Android phones can now be used as TAP cards on L.A. Metro

Regional TAP transit smartcards on Android phones can now be used across the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (L.A. Metro).

The TAP app is a safe and contactless way to pay transit fare on L.A. Metro and 25 additional TAP transit agencies in L.A. County. The Android release follows the iPhone and Apple Watch launch last September.

"We have to eliminate barriers between our transportation system and our essential workers, front line heroes, hard-hit households and Angelenos from every zip code. This is always important, but even more critical in this current crisis," said Los Angeles Mayor and L.A. Metro Board Chair Eric Garcetti. "Extending the new mobile TAP app to Android phones will put the power to pay fares in the hands of more riders — tapping into our city’s innovative spirit to bring greater safety, equity, sustainability and convenience to riders, drivers, transit operators and anyone boarding our buses and trains."

"In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the TAP app on Android is a great option for essential workers, honors social distancing with no bus operator interaction needed by the rider and works on all TAP participating agencies, whether riders board at the front or at rear doors," said L.A. Metro CEO Phillip A. Washington.

Users can now pay their fare with their Android phone, iPhone or Apple Watch for safe and easy contactless fare payment. There is no need to use Face ID, Touch ID or wake the device. Riders can also download the TAP app to purchase reduced fare and low income passes as well as stored value options and Metro Bike Share. Fare is available immediately after purchase on the phone. Download the TAP LA app on Google Play or the App Store.

L.A. Metro worked with Cubic Transportation Systems, Inc. to produce this state-of-the-art mobile application, which brings together virtual fare payment, TAP card management, trip-finding, multimodal program information and more, in one easy-to-use app.