Can I put Oyster card on iPhone?

Ditch the Plastic: Adding Your Oyster Card to iPhone Wallet (And What to Know)

For years, London commuters relied on the familiar swipe of the Oyster card. But times are changing, and the convenience of digital payments has finally caught up with this iconic travel pass. The question many Londoners (and visitors) now ask is: can I put my Oyster card on my iPhone? The answer, thankfully, is a resounding yes – but with a crucial caveat.

You can’t directly add an existing physical Oyster card to Apple Wallet. There’s no magic “tap and add” function. Instead, the digital integration involves adding your Oyster account to Apple Wallet, not the plastic card itself. This means you’ll need to ensure your Oyster card is registered to an online account.

If you haven’t already, you’ll need to register your Oyster card online through Transport for London’s (TfL) website. This involves creating an account and linking your physical Oyster card to it. Once this is complete, you’re ready to add your Oyster account to your iPhone.

Here’s how to add your Oyster account to Apple Wallet:

1. Ensure your Oyster card is registered: Visit the TfL website and follow the instructions to register your Oyster card. This is crucial; without registration, you won’t be able to add it to Apple Wallet.

2. Open the Wallet app: Locate the Wallet app on your iPhone.

3. Add a transit card: Look for the option to add a transit card or travel pass. The exact wording might vary slightly depending on your iOS version.

4. Select Oyster: Choose Oyster from the list of available transit options.

5. Sign in: You’ll be prompted to sign in to your registered TfL account. Use the same credentials you used to register your Oyster card.

6. Select your Oyster card: If you have multiple registered Oyster cards, you’ll need to choose the one you wish to add to Wallet.

7. Verify and Add: Follow any remaining on-screen instructions to verify your account and add your Oyster card to Apple Wallet.

Once added, you can use your iPhone to pay for your journeys on the London Underground, buses, and other participating transport services, just as you would with your physical Oyster card. However, remember that your physical Oyster card will still work independently. You can use either your phone or your physical card interchangeably.

While adding your Oyster account to Apple Wallet offers a streamlined and more convenient commuting experience, it’s essential to remember the initial registration step. Without it, the digital integration simply won’t work. So, register your Oyster card, download the app, and enjoy the seamless travel experience Apple Wallet offers.