Can you pay for the TTC with Apple Pay?

Can You Tap Your iPhone to Ride the Toronto Subway? Understanding Apple Pay on the TTC

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), responsible for keeping Canada’s largest city moving, has undergone significant modernization in recent years, particularly in how riders pay for their journeys. With the rise of contactless payment methods like Apple Pay, many Torontonians and visitors alike are wondering: Can you use Apple Pay to ride the TTC?

The short answer is yes, but with a crucial condition.

The TTC rolled out its PRESTO system to facilitate fare payments. This system uses reloadable PRESTO cards and allows for tapping onto fare readers at subway stations, streetcars, and buses. However, the TTC doesn’t directly accept Apple Pay as a standalone payment method in the traditional sense (like tapping your phone directly at the gate and paying as you go).

Here’s how Apple Pay works with the TTC’s PRESTO system:

• Add your PRESTO card to your Apple Wallet: The key is to add your physical PRESTO card to your Apple Wallet. This digital version of your PRESTO card is then accessible through Apple Pay.
• Tap your iPhone or Apple Watch: Once added, you can tap your iPhone or Apple Watch at the PRESTO readers, just like you would with a physical PRESTO card. The fare will be deducted from the balance on your digital PRESTO card.
• Reload your PRESTO card via Apple Pay: You can also use Apple Pay to reload your digital PRESTO card directly through the PRESTO app or the Apple Wallet. This provides a convenient way to keep your card topped up and avoid the need to visit a physical reload location.

Why doesn’t the TTC accept Apple Pay directly?

The decision to integrate with PRESTO, rather than directly accept contactless credit and debit cards, was driven by a few factors:

• Legacy infrastructure: The PRESTO system was implemented before widespread adoption of mobile payment technology. Completely replacing it would be a costly and time-consuming undertaking.
• Fair fare calculations: PRESTO allows for complex fare calculations based on distance traveled, transfers, and discounts. Implementing these directly with credit/debit cards would require significant software updates and integration.
• Data collection and management: PRESTO enables the TTC to collect valuable data about ridership patterns, which is crucial for planning service improvements.

Troubleshooting PRESTO and Apple Pay:

Even with this integration, occasional issues can arise. If you experience problems using your digital PRESTO card with Apple Pay, consider the following:

• Ensure your PRESTO card is active and has sufficient balance: This seems obvious, but it’s the most common cause of failure.
• Check for updates: Make sure your iPhone’s operating system, the PRESTO app, and your Apple Wallet are all up to date.
• Restart your device: A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches.
• Contact PRESTO customer service: If the problem persists, reach out to PRESTO’s customer service for assistance.

In conclusion:

While you can’t directly tap your iPhone with Apple Pay to pay for a TTC ride as you might do at a store, the integration of PRESTO with Apple Wallet provides a convenient and modern way to manage your TTC fares. By adding your PRESTO card to Apple Pay, you can enjoy the ease of contactless payments and avoid the need to carry a physical card. So, next time you hop on the subway, streetcar, or bus in Toronto, remember to utilize the power of your iPhone and Apple Pay to streamline your commute.