Distance-based pricing, SmarTrip card, visitor passes and everything you need to pay for the DC Metro in 2025.
Metro fares are distance-based and time-of-day based. The farther and the more "peak" your trip, the higher the fare.
| Fare Type | Minimum | Maximum | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak — SmarTrip | $2.25 | $6.75 | Weekday 5–9:30 AM & 3–7 PM |
| Off-Peak — SmarTrip | $2.00 | $3.85 | All other times |
| Peak — Tap to Pay (card/phone) | $2.25 | $6.75 | Same as SmarTrip peak |
| Off-Peak — Tap to Pay | $2.00 | $3.85 | Same as SmarTrip off-peak |
| Reduced — Senior (65+) | $1.00 | $1.90 | Any time with valid ID |
| Reduced — Persons with Disabilities | $1.00 | $1.90 | Any time with valid ID |
| Children under 5 | Free | Free | Always (max 2 per fare-paying adult) |
| Metro Lift (SNAP recipients) | 50% off | 50% off | Any time with enrollment |
Park & Ride lots are at most end-of-line and suburban stations. The largest lots are at Shady Grove, Glenmont, Franconia-Springfield, Branch Avenue, Vienna, and Largo Town Center. All lots require a SmarTrip card for payment — credit/debit cards are not accepted at parking kiosks.
The Metro accepts several payment methods at every faregate. Here's how each one works.
The traditional reloadable card. Best for regular riders and those who need parking. Load value at kiosks or the DC SmarTrip app.
RecommendedTap your phone or smartwatch at the faregate. Works exactly like SmarTrip — same price, no physical card needed. Contactless only.
Easiest for visitorsTap any contactless Visa, Mastercard, Amex, or Discover card directly at the faregate. Same fares as SmarTrip. No setup required.
No app neededSold at station kiosks. 1-day ($15), 3-day ($28) or 7-day ($40) unlimited passes. Best when making multiple trips per day.
Great for touristsThe most common questions about DC Metro fares, SmarTrip cards, and how to avoid overpaying.
Metro charges based on the distance you travel. Short trips (1–3 stations) cost around $2.00–$2.50. Longer trips crossing into the suburbs can cost $4–$6.75 at peak hours. The fare is calculated when you tap out at the exit faregate — always tap both in and out or you'll be charged the maximum fare.
If you forget to tap out, you'll be charged the maximum fare for your line from your entry station. Always tap your card or phone at both entry and exit faregates. If you're charged incorrectly, you can request a refund through WMATA's online portal within 7 days.
No — SmarTrip cards and contactless payments are for one person at a time. Each rider needs their own payment method. However, children under 5 ride free (up to 2 per fare-paying adult) and do not need a card.
WMATA currently offers reduced fares for seniors (65+) and persons with disabilities. There is no general student or military discount. Some federal agencies offer transit benefits (SmartBenefits) to employees. Check with your employer or agency for eligibility.
Metro Lift is a WMATA program offering 50% discounted fares to SNAP (food stamps) recipients in the DC region. Eligible riders must enroll through their local SNAP office to get a reduced-fare SmarTrip card. Learn more at wmata.com/fares/metro-lift.
No — Metro does not charge premium fares during special events like the Fourth of July, Nationals games, or the Cherry Blossom Festival. Regular peak and off-peak fares apply regardless of event crowding. Check the schedule for extended service hours during major events.
Got your fares figured out? Now check the schedule and view the map to find the fastest route to your destination.