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ORCA Card Updates: Open Payments and New pass Options Coming in 2026
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More fare payment options are coming to ORCA in 2026, largely driven by the FIFA World Cup being hosted in Seattle next summer. Public pilot programs testing Open Payments and a 3-day PugetPass are planned for 2026,offering riders increased adaptability in how they pay their fares.The last significant ORCA updates occurred in 2024 when Sound Transit and ORCA announced the ability to add ORCA cards to the Google Wallet app on Android phones. Open Payments will allow users of
What is ORCA?
ORCA (One Regional Card for All) is the Puget Sound region’s regional fare card. It’s used on most public transportation in the area,including buses,light rail,commuter rail,and ferries. Currently, ORCA is available as a physical card, or digitally through the Google Wallet app for Android users. The system is managed by Sound Transit.
Understanding Open Payments
Open Payments represents a significant shift in how transit fares can be paid. Rather of relying solely on a physical card or app-based card, Open Payments allows riders to use a contactless credit or debit card, or a mobile wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), directly at the fare reader. this “tap-and-go” method simplifies the payment process and eliminates the need to load value onto a separate ORCA card.
How Open Payments Will Work in Puget Sound
the upcoming pilot program will test the feasibility of Open Payments across the region’s various transit agencies. Here’s what riders can expect:
- Contactless Payment: Riders will tap a contactless credit, debit, or mobile wallet at ORCA readers.
- Fare Calculation: The system will automatically calculate the correct fare based on the rider’s trip.
- Account management: While not instantly available, future phases may include online account management for tracking trips and fares.
Introducing the 3-Day PugetPass
Alongside Open Payments, ORCA is piloting a 3-day PugetPass. This new pass option caters to visitors and infrequent riders who don’t need a monthly pass but want a convenient and cost-effective way to use transit for a limited time.The 3-day PugetPass will provide unlimited rides on participating transit agencies for a period of three consecutive days.
Benefits of the 3-Day PugetPass
- Convenience: Simplifies fare payment for short-term visitors.
- Cost Savings: Offers a potentially cheaper option than paying individual fares for multiple trips.
- Tourism Support: Encourages visitors to utilize public transit during the FIFA World Cup and beyond.
What about Apple Wallet?
Currently, ORCA is only available digitally through Google Wallet. There have been no official announcements regarding availability on Apple Wallet.Sound Transit continues to evaluate options for expanding digital ORCA access to other platforms.
Key Takeaways
- ORCA is adding Open Payments and a 3-day PugetPass in 2026.
- Open Payments allows riders to use contactless credit/debit cards or mobile wallets directly at fare readers.
- The 3-day PugetPass offers unlimited rides for three consecutive days.
- ORCA is currently available on Google Wallet, but not Apple Wallet.
These updates to the ORCA system represent a significant step towards modernizing fare payment in the Puget Sound region. The introduction of Open Payments and the
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