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Identification Documents
PRESTO Card – Your Toronto Transit Card
The PRESTO Card is a convenient and efficient way to pay for rides on TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) buses, streetcars, subway trains, GO Train, UP Express, and more. This contactless smart card simplifies traveling in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). Here’s how to use the PRESTO Card effectively:
- Getting a PRESTO Card If you don’t have a PRESTO card, you can purchase one at various locations. Find your nearest option at a PRESTO customer service location, any GO Train station, or an authorized retail store. Use the PRESTO Retail Locator to assist you.
- Adding Money to Your Card Once you have your PRESTO card, it’s essential to load funds onto it. You can easily add money online, visit a PRESTO customer service location, or use a self-service machine available at most GO Train stations.
- Activating and Registering Your Card (Optional) While registering your card isn’t required, it is a smart step for protecting your balance in case your card is lost or stolen. You can register your PRESTO card on the official PRESTO website.
- Tapping On at the Station Before boarding the GO Train, ensure your PRESTO card has sufficient funds. At the GO Train station, locate the card reader near the fare gates. Simply hold your PRESTO card against the reader. When you hear a chime and see a green light, it indicates a successful tap. The fare will be deducted from your card balance, and you can board the train.
- Boarding the GO Train Check the schedule for the next GO Train at the station. Wait for your train to arrive and board through the designated doors. Keep your PRESTO card handy, as you may need it for inspection.
- Tapping Off at Your Destination Upon reaching your destination, find the PRESTO card reader again near the fare gates. Tap your PRESTO card on the reader to complete your trip. The fare will be calculated based on the distance traveled, and the appropriate amount will be deducted from your balance.
Public Transit
Using Toronto public transit is a straightforward and efficient way to navigate the city. The system encompasses various modes of transportation, including buses, streetcars (often referred to as trams), and the subway, all integrated under the Toronto City Transit system. For those traveling longer distances, the GO Train offers an excellent option to connect to surrounding regions. When using Toronto tram tickets, ensure you have a valid fare before boarding; you can purchase these at vending machines or online. With a PRESTO Card, you can easily tap on and off across all transit options, making it convenient to switch between buses, streetcars, and the subway. Familiarizing yourself with the Toronto public transit system will help you travel efficiently and explore everything the city has to offer.
Additional Tips:
- Always check the GO Train schedule before you travel to avoid unexpected delays.
- If you travel frequently, consider getting a monthly pass or using the Autoload feature to automatically add money to your card when it runs low.
- You can manage your PRESTO card, check your transaction history, and perform other tasks by creating an online account on the official PRESTO website.
For more assistance, visit the official PRESTO website to learn everything you need about GO Train tickets, UP Express, and other transit services in Toronto.