StarMetro fixed route buses have a new fare collection system to streamline and enhance payment options for customers. We have already replaced our old fareboxes aboard StarMetro’s buses with new high-tech fareboxes from Genfare, a national leader in public transportation equipment.

This is the first step in a larger fare system upgrade, which will allow customers more flexibility and options. Later this fall, when all upgraded systems are in place, the new farebox will be able to accept rechargeable smart cards, mag stripe cards, barcodes for mobile tickets purchased through apps and cash.

This is an exciting addition to our services and StarMetro appreciates your patience through the transition process.

Please note the following regarding passes:

• New fare collection machines on fixed route buses are now in use.
• The new machines do not take OLD 7-day/31-day passes issued before Saturday, Sept 26th.
• New passes are sold at the Customer Operations booth at CK Steele.
• You may trade in your old passes for new passes at the booth if there is more than half left to use.
• The new passes look the same as the old cards - just reprogrammed. Dates on the back of the cards will verify use.
• StarMetro will accept old cards from 9/29-10/29 if they have valid dates on the back.
• Please tell your bus operator if you are using an old card and they can manually enter your ride.
• All passes activate with their first use in the Farebox.

• To activate, insert your pass into the trim slot on the Farebox and it will be stamped with activation and expiration date.
• From then on, you may swipe your pass until it has expired.

Please note the following regarding cash purchases:

• New fareboxes sell single trip and all-day passes (including reduced) and issue transfer tickets.
• All passes are marked with expiration and alert the farebox if your pass is invalid
• New fareboxes issue "change cards" for up to $20.
• Change cards can only be used to purchase StarMetro fare on buses or at customer booth.
• Change cards are not redeemable for cash nor can be replaced if damaged.