If you ride transit in Toronto or across the GTA, you will hear about the PRESTO card right away. It is the reloadable fare card used on the TTC, GO Transit, UP Express and many other transit systems in the region. Newcomers, students and visitors often wonder whether they need one, where to buy it and how it compares with simply tapping a credit card. This guide answers those questions.

What is a PRESTO card?

PRESTO is an electronic fare card. You load money (or a pass, depending on the agency) onto the card, then tap it on a card reader when you board a bus or streetcar, or enter a subway station. The fare is deducted automatically. One card works across multiple transit agencies in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area and Ottawa.

Where you can use it

• TTC subways, buses and streetcars in Toronto
• GO Transit trains and buses
• UP Express to and from Pearson Airport
• Many regional systems in the GTA, such as those serving Mississauga, Brampton, York Region, Durham and Hamilton

Where to get a PRESTO card

You can usually get one online, at fare vending machines in TTC stations, at GO stations and at some retail locations, including participating Shoppers Drug Mart stores. There may be a one-time fee for the card itself. Keep the card number: registering the card online lets you protect your balance if it is lost or stolen.

Loading money onto your card

How to tap on and off

• TTC: tap once when you board a bus or streetcar, or at the subway fare gates. You do not tap off on the TTC.
• GO Transit: tap on before boarding and tap off when you get off, because fares are based on distance. Forgetting to tap off can result in a higher default fare.
• UP Express: tap on and off at the stations.

Transfers

On the TTC, paying with PRESTO generally includes a transfer window that lets you continue your trip in any direction within a set time. Some transfers between TTC and GO or regional transit may also offer discounts. Check the latest transfer rules before relying on them for long trips.

Discounts for students, youth and seniors

Reduced fares are available for eligible groups such as children, youth, post-secondary students and seniors, but you usually need to set the correct fare type (concession) on your card. Without it, you pay the adult fare. Some discounts require proof of eligibility, like a student ID.

PRESTO card or tap with a credit card?

You can also pay on many systems by tapping a credit card, debit card or phone wallet directly on PRESTO readers. Here is how the two options compare:

• Tapping a bank card or phone: no card to buy, ideal for visitors and occasional riders.
• PRESTO card: needed for concession discounts and monthly passes, and useful if you want to keep transit spending separate.

Use the same card or device each time you tap during a trip so the system recognizes transfers.

Practical tips for winter riders

• Set up autoload so you never get stuck with a low balance on a cold morning.
• Register your card in case it gets lost in the snow or on a bus.
• Leave extra travel time during storms; our Toronto snow clearing guide explains how the city handles winter streets.
• Heading to the airport? Compare all options in getting to and from Toronto Pearson.

Transit is also the easiest way to reach many free and low-cost activities. Pair it with your Toronto Public Library card for museum passes, or ride to one of the city’s outdoor skating rinks this winter.

FAQ: PRESTO card in Toronto

Do I need a PRESTO card to ride the TTC?

Not necessarily. You can often tap a credit card, debit card or phone instead. A PRESTO card is needed for concession fares and some passes.

Can two people use the same PRESTO card?

On some systems you can pay for more than one rider, but rules vary by agency. Each rider having their own card is the simplest option.

What happens if I forget to tap off on GO?

You may be charged a higher default fare. Tap off at the end of every GO trip.

How do I check my balance?

Use the PRESTO website or app, or check at a station vending machine or reader.