Once you have your Charlie Card, you’ll use it at the fare boxes when boarding the bus.

Using the Fare Box

On-Board Fare Boxes

Using cards and tickets when boarding vehicles is simple and takes just a few seconds. After loading a card with value at a fare vending machine or retail sales terminal, simply enter a bus and either insert a Ticket into the ticket entry slot or ‘tap’ your Charlie Card to the orange box/card target.

If you are using a Charlie Card, the farebox will automatically deduct the appropriate amount of value from your card-just tap your card and enter the vehicle.

Using the Fare Box

Using the Fare Box

The Charlie Card is a quick, convenient and secure way to use WRTA fixed-route services.

Farebox Orientation

The Card Target

On-Board Fare Box Card Target

The orange card target is located in the lower right corner. Tap your Charlie Card on the orange card target to pay a fare.

The Display Screen

On-Board Fare Box Display Screen

The screen located in the upper portion of the farebox will give information on your Charlie Card (such as the card balance).

The Bill Insert

On-Board Fare Box Bill Insert

The bill slot is located at the lower left of the farebox. It will accept $1, $5, $10 or $20 bills. To speed up the boarding process, please be sure the bills being inserted are free of wrinkles or bends since it can be difficult for the farebox to read wrinkled or bent bills.

The Coin Slot

On-Board Fare Box Coin Slot

The coin slot is located directly below the bill slot. It will accept nickels, dimes, quarters and silver dollars.

Paying Your Fare Using the Farebox

Paying Your Fare Using Your Charlie Card

Paying Your Fare Using Your Charlie Card

To pay your fare using your Charlie Card, simply tap the Charlie Card to the orange card target. One beep will indicate that the correct fare has been deducted from your Charlie Card. Three quick beeps will indicate that either the machine was unable to properly read your card or you don’t have enough stored value on your card to pay the fare.

Paying Your Fare Using Bills or Coins

Paying with Bills

Paying with Coins

To pay your fare with cash, simply insert the appropriate fare into the farebox using the bill or coin slots. One beep will indicate that you have paid the correct amount. Three quick beeps will indicate either a bill or coin has been rejected. If you have paid more than the required fare, in an amount of $1.50 or more, a stored value Change Ticket will be issued via the ticket slot. Be aware, no Change Ticket can be issued for amounts less than $1.50.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PAYING YOUR FARE?
Read the complete Charlie/Fare FAQ, or contact Customer Support at 508.453.3462.