Checking Your SmarTrip Balance Through the Web
The SmarTrip card, issued by the Washington Metro Transit Authority, is a contactless, chip-based debit card for public transit riders. Users tap it on readers to board buses, rails, or subways. Because it works like a debit card, a positive balance must be maintained. Riders can manage their SmarTrip account online by creating or logging into an account, then viewing the balance and usage history. Family members' cards can be combined under one account.
By Taylor Mitchell
Getting around Washington is easier with the SmarTrip card.
The Washington Metro Transit Authority issues a contactless card intended for regular public transportation riders. Known as SmarTrip, the card carries an embedded computer chip. This chip serves two purposes: it tracks the funds remaining in the SmarTrip account and eliminates the need to swipe magnetic strips. To use it, a rider simply taps the card on designated readers to board a bus, rail, or subway. Since SmarTrip functions as a debit card rather than a credit card, the cardholder must keep a positive balance for the card to remain valid.
Accessing the Transit Authority Website
Go to the Washington Area Transit Authority's website. A navigation bar appears at the top of the homepage. Select the fares option, which opens a drop-down menu. From there, choose SmarTrip. This will load a new page.
Setting Up or Signing In to Your Account
On the new page, select "Managing Your SmarTrip Account," then click "Create a SmarTrip Account." If you already have an account, just click "Log in to Your Account." To register, you will need to provide your name, address, birthday, email address, and phone number, along with the serial number found on the back of your SmarTrip card. To sign in, enter your user name and password.
Viewing Your Balance and Usage History
Click on the balance to see how much money remains on the card. This screen also lets you view the card's usage history.
