Getting around Boston just got a little simpler.
Starting Sept. 1, the MBTA launched a six-month fare pilot changing how transfers work across eligible bus, subway and ferry service.
1. You can now get unlimited transfers for two hours
Within two hours of your first tap, you can transfer between eligible MBTA buses, subway service and ferries as many times as needed.
Instead of paying a separate full fare each time, you pay only the highest applicable fare used during that two-hour window.
The benefit depends on using an eligible payment method. Cash and stored-value CharlieTickets do not qualify for the new transfer benefit.
2. Keep using the same payment method
This part matters.
If you start with a CharlieCard, keep using that same CharlieCard on services that accept it.
If you tap with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a contactless bank card, use that same payment method for every eligible transfer.
Switching cards, phones or payment methods can stop the system from recognizing the rides as part of the same transfer window.
One exception to know: CharlieCards are not accepted on MBTA ferries. If your trip includes a ferry, check which payment method works across the full journey before you travel.
3. An old CharlieCard might need a quick reload
If your CharlieCard has gone more than a year without value being added, the new transfer benefit may not activate correctly right away.
The MBTA says loading any amount of money onto the card at a fare vending machine should activate the benefit.
4. Express buses now cost $1.70
Express bus fares dropped from $4.25 to $1.70, matching the standard local bus fare during the pilot.
Silver Line fares did not change.
SL1, SL2 and SL3 continue to use the subway fare, while SL4 and SL5 use the local bus fare.
5. Your CharlieCard and the newer tap reader are different
The newer contactless readers accept bank cards, phones and compatible digital wallets.
A regular CharlieCard still uses the CharlieCard fare target, so tapping it on the contactless bank-card reader will not work.
Look for the correct reader before tapping.
One thing college students should know
College students are not eligible for the MBTA Student CharlieCard Program.
That program is for students at participating middle and high schools.
College students may instead have access to discounted Semester Passes or additional transit benefits through their university.
Check your school’s transportation or student-services page before paying full fare all semester.
The Bzz take
For everyday riders, the biggest change is the new two-hour transfer window.
Use the same eligible payment method throughout the trip and some commutes that previously required multiple fares may now cost less.
Just remember that this is currently a six-month pilot, so the MBTA could change or extend the rules after the trial period.
Information checked Sept. 6, 2026. MBTA fares, transfer rules and pilot conditions can change, so check current MBTA guidance before traveling.
