A Presto card is a contactless card used as a payment method on public transportation systems in Ontario. This reloadable card allows commuters to pay for their fares electronically by tapping the card on specific card readers when getting on and off transit or when passing through fare gates at stations.

Key Points

Presto Card is used by Go Station and TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) for trains, buses, street cars, etc. It is used outside of Toronto, as well, in cities like Hamilton and Ottawa.

Your card can be purchased, managed and loaded online.

In this post, you will learn the ins and outs of the Presto Card, Toronto’s all in one commuter pass. It will help you get around the city, but also use Go Transit to explore other areas of Ontario, like Hamilton, Niagara, Barrie and more.

Why do you need a Presto Card?

The Presto card helps you commute and travel throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) and beyond. This includes the TTC buses, streetcars, and subways, as well as, GO Transit trains and UP Express (Toronto Union Station to Toronto Pearson Airport). With a Presto card, you can easily transfer between these systems without needing separate tickets or tokens.

This system allows for fare integration between different transit agencies. This means that if you use multiple transit services during your journey, such as taking a TTC subway and then transferring to a GO train, the fare is calculated automatically based on the distance traveled. You are then charged accordingly. It simplifies the payment process for you and ensures that you pay the correct fare for your trip!

Photo of a Presto Card. — Credit: Metrolinx

Having a Presto card eliminates the need to carry cash or tokens for fare payment. You can simply tap your Presto card on the card readers located at the entrance and exit of transit vehicles or stations. This makes the boarding process faster and more efficient.

Presto cardholders may be eligible for fare discounts and benefits, depending on the transit system they are using. For example, with a Presto card, you can take advantage of TTC’s discounted fares for older people, students, and children if you are eligible to do so.

You can also manage your card balance, view transaction history if you set up your card online! Here, you will also be able to set up autoload that will automatically add funds to your card when the balance is low. It provides convenience and control over your transit payments.

To get a Presto card in Toronto, you can follow these steps:

Start by finding a nearby location that offers Presto card services. These outlets include Gateway Newstands, Shoppers Drug Mart, and select TTC subway stations. Check the Presto website for the most up-to-date list of locations.

Request a Card

If there is no vending machine, approach the customer service counter and request a Presto card. Let them know that you want to purchase a new card. There is an initial cost of $6. You’ll need to pay this amount to purchase the card. Some outlets may accept different payment methods, so be prepared to pay in cash, debit, or credit card.

Load funds onto the Card

After obtaining the card, you’ll need to load funds onto it to use it for transit. You can load funds online through the Presto website, by using the Presto app, or at self-serve machines available at TTC subway stations and other locations.

Photo of a go train that uses the presto card. — Credit: John McArthur

Register your Presto Card (Optional)

You can register your card online on their website. By doing so, you can manage your card balance, view transaction history, and protect your funds in case of card loss or theft.

Use your Card

Once you’ve loaded funds onto your Presto card, you can use it to pay for fares on buses, streetcars, and subways in certain areas (check your local transit system website to make sure they use Presto before travelling), as well as GO Transit trains and UP Express that will take you from downtown Toronto to Pearson Airport. Simply tap your card on the green readers when boarding and exiting.

The Presto card aims to provide a convenient, seamless, and integrated fare payment system for public transportation users in Ontario. Remember to keep your Presto card with you whenever you use public transit in Toronto and ensure you have sufficient funds loaded to cover your fares.

Use your Presto Card to take the TTC to the Bata Shoe Museum for a day out in Toronto. Learn more about Thomas Bata and the Museum here.