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Does Rhode Island Public Transit Authority Take Apple Pay?
May 14, 2025

Quick Answer
No, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority does not accept Apple Pay. Passengers must use the Wave smart fare system or exact cash for fare payments.
Alternative Payment Methods Accepted at Rhode Island Public Transit Authority
RIPTA offers a variety of payment methods to accommodate different passenger preferences.
- Cash: Exact change is required as drivers cannot provide change.
- Wave Smart Fare System: Includes the Wave Smart Card and Wave Mobile App for fare payment.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Can be used to load funds onto the Wave smart card or mobile app, but not accepted directly on board.
- Contactless Payments (NFC): Supported through the Wave smart card and mobile app, but not via Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- Reduced Fare Programs: Available for qualifying low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities, including no-cost travel and half-fare boarding during off-peak hours.
Rhode Island Public Transit Authority Online Payment Options
RIPTA offers several convenient online payment options for passengers:
- Wave Smart Card: A reloadable card managed online for easy fare payments.
- Wave Mobile App: Pay fares via smartphone with the app available for Android and iOS.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Load funds onto Wave accounts using credit or debit cards online.
- Contactless Payments (NFC): Use the Wave smart card or mobile app for contactless fare payments.
- Online Fund Loading: Add funds to Wave accounts through RIPTA's website or participating retailers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Apple Pay to pay for fares on RIPTA buses?
No, RIPTA does not accept Apple Pay directly for fare payments. Use the Wave smart card or mobile app instead.
Can I use Apple Pay to load funds onto my Wave smart card or mobile app?
No, Apple Pay cannot be used to load funds onto the Wave smart card or mobile app. Use a credit/debit card or cash at participating locations instead.
Can I use Apple Pay to pay for fares on RIPTA buses?
No, RIPTA does not accept Apple Pay directly for fare payments. Use the Wave smart card or mobile app instead.
Can I use Apple Pay to load funds onto my Wave smart card or mobile app?
No, Apple Pay cannot be used to load funds onto the Wave smart card or mobile app. Use a credit/debit card or cash at participating locations instead.
Does RIPTA plan to accept Apple Pay in the future?
There is no information available about RIPTA planning to accept Apple Pay in the future. Check their website for updates.
Can I use Apple Pay to pay for fares on RIPTA buses?
No, RIPTA does not accept Apple Pay directly for fare payments. Use the Wave smart card or mobile app instead.
Can I use Apple Pay to load funds onto my Wave smart card or mobile app?
No, Apple Pay cannot be used to load funds onto the Wave smart card or mobile app. Use a credit/debit card or cash at participating locations instead.
Does RIPTA plan to accept Apple Pay in the future?
There is no information available about RIPTA planning to accept Apple Pay in the future. Check their website for updates.
Are there any contactless payment options available on RIPTA?
Yes, RIPTA's Wave system supports contactless payments through the Wave smart card and mobile app, but not through Apple Pay or Google Pay.
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