How to Use Your Compass Card
Tapping in validates you fare. On buses, tap in when you board at the start of your journey or when transferring. When you tap in on the bus, the system charges a one-zone fare.
On the SkyTrain, SeaBus and West Coast Express, tap in when you enter the station and tap out when you exit or at key transfer points. Tapping reserves the fare for a three-zone trip, or a full-distance trip in the case of West Coast Express.
When you tap out, the system calculates the fare zones you've travelled and charges you the correct fare. This applies to all products, including Monthly Passes.
looking for more information on Compass? Check out our list of Frequently Asked Questions on compasscard.ca
How to Tap
-
Remove the card from your wallet to avoid interference from other RFID cards.
-
Hold it flat against the card reader until you hear a beep and see a check mark to proceed.
The card reader will indicate the fare deducted and the remaining balance, or date the pass expires.
Where to Tap
-
On buses
Tap in at the card readers located near the bus doors when boarding. You don't need to tap out when exiting.
-
SkyTrain and SeaBus
Tap in and out at the fare gates when entering and exiting–even if the gates are open.
-
West Coast Express*
Tap in and out at the validators when entering and exiting.
*The only exception is in the morning at Waterfront Station, when you don't need to tap at the concourse validators.
What's the minimum amount of Stored Value required to start a journey?
When you use Stored Value on buses, Skytrain service or the Seabus, Compass allows you to complete a single journey with as little as $0.01 on your card by giving you a negative card balance.
For West Coast Express customers, the minimum Stored Value amount is $4.50 due to fare structures and related considerations.
Why go negative? In situations where your balance is low, you’ll have the security of being able to make a single trip. Just remember to top up your card with Stored Value before you start your next trip.
