This is an updated repost of a story first published June 9, 2021. Wish you’d heard this news back then? Get on top of it: Subscribe to our Daily Newsletter.
Check Your Wallet –your SmarTrip Card could be obsolete as of March 1, 2022.
WMATA is upgrading the faregates systemwide to be faster, more efficient and more reliable. SmarTrip cards issued prior to 2012 have old chip technology and they will no longer work with that new system.
You can keep put your balance on a new card a few different ways, though.
Mail in your SmarTrip card to have the balance transferred to a new card.
They’ll send a new card within 10 business days and put $5 on it to use in the Metro system. Download the form here to get started.
If you are actively using the Metro system:
Transfer your balance to an eligible SmarTrip card or request a new card here.
Go In Person: You can replace your card in-person at the Metro Sales Office at Metro Center Station. The Metro Sales Office is open Tuesday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Transfer balance to another (newer) card: If you have taken Metrobus or Metrorail in the last 7 days (the card needs to have been tapped), you can go to the online replacement page to transfer your balance to another SmarTrip card.
If you currently have SmartBenefits on your SmarTrip card:
SmartBenefits participants cannot transfer balances online right now. Login to your SmarTrip account, select your card and click Update Card Information to confirm your email address so that you’ll get notified when you can transfer your balance online.
Still have questions? For more info, visit www.wmata.com/fares/smartrip/gocard-replacement or call SmarTrip customer service: 1-888-SMARTRIP (1-888-762-7874).
