The MTA announced earlier this week that the sale of the iconic yellow MetroCards will conclude at the end of 2025, which means that OMNY is set to become the ONLY way to access NYC’s subways, buses, and public transportation.
“One Metro New York” or OMNY, is the city’s current contactless payment system that lets you quickly tap and go through the turnstiles instead of swiping an ordinary MetroCard.
Since being introduced back in 2019, it’s lived in unison with traditional MetroCards as a way to access transportation, but soon enough it will be the only way.
We’re answering all of your questions about OMNY, how to get a physical card if you wish, and what it means for you as an NYC local.
Remind me, when do MetroCard sales end?
Physical MetroCards will stop being sold on December 31, 2025 at all locations and affiliated sales locations won’t be able to sell any cards starting in the fall of 2025.
Commuters will still be able to use MetroCards into early 2026 until an official use expiration date is announced.
Where to buy an OMNY card
A main goal of the OMNY project is to promote the contactless-style of transaction, that is, using your smart phone or credit card in a tap-to-go manner. However, there will in fact be physical OMNY cards available if you wish to use a physical card similar to the MetroCard.
OMNY cards are available all throughout NYC right now, most popularly found at many local subway stations. Most stations (or at least those with high foot traffic) have vending machines available where you can purchase an OMNY card.
Cards are also available at various partnered retail locations around NYC, online, and at the Mobile Sales Van stations that pop-up around the city.
Each card costs $5 initially, which can then be loaded up with whatever balance you wish (rides remain $2.90).
Can I still use my card or phone to tap?
Yes! You can still tap your smartphone, smartwatch, or contactless chip credit or debit card to use the OMNY system. The OMNY physical card is just another alternative for MetroCard users who prefer to use a physical card of payment.
OMNY cards also use a tap feature to pay, which means the days of swiping are about to be over.
The balance on your OMNY card can be reloaded either at a vending machine or online. If you use a smartphone, smartwatch, or contactless chip credit or debit card, you won’t be able to keep track of the fare unless you look at your credit card statement or OMNY account online.
Where exactly can I use OMNY?
OMNY is accepted on MTA buses, subways, Staten Island Railway, Roosevelt Island Tram, Hudson Rail Link, and AirTrain-Howard Beach and AirTrain-Jamaica stations.
Are reduced fares and elderly discounts carrying over to OMNY?
Yes! Reduce-Fare MetroCard users are able to switch over to Reduce-Fare OMNY cards. Qualifying participants in the reduced fare program (65+ y/o or disabled) should have already received a Reduced-Fare OMNY card in the mail if you haven’t switched to using a bank card or mobile phone.
If you haven’t received your Reduced-Fare OMNY card, reach out to 551. New riders can sign up for the program here.