Commuters traveling between New York and New Jersey can snag a major transit perk this week as the PATH officially ramps up its new TAPP system.
The Port Authority is celebrating the rollout of its tap-to-pay technology by handing out free TAPP cards at some of the busiest stations in the system to help everyone transition away from the aging MetroCard.
Usually, these reloadable physical cards come with a $5 purchase fee, but transit officials are waiving that cost for early birds who show up during the morning rush.
It is all part of a “generational breakthrough” for the 117-year-old rail system, which is finally moving toward a cloud-based, contactless future.
Where and when to get your free TAPP card
You will need to set your alarm a little earlier if you want to grab one of the freebies. The giveaways are happening from 7 AM to 9 AM on the following days:
- Tuesday, March 3: Journal Square Station
- Wednesday, March 4: 33rd Street Station
- Thursday, March 5: World Trade Center Station
Riders can simply look for PATH passenger information agents at these stations during the two-hour window to claim their card.
You can find the full schedule and official updates on the Port Authority’s fares page.
What exactly is the TAPP card?
TAPP stands for Total Access PATH Payment.
Similar to the MTA’s OMNY system, it allows you to tap a physical card, a contactless credit card, or your phone to get through the turnstiles instantly.
While many of us have already been tapping our phones to get onto the PATH, this new physical card is the go-to option for anyone who prefers to pay with cash at vending machines or just wants a dedicated transit card in their wallet.
Unlike the older SmartLink cards, TAPP data is stored in the cloud.
This means if you reload your balance online, the funds show up almost instantly instead of making you wait a day or two.
The end of the MetroCard era
This push for TAPP comes as the classic yellow MetroCard officially enters its retirement phase. We have already seen MetroCard sales and refills end at PATH stations, and the MTA is following suit across the subway system.
The city is currently in a massive transition period.
While we are all feeling a bit nostalgic about the iconic MetroCard retiring, the new system promises a much smoother experience. Once you have a TAPP card, you can even register it online at TAPPandRide.com to unlock features like auto-reloads and balance protection.
If you cannot make it to the stations this week, there is still a way to get your card for “free” in a way. If you buy a card at a vending machine for $5 and register it online, the PATH will give you a $5 travel credit to offset the cost.
So if you haven’t gotten one and you want one (for free) bookmark this and thank us later. 🤝