Transferring

You may transfer between modes using either an ORCA card or through contactless payment using a debit/credit card.

As long as you transfer within 2 hours, your original fare will be credited toward the next leg of your journey.

For example, if you use your ORCA or use contactless payment to pay your $5.25 Sounder fare between Seattle and Tacoma, and then transfer to Link, the fare you've already paid will also count toward your ride on Link. So instead of paying two separate fares, most passengers enjoy completely free transfers. (If the second leg of your journey costs more than the first, you'll pay only the difference, still saving money.) 

Using your ORCA card for transfers

ORCA calculates the cost of your trip and deducts that amount from your account. Sounder fares are calculated by how far you travel, so remember to tap your ORCA card on the yellow card reader at the start of your trip and at your destination, or you'll be charged the highest fare from your origin.

On Link light rail, tap your ORCA card on the yellow card reader before you board. On buses, tap the reader by the driver when you board. No need to tap off a ride on the bus or Link.

Using contactless debit/credit card for transfers

Tap the same contactless credit or debit card each time you ride to receive the same two-hour, transfer benefit you experience with ORCA cards. Make sure you're tapping the same credit/debit card to receive transfer benefits.

Note: while contactless transfers work on most agencies in the region, contactless debit/credit card payment do not work on the Seattle Monorail, Washington State Ferries, and some dial-a-ride services around the region. 

Need an ORCA card?

Don't have an ORCA card yet? You can purchase a regular adult card from Link station ticket machines (which accept cash, credit or debit cards) and at retail locations throughout the region.

Learn more about fares, ticket machines and how to get an ORCA card here.