Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
Charlie: Card & Ticket Info
Reusable, Rechargeable CharlieCards and CharlieTickets
CharlieTickets are reusable and rechargeable while CharlieCards are the most affordable, flexible, and convenient way to ride.
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CharlieCards & TicketsCompare the plastic card and paper ticket, learn about "stored-value" and understand the added benefits of the CharlieCard.click for more
CharlieCards & Tickets
Both fare media are reusable and rechargeable but the Charlie Card is more affordable, versatile and convenient.
CharlieCard
Plastic, stored-value, online account management and reload features. Riders pay standard MBTA fares.
More about the CharlieCard & CharlieTicketCharlieTickets
Paper, stored-value. Riders pay standard fare plus a surcharge. (No surcharge when storing a T-Pass on a CharlieTicket.)
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Online CharlieCard ServicesWhether you're buying a new CharlieCard or reloading the one in your wallet, there's a lot you can do with Charlie's online services.click for more
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Entering Stations & Boarding VehiclesHow to use Charlie at the gates and on-board vehicles.click for more
Entering Stations & Boarding Vehicles
The new fare gates at stations and on vehicles make it easy to enter stations and board vehicles.
Tap Your Card
Just touch your CharlieCard on the black card target on any fare gate. The gate will open and you can proceed through.
More on station Fare Gates and on-board Fare BoxesInsert and Remove Your Ticket
Tickets are inserted and removed from the ticket slot at the front of the fare gate.
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Using Fare Vending MachinesBuying cards and tickets, and adding stored-value.click for more
Using Fare Vending Machines
New vending machines allow you to buy tickets or add value and passes to cards and tickets.
Buy a Ticket
Using cash, credit or old T-tokens, you can buy a new paper ticket or paper T-pass.
More on Buying and Recharging Cards and TicketsRecharge Your Card or Ticket
Existing card holders can check their balance, add value, or a T-pass to their card. Ticket holders can add value.
