Get started with public transport payment options

Google Maps offers features that help you find ticket options on public transport trips.

How we rank public transport payment options

When there are multiple ticket options, Google Maps ranks transport operators based on the following factors: 

  • Data accuracy: Transport operators that provide accurate and real-time departure and arrival time data are ranked higher.
  • Popularity: Ticket options are prioritised based on their conversion rates.
  • Convenience: Based on the ease of the provider’s checkout experience.

Generally, the most important factor is data accuracy in order to ensure that users always have the most accurate public transport data across Google Maps.

To show you these results, Google Maps partners with many ticket providers, like transport operators, operators and third-party resellers. Results may not reflect all available partners.

Under 'Agency info', you can find tickets for agencies that don’t have real-time departure information. Your trip information is pre-populated if the provider allows it.

Based on the provider’s preferences, you can purchase and save tickets through Google Wallet. Payment experience varies by ticket type.

  • Transport operators that accept open-loop payments: You can tap to pay with your preferred payment option.
  • Transport operators that accept closed-loop payment cards: You can buy, add and recharge your public transport card directly in Google Wallet.
  • Public transport passes like visual tickets and barcode tickets: You’re taken to the provider’s purchase site, where you can then save the ticket to Google Wallet.

Find your purchased tickets in Google Wallet

In 'Your data in Wallet', if you turn on 'Use passes across Google' and 'Manage passes data', you can view your purchased tickets. For most tickets, you can tap your phone to pay for your trip. You can also access and use barcode and QR code tickets from Google Wallet.

Multi-agency ticketing

In some regions, tickets purchased from one transport operator may be valid for use with other operators in that region. Before purchasing a ticket for a trip via Google Maps, we recommend that you check existing tickets in your possession and their validity for upcoming trips. You can also contact your ticketing provider to confirm.

When you purchase a ticket via Google Maps, the ticket will, at a minimum, cover the indicated part of that trip. Tickets may also cover other portions of your trip. Contact your ticket provider to check.

More info about public transport payments

  • Special prices for infants and students aren’t included yet.
  • This feature is only available on Android Google Mobile Maps. All countries and regions are included subject to partner availability.

Related resources

Was this helpful?

How can we improve it?
Search
Clear search
Close search
Google apps
Main menu
175546217882467556
true
Search Help Centre