Metro is reminding customers that the oldest SmarTrip cards expire on Tuesday, as the agency continues the installation of new faregates in the Metrorail system.
SmarTrip cards purchased before 2012 will no longer be accepted at faregates and fareboxes as of Tuesday, March 1. Those currently riding Metro, or who plan to soon, will need to replace their cards to travel on Metrorail or Metrobus after the deadline.
SmarTrip cards purchased before 2012 can be identified by the serial number on the back. All newer cards start with “0167” and no further action is needed. SmarTrip cards that start with any other serial number need to be replaced.
Metro says that while the ability to use the old farecards will be phased out on March 1, there will still be time to trade in the cards after the deadline. Any remaining balance on the old cards won’t be lost and can be transferred to a new card at any time. Metro will continue to offer free replacement cards through the mail, by phone or online for a limited time, according to a press release.
Anyone who has recently used Metro can get a free replacement card within a few days by request via phone 1-888-SMARTRIP (1-888-762-7874) or online. Customers also have the option of purchasing a new SmarTrip card at fare vending machines, retail locations or using mobile pay on Apple iOS and Android. The balance can then be transferred to the new card using your registered SmarTrip account. SmartBenefits customers, as well as Senior SmarTrip cardholders, may also use the online process to replace their old cards.
Photo courtesy WMATA