SmarTrip 4+

Have never had a more difficult time trying to add value to a public transportation app. Used apps from all over the US and Europe and this has to be the most frustrating experience. Won’t recognize Apple Pay option. Camera won’t scan credit card. Enter card info manually. After 4-5 failed attempts to buy new Smartrip card due to various reasons based on the pop-up messages it finally charged my credit card but did not give me a card or show any credits. So now I will have to go to the station and buy a paper card at the machine and work to get my money back for the failed attempt. So much for the added convenience of no-touch, electronic transactions.

Hmm this doesn't sound right. Please look in your Apple Wallet to verify that your virtual card wasn't loaded there. We don't sell paper cards, but a plastic card can be purchased at any Metro station. We want to make sure that your mobile card is working correctly. If you're still having issues, please chat with us a wmata.com/chat weekdays 7a-7p. -KB

Unfortunately, I agree with previous reviewers in that it is incredibly difficult and cumbersome to setup or add funds to a card on the app. It’s hard to add a physical card (repeated failure loading from camera) and mind bogglingly complex to setup the card to auto reload. The option available says it’s unavailable without buying a pass. I don’t want a monthly pass, I want to setup auto reload on the card. I know it’s possible because I had it, but when I needed to load a new card after the change over in card types it took hours to figure it out. I finally got it, but I don’t know how and again helping my father try and set his card up Im reminded about this endless loop of trying to get auto reload. Today we gave up.

You also need to choice to either associate a card with your watch OR your phone. You can’t use both.

I’m hopeful that these issues can be revolved. It really could be a wonderful app.

Hi, we suggest adding your virtual SmarTrip card to your Apple Wallet. This way, funds are immediately available, and you can pay fare for several transit systems.

If you have questions about adding a plastic card or auto-reload, please chat with us at www.wmata.com/chat M-F between 7 am & 7 pm. -KA

I don’t understand the negative reviews. This app was our best friend on our recent trip to DC. Being a couple from down south with NO experience with public transportation, this app allowed us to use our phone to just tap our way through the metro stations. It is so easy to make an account if you have ANY experience with technology. We got the 3 day unlimited pass for our 3 day trip. I was even able to still use the tap feature on my phone after my phone died.
You just put in your location and your destination and it tells you exactly what metros to get on and when.
This app was a life saver for us so I just wanted to encourage other travelers to use it.

This is great to hear! We're glad you were able to use the mobile app and the specific features without any issues. Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback. -KA