The LIRR NYC MetroCard is a popular, re-composed rent card used to pay public transport fares in New York City. Whether you are a commuter, student, tourist, or topical rider, the MetroCard simplifies your journey on the subway and buses operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
MetroCard Overview
The MetroCard allows riders to reach the huge public transport network of New York City, including subway, local buses, select Express buses, Roosevelt Island Tram, and Staten Island Railway. It is a plastic, magnetic-stop card available in two main formats: pay-per-ride and unlimited ride. While incredibly versatile within the five boroughs, the MetroCard is not accepted on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), Metro-North, or PATH trains.
Types of MetroCards and MetroCard Costs
Table below contains several types of MetroCards for different rider needs:
| Type | Description | Cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pay-Per-Ride | Load any amount from $5.80 to $80. Fare is deducted per ride. | $2.90 per ride | ||
| 7-Day Unlimited Ride | Unlimited subway and local bus rides for 7 days. | $34 | ||
| 30-Day Unlimited Ride | Unlimited subway and bus rides for 30 days. | $132 | ||
| Reduced-Fare MetroCard | For seniors (65+) and people with qualifying disabilities. | 50% off standard fares | ||
| Single-Ride Ticket | One subway or bus ride within two hours of purchase. | $3.25 (not refillable) |
How to Choose the MetroCard
Choosing the right MetroCard depends on your travel frequency:
Where to Buy a LIRR NYC MetroCard
You can buy a MetroCard at many places across the city of New York:• MetroCard vending machines (accept cash, debit, and credit cards) at all metro stations)• Station booth with MTA employees• Authorized retailers like feature stores, pharmacies and newsstands• OMNY card (available as an alternative contactless option, but not yet for unlimited ride)
How to Check LIRR NYC MetroCard Balance
To check your Metrocard balance:• Swipe your card on a metrocard vending machine or subway turns.• Ask an agent at any station booth.Use MTA’s balance checker (if you have a registered card or refill it online) Your remaining balance or the day (if unlimited) will be shown on the screen.
How to Add Balance to a LIRR NYC MetroCard
You can add balance by using your Metrocard or by filling it again:• Metrocard vending machines (available at all metro stations)• Station booth (only cash)• Online (for registered cards or low-cost accounts)• Autorphilal Program (for unlimited metrocard users who enrollin MTA EGPE service)Pay using cash, debit or credit card according to the approved methods of the location.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the MetroCard accepted on LIRR or PATH?
No, Metrocard is not valid on LIRR, Metro-North or Path trains.
2. Can I move between the metro and the bus using the MetroCard?
Yes, free transfer is allowed within 2 hours when using the pay-per-ride Metrocard.
3. Does MetroCard end?
Yes, the LIRR NYC MetroCard ends after 12 months of inaction, but the remaining amount can be transferred to a new card.
4. What happens if I lose my MetroCard?
Lost or stolen cards cannot be replaced until it is a registered Easypay, MetroCard, or low-cost cards.
5. Is Omny replacing MetroCard?
Yes, Omny will completely replace the MetroCard by 2025, providing contactless tap-and-go to the MTA system.