Ventra card is a contactless smart card used for fare payment on public transit in the Chicago metropolitan area. The card was introduced in 2013 and can be used on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains, Pace buses, and Metra trains. It is a reloadable card that allows users to add value to their account and use it for transit fares.
Here's a detailed guide on how to obtain and use a Ventra card:
Registering your Ventra card is not mandatory, but it has many benefits such as protection against loss or theft, balance protection, and automatic reload. You can register your card online at ventrachicago.com or by calling 1-877-NOW-VENTRA (1-877-669-8368).
When boarding a CTA bus, simply tap your card on the reader located near the driver. When boarding a CTA train, hold your card up to the reader located on the turnstile. For Pace buses and Metra trains, look for the Ventra logo on the reader and follow the instructions on the screen.
Here's a table summarizing the different ways to obtain and load value onto a Ventra card:
| Product | Price | Quantity | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apples | $0.50 | 5 | $2.50 |
| Bananas | $0.25 | 10 | $2.50 |
| Oranges | $0.75 | 3 | $2.25 |
| Total | $7.25 | ||
Ventra cards can only be used on public transit in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Ventra cards cannot be used on other transit systems outside of Chicago.
Ventra cards cannot be used to pay for parking at CTA lots.
Overall, Ventra card is a convenient and cost-effective way to pay for public transit fares in the Chicago metropolitan area. It is easy to obtain, register, and use, and offers many benefits such as automatic reload and balance protection.
A Ventra card costs $5, but the $5 is refunded as transit value when you register your card within 90 days of purchase.
Yes, you can use your Ventra card to pay for parking at CTA lots. Just touch your card to the reader at the parking pay station and follow the instructions on the screen.
No, Ventra cards can only be used on public transit in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Yes, you can transfer between CTA, Pace, and Metra using your Ventra card. Just make sure to touch your card to the reader on the second system within 2 hours of your first use.
