TriMet Fare Overview
TriMet, the regional transit agency serving Portland, Oregon, sets its fares based on a combination of base price, product type, rider eligibility, and boarding mode. This guide explains current prices for buses and MAX Light Rail, ticket and pass options, eligibility and discounts, and methods of payment. Costs vary by product, zone count, and rider category, and choosing the right pass can make frequent travel more affordable. Below is a concise snapshot of key fares before details and context.
Quick Fares Snapshot
| Product | Eligibility / Zone | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Base Fare (Bus or MAX, 2.5 hours) | 1 zone, rider 19–64 | $2.50 | Single ride within time limit |
| Youth Fare (6–18) | 1 zone | $1.00 | Bus or MAX, proof required |
| Senior/Disabled Fare (2.5 hours) | 1 zone | $1.25 | Requires verification or pre-loaded pass |
| Honor Fare (Base) | Base single ride | $2.50 | Required if no valid fare media present |
| Monthly Pass (Adult) | All zones | $100 | Unlimited rides; regional option |
| 7-Day Pass (Adult) | All zones | $30 | Unlimited rides for 7 consecutive days |
How TriMet Fare Products Work
A fare product on TriMet defines how long a ticket or pass is valid, how many zones it covers, and who is eligible to buy it. A base fare typically covers 2.5 hours of travel and one or two zones depending on the ticket, while passes provide unlimited rides for a set period. The valid fare depends on the mode, time of boarding, and proof of eligibility. Riders using regional options like the Hop FastDek must follow the same fare rules as on TriMet-operated buses and light rail.
Base Fare Types and Costs
The most common single-ride option is the adult base fare, which permits boarding a bus or MAX within 2.5 hours and crossing up to two zones if the ticket covers them. Youth riders aged 6 to 18 pay a reduced fare, while seniors and eligible people with disabilities qualify for a lower discounted fare. For passengers who cannot show a valid ticket or pass, the honor fare is higher than a standard ticket. Fare media can be a paper ticket, a reloadable card, or a mobile ticket purchased in advance.
Single-Ride and Transfer Details
A single ride purchased at the adult rate currently costs $2.50 and remains valid for 2.5 hours, allowing transfers within that window. Transfers between buses or to MAX are permitted with the same ticket, provided the transfer time limit has not been exceeded. Zone requirements can increase the fare if your trip crosses designated zone boundaries; a two-zone adult fare may be higher than a one-zone fare. Tickets purchased on board or at MAX stations are typically limited to one zone unless selected otherwise at a ticket vending machine.
Pass Options and Best Use Cases
Passes are cost-effective for regular riders who use transit frequently in a given week or month. The 7-day pass provides up to seven days of unlimited bus and MAX rides within the activation window, while the monthly pass extends that coverage to an entire calendar month. Multiple regional passes and employer-sponsored programs can change effective pricing. For occasional riders, single tickets or mobile tickets may be more economical than a pass. Consider your typical travel pattern—daily commuting, occasional trips, or short visits—when selecting a pass.
Comparing Passes and Pay-as-You-Go
- 7-Day Pass: Suitable for heavy riders over a week; covers unlimited rides on buses and MAX.
- Monthly Pass: Ideal for daily commuters; unlimited rides for one calendar month.
- Single Tickets: Better for low-frequency travel; each ride requires a base fare.
- Regional ORCA Options: May offer integrated pricing across agencies; confirm coverage with TriMet if you use regional payment.
Discounts and Eligibility
TriMet offers reduced fares for qualifying seniors, people with disabilities, and youth. Discounted fares require valid proof or a pre-loaded pass that identifies the rider’s eligibility. Some educational institutions and employers may provide subsidized passes or payroll deduction programs, which effectively lower the cost of a monthly pass. Always carry appropriate ID if you plan to ride with a reduced fare, and ensure your pass is activated or loaded before boarding.
Payment Methods and Practical Tips
You can pay your TriMet fare using cash (exact change on buses), contactless payment cards, mobile tickets via a smartphone app, reloadable transit cards, and passes loaded with monthly or week-long validity. Hop FastDek and other regional fare media are accepted on TriMet services when properly registered and funded. Keep your transfer window in mind, validate or retain paper tickets as required, and check for any service-specific rules when using regional payment options. For current details on payment acceptance, card minimums, and any temporary policy changes, visit TriMet’s official website or contact their customer service.