ventra description

Ventra is a contactless payment system that allows users to pay for public transportation in Chicago, Illinois. It was introduced in 2013 and is the city's official fare payment system for buses and trains operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra (commuter rail), and Pace (suburban bus service).

Ventra offers various payment options, including a contactless card called Ventra Card, a mobile app called Ventra App, and compatible contactless credit or debit cards. Users can load funds or transit passes onto their Ventra Card or account, and simply tap the card or smartphone onto the fare card reader when boarding a bus or entering a subway station.

In addition to fare payment, Ventra offers various benefits and features to users, such as the ability to manage their transit account online, view transaction history, set up automatic reloading, and add value or passes remotely. The system also allows users to transfer seamlessly between different modes of transportation within a limited time frame without paying an additional fare.

Overall, Ventra provides a convenient and efficient way for Chicago residents and visitors to pay for public transportation, simplifying the process and eliminating the need for physical tickets or exact change.