Frequently Asked Questions

The new and improved ORCA is an upgraded fare payment system that is used by transit agencies in the Puget Sound region. These include Community Transit, Everett Transit, King County Metro, Kitsap Transit, Pierce Transit​, Sound Transit ​and Washington State Ferries. It builds on the existing ORCA system and offers transit riders new and improved ways to pay their fare.

ORCA customers and transit riders were asked to comment on the current ORCA system. Over 2,600 people responded. Customers confirmed that ORCA has made traveling throughout the region easier. The feedback we received from the survey led us to keep the things customers like and ensure the new ORCA will:

• Offer a mobile app to manage your account and pay your fare on iOS and Android devices
• Instantly load value and products to your ORCA account
• Offer more retail locations to buy ORCA cards and add value
• Feature an improved website that makes it easier to manage your account

Soon you can add fare value in real-time, manage your account from anywhere with the new myORCA App or myORCA.com website, which replaces orcacard.com and orcacard.biz and find more retail locations closer to you. As we upgrade the system, lookout for new ORCA card readers and vending machines across the region.

With the new and improved ORCA system, you have the flexibility to keep using the card you have. If you use ORCA at retail stores, you will need a new, re-designed card later in 2022.

If you share an ORCA card with someone, get ready to use the new system by making sure each rider has their own card. Group fares for school trips and caregivers will still be available.

We’ll start by launching a new website and mobile app May 16, 2022, which will improve account access and make account management easier. You’ll be able to link your existing ORCA card to take advantage of new and improved account management tools and manage your ORCA card on the go.

Later in 2022 going into 2023, we’ll launch a new card and increase the number of stores where ORCA cards are sold, as well as add more ways to pay, including tap-to-pay with your smartphone.

Yes. myORCA.com will replace orcacard.com and orcacard.biz. You will need to create a new account on myORCA.com when it launches in May 2022. When you connect your card to your new account your balance and passes will automatically transfer, but you will need to reconfigure your autoload if you have an existing one.

The new website will be easier to use and include new account management tools and features, which include instant fare loading and multiple card management capabilities.

Yes. At launch, you will be able to load and fully manage your card using the myORCA app on your iOS or Android smartphone. Later in 2023, we’ll offer the option to go cardless, with a tap-to-pay virtual card feature.

Yes. You don’t need to replace your card. When the improved ORCA launches, you’ll be able to continue using your card no matter the fare type while also taking advantage of the improvements that the new system has to offer. Management of your existing card will move to myORCA.com or on the myORCA app for iOS or Android.

Yes, you will need to create a new account on myORCA.com or via the myORCA app in May 2022. When you connect your card to your new account your balance and passes will automatically transfer. Learn how to create an account and connect your card here.

After the new app and website launches, we will focus on increasing the number of store locations where you can buy and reload ORCA cards.

There will be at least twice as many retail locations for purchasing ORCA cards and loading value starting later in 2022. We expect even more locations to join the ORCA retail network over time.

Between May and late 2022, while we make improvements to our retail network, you’ll experience temporary changes to how you use ORCA cards at stores. Once the expanded retail network is launched, you will need a new re-designed card to use ORCA at stores.

Yes. Starting in early 2022, we’ll start replacing vending machines and card readers. During this transition, there will always be a card reader or vending machine available for riders to use. Agencies will also be adding more vending machines and card readers in stations and transit hubs.

Yes – for the better! Our new website, myORCA.com, will include features to make managing your account much easier. For example, Business Choice customers will be able to set up autoloads for their cardholders. ORCA for Business also supports pre-tax transit benefit programs. There are many new enhancements for employers; read more about them here.

The ORCA team will provide training and information to businesses and their employees to ensure a smooth transition before launch.

Ahead of this, businesses should update their primary contact information ​(email and mailing address) by logging into​ their account at orcacard.biz. Your account manager will follow up to ensure you have completed registration.

​Employees can start using the new myORCA app and website without replacing their current cards.  

When myORCA.com launches, you will not need to replace employee cards; they will still work in the new system.

Each Transit Agency sets its own fare policies and some offer small business programs. Learn more by contacting your local agency.

The e-voucher program will be going away with the launch of the new ORCA. Account managers will reach out to affected businesses with an alternative prior to launch.

The ORCA retail network is made up of retail merchants and stores, such as grocery and convenience stores, across the central Puget Sound region where customers may purchase and/or load value to their ORCA cards.

When compared to the current system, there will be at least twice as many locations in the new ORCA Retail Network. This will make purchasing new ORCA cards and adding value to ORCA cards much easier and more accessible.

As a current member of the ORCA Retail Network, you will be contacted by an account manager from Ready Credit Corporation. They will support your transition to the new system.

You will earn a commission on all cards sold and value-loaded at your location. Additionally, you will receive marketing support including a kit of ORCA branded marketing items to let customers know that they can purchase and/or add value to ORCA cards at your location, increasing your foot traffic.

If you would like to participate in our retail network, you can learn more by contacting Jay Love at Ready Credit Corporation at 856-745-0699 or by emailing jay@readycreditcorp.com.

The new ORCA system will have the same passes and products today including monthly and daily regional passes and the ability to load e-purse.

Having an ORCA card allows you to ride and transfer between all seven participating transit agencies in the Puget Sound region*. Most transfers are free, and purchasing ORCA passes saves you money! You can register your card for balance protection, avoid using cash to pay for your ride and enjoy faster boarding.

*Some exclusions apply on special trips and Washington State Ferries.

Yes! Youth cards, Regional Reduced Fare Permits, and ORCA LIFT cards will be a part of the improved ORCA system. We’re making it easier to apply online so those who can’t apply in person can still participate. If you would like to know more about reduced fare programs and find out if you qualify, visit King County Metro’s eligibility savings site here, or Sound Transit’s ORCA LIFT site here.