Planning your Olympic trip? Here's exactly what you'll pay for LA Metro transit, how to buy passes, and when the day pass saves you money during the Games.
LA Metro operates a simple, flat-fare system across all rail lines (subway, light rail, and some bus routes). Whether you're taking a two-station ride or a full line from end to end, you pay the same single fare. This system is fair, transparent, and easy to understand for first-time visitors.
During the 2028 Olympics, fares are expected to remain the same or potentially increase slightly with inflation. We'll update this guide closer to the Games when LA Metro announces any adjustments.
| Fare Type | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Ride (Cash) | $2.00 | One-way trip, no TAP card |
| Single Ride (TAP Card) | $1.75 | One-way trip with reloadable card |
| Day Pass (TAP Card) | $7.50 | Unlimited rides in one calendar day |
| Weekly Pass (TAP Card) | $32 | 7 days of unlimited riding |
| Monthly Pass (TAP Card) | $105 | 30 days of unlimited riding |
The $7.50 day pass is one of LA Metro's best values, especially during the Olympics when you're moving between multiple venues across the city. Let's break down the math:
| Number of Rides | Cost Without Day Pass | Cost With Day Pass | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 rides | $7.00 | $7.50 | No savings |
| 5 rides | $8.75 | $7.50 | $1.25 |
| 6 rides | $10.50 | $7.50 | $3.00 |
| 8 rides | $14.00 | $7.50 | $6.50 |
| 10 rides | $17.50 | $7.50 | $10.00 |
If you're planning to take 5 or more rides in a single day during the Olympics, the day pass is the smarter choice. During a typical Olympic day with multiple events or venue hopping, you'll easily exceed 5 rides.
The Transit Access Pass (TAP) card is LA Metro's payment system for all rail lines and most bus routes. It's a reloadable contactless card you tap on readers when boarding. Here's what you need to know:
You can load multiple ride values onto a single TAP card. Here's the recommended strategy for Olympic visitors:
Using a TAP card is simple:
If you're between ages 6–18 or a K–12 student, you qualify for a reduced fare:
Youth Pass: $0.90 per ride (vs. $1.75 standard)
Youth Day Pass: $3.75 (vs. $7.50 standard)
Youth Monthly Pass: $52.50 (vs. $105 standard)
Seniors (age 62+) and riders with disabilities receive reduced fares:
Senior/Disabled Pass: $0.90 per ride
Senior/Disabled Day Pass: $3.75
Senior/Disabled Monthly Pass: $52.50
You'll need to show valid ID (such as a senior ID or disability placard) to qualify. Some international visitors may qualify with proper documentation from their home country.
LA Metro offers a low-income pass program with reduced fares. Eligibility is based on income. Visit metro.net/fares for details and applications.
TAP cards work on:
For the 2028 Olympics, all major routes to Olympic venues accept TAP cards. You'll have no trouble using your card across the entire system.
Vending machines at Metro stations accept:
At taptogo.net, you can purchase and load fares using:
Some LA Metro bus routes accept contactless credit cards and mobile payments directly (no TAP card required). However, rail lines still require a TAP card. For maximum compatibility during the Olympics, get a TAP card.
While TAP cards are the standard, you can pay cash on most buses and at Metro station vending machines. However, cash has drawbacks:
For Olympic visitors staying multiple days, a TAP card saves money and hassle.
If you're attending multiple Olympic events over several days, consider these options:
3–4 Day Visit: Buy 3–4 day passes at $7.50 each = $22.50–$30. More cost-effective than daily single rides.
5–7 Day Visit: Buy a weekly pass at $32. Excellent value if you're using Metro daily.
10–14 Day Visit: Buy a monthly pass at $105. Best value for extended Olympic attendance and daily sightseeing.
LA Metro offers free transfers between lines for certain combinations of routes. Here's what you need to know:
During the 2028 Olympics, you can transfer from the K Line light rail to a bus for no additional fare, making it easy to reach any Olympic venue with a single TAP card.
LA Metro has not announced special Olympic surcharges. Fares are expected to remain at 2026 levels ($1.75 per ride, $7.50 day pass) through 2028, though standard inflation adjustments are possible. LA Metro typically announces fare changes well in advance, so check metro.net in mid-2028 for any updates.
If you lose your TAP card, don't panic. Register your card at taptogo.net and you can report it lost. The balance may be transferable to a new card (depending on your registration). Always keep your receipt as proof of purchase.
If you're coming from outside the United States: