Kansas City, Mo. (May 21, 2026) — The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and RideKC will resume fare collection on regional bus service beginning June 1, 2026, after several years of zero-fare transit service.
Beginning May 26, riders will be able to download the RideKCGO mobile app, set up their account, and add funds to their account so they can tap the app to pay for rides. The RideKCGO mobile app is one of four easy ways riders can pay fares across the RideKC system.
In addition to the RideKCGO mobile app, riders may purchase limited-use day passes at the following locations starting May 26:
Additional fare payment options include contactless “Tap to Pay” using eligible debit, credit or prepaid cards. The system accepts Visa, MasterCard and Discover. (It does not accept American Express at this time.)
Beginning June 1, standard fares for RideKC bus routes will be:
To make riding easier and more convenient, RideKC’s new fare system will include “fare capping,” commonly used transit technology that automatically limits how much riders pay each day, week or month. Riders who pay for single trips will never pay more than the equivalent cost of a daily, weekly or monthly pass once that spending threshold is reached.
“Change is never easy,” said Chuck Ferguson, interim CEO of KCATA, “however, this return to fare collection is essential to long-term transit sustainability. And when it comes down to it, it’s truly about helping people get where they need to go safely—whether that’s work, school, healthcare, or essential services—and building a stronger, more connected community in the process.”
KCATA and RideKC are also launching the RideKC Free & Reduced Fare Program, designed to help eligible riders continue accessing public transportation at either free or reduced fares. The program will support low-income individuals, older adults, people with disabilities, youth and others who may need transportation assistance.
Additional eligibility details, enrollment information and program rollout timelines will be announced today. Additional information about fares, payment options and rider resources is available at RideKC.org/fares.
There will be three public outreach meetings next week to provide riders and the general public the opportunity to learn about the new fare system, purchase passes, get one-on-one assistance with loading the RideKCGO app and applying for reduced fare eligibility.
All three public meetings will be held at the East Village Transit Center, 13th & Charlotte, KCMO.
Tuesday, May 26 Thursday, May 28 Saturday, May 30
8 a.m. – Noon 4-7 p.m. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
For additional information go to ridekc.org.
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About KCATA: Congress established the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) in 1966, granting jurisdiction over a region spanning two states, seven counties and over 100 cities. KCATA utilizes its authority to enhance public transportation accessibility and broaden service options. This is achieved through a range of transportation services and the development of transit-oriented community development. The authority operates under the public-facing brand RideKC. In 2022, KCATA earned recognition as North America's top mid-sized transit agency. For more information or to find the nearest stop and join the journey, visit ridekc.org.