OCTA launched the new Wave fare payment system in October, bringing riders a more convenient and flexible way to pay for OC Bus trips. Signups/registration
The new Wave system replaces traditional paper passes with smart, reloadable physical cards and payment options through the Wave mobile app and enables debit and credit cards.
To pay their fare, riders simply tap their physical Wave card or virtual card via a mobile device when boarding, streamlining the experience for all bus passengers and making boarding more efficient.
To build awareness and help with the transition, OCTA Transit Ambassadors will be at major transit centers and bus stops through the second week of November demonstrating how to obtain the Wave card, register accounts online and load value.
“Wave represents an important step in modernizing our OC Bus system,” said OCTA Chair Doug Chaffee, also Chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors and Fourth District Supervisor. “Our goal is to make public transit as accessible and convenient as possible.”
Riders who prefer to pay cash may continue to do so onboard buses using exact change only – drivers and fareboxes cannot make change.
Existing youth and community college pass programs, as well as reduced fares for seniors, will remain in place with no changes. Youth 18 years and younger always ride at no cost with a Youth Ride Free pass.
The Wave system is part of OCTA’s broader effort to enhance accessibility, sustainability, and customer service across its transit network. By simplifying how passengers pay and eliminating the need for paper passes, OCTA is reducing waste, increasing efficiency, and aligning with modern payment technologies used in major transit systems across the country.
“With Wave, we’re giving riders more control, better value, and a smoother experience,” said OCTA CEO Darrell E. Johnson. “It’s another example of OCTA’s commitment to innovation and the highest level of customer service that keeps Orange County moving.”
For more information about Wave, visit here.