Electronic fee collection: public transport systems in practice

This paper outlines the key technical details of smart cards as used in public transport. Smart cards are defined as credit card-sized cards containing a computer chip, or microprocessor, and memory. Paper magnetic, plastic magnetic, contact smart card and contactless smart cards are compared for use on public transport and the smart cards show numerous advantages. Hybrid cards may be used in contact and contactless modes. Combination cards may also be used for banking applications. Smart card schemes for public transport have been adopted in a range of countries, often alongside cash fares. Case studies include buses in Los Angeles, and draft methodology for developing the business case for contactless smart cards in public transport