MetroCard
The yellow swipe card that ruled New York transit from 1993 until sales ended December 31, 2025.
Example
Sales stopped on December 31, 2025, and remaining balances move to OMNY at an MTA customer service center rather than at a turnstile.
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Related terms
Getting around
OMNY
The MTA's tap-to-pay fare system on all subways and buses, which took over from the MetroCard when card sales ended...
Getting around
Local vs Express Trains
The subway's two service patterns: express trains skip stations on the middle tracks, locals stop everywhere.
Getting around
Yellow Cab
The classic metered taxi hailed from the street, still the fastest door-to-door option in the Manhattan core.
Getting around
Staten Island Ferry
The free 24-hour ferry between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island, sailing past the Statue of Liberty.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I still use an old MetroCard on my trip?
Assume no for planning. Sales ended December 31, 2025 and the MTA has not published a final acceptance date. Transfer any old balance at an MTA customer service center.
Why do New Yorkers miss a piece of yellow plastic?
Ritual. The swipe was a learned skill and the card a shared object across every class and borough. The token generation said the same before them.
Should I plan any part of my trip around a MetroCard?
No. Plan entirely on OMNY. Sales have ended and no final acceptance date has been published, so treat any old card as a balance to transfer, not a fare to rely on.
