DC Metro Map

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  • DC Metro Jobs [PD Jobs, Cleaning Jobs & more]

    DC Metro Jobs provides numerous career prospects via the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), a large employer in the area. The DC Metro jobs range from rail to bus operations, engineering, safety, and administration, so DC Metro Jobs is perfect for those looking to work in public transit careers. WMATA frequently seeks Bus Operators, Metro Transit Police Officers, Safety Engineers, Construction Inspectors, and Project Managers.

    DC Metro Cleaning Jobs

    The company offers good benefits, such as competitive wages, opportunities for advancement, and professional development training such as the MetroBus Operator Training Program. Entry-level positions, like the Bus Operator, start with paid training and can escalate to increased wages with experience. More technical or supervisory roles tend to call for specialised experience or certification. WMATA also sponsors hiring fairs and actively recruits military veterans. With job positions that back up critical transportation services throughout D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, DC Metro Jobs offer a secure and fulfilling career path in the public sector.

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    Washington DC Metro Jobs

    Washington DC metro jobs, which are provided by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), offer a broad career spectrum within the public transit industry. These positions span key fields including rail and bus operation, maintenance, engineering, public safety, administration, IT, and customer service. Some typical positions are Bus Operators, Train Operators, Metro Transit Police Officers, mechanics, engineers, cybersecurity experts, and project managers. Entry-level DC metro jobs, such as Bus Operato,r have paid training and can advance to higher pay and career development. More technical or senior positions usually demand particular experience or certifications.

    Candidates can apply on WMATA’s official careers website, and the hiring process can include skills tests, interviews, background investigations, and medical screenings. WMATA provides competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, pension plans, tuition reimbursement, and access to professional development training. The organisation also conducts targeted hiring events for veterans and specialised professionals. On the whole, Washington DC metro careers provide long-term career security, good benefits, and the possibility of advancement in an essential public service system.

    DC Metro PD Careers

    The Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) provides a variety of career paths for those who want to pursue a law enforcement and public service career. Careers range from entry-level and lateral police officers to a cadet program for 17- to 24-year-old young adults and a variety of civilian (professional staff) positions. Entry-level officers need to meet educational or military background requirements and complete academy training, whereas lateral recruits with previous law enforcement experience can enter in an accelerated track.

    1. Police Officer DC Metro Jobs

    • Entry-Level Police Officer:
      The starting pay for entry-level MPD officers is $60,200–$66,400, with annual increases after 18 months. No experience is required, and perks are a $25,000 hiring bonus and up to $6,000 housing assistance.
    • Lateral Police Officer:
      The Lateral Police Officer job is open to applicants who have previous law enforcement experience. Candidates attend a shorter, 16-week academy and get accelerated pay placement in addition to the same hiring bonuses as entry-level candidates.
    • Early Acceptance Program:
      The Early Acceptance Program is offered to those approaching 60 college credits or military personnel nearing discharge, with the benefits of early processing and conditional job offers.

    Entry Level Jobs DC Metro Area

    2. Police Cadet Program

    The MPD Cadet Program is offered to students between 17 and 24 years old, providing part-time employment attending college. It is hands-on law enforcement experience and is a stepping stone to becoming a full-time police officer.

    3. Civilian (Professional Staff) Positions

    MPD has several non-sworn civilian positions in administrative, technical, and support functions. Candidates are required to meet the qualifications of the job. They are offered competitive salaries, full benefits, retirement benefits, and health care.

    DC Metro PD Careers Eligibility Criteria

    • For Entry-Level & Lateral Officers: U.S. citizens or permanent residents, no less than 21 years old at appointment, and possess a valid driver’s license. Qualifications must include either 60 college credits, 2 years of honourable active military service, or 3 years of full-time law enforcement service. They will also have to pass a background check, medical and psychological tests, a polygraph, and drug testing.
    • For Police Cadets: Candidates should be aged between 17 and 24 years and studying or about to study at college level. No law enforcement background is required since the course offers elementary training and an introduction for those willing to pursue a career in policing.
    • For Civilian Positions: Requirements for these types of positions differ based on the job but typically consist of appropriate education and work experience. All candidates must also pass a stringent background check and have any specific requirements based on the position.

    Salary & Benefits

    Position Starting Salary Bonuses Benefits
    Entry-Level Officer $60,200–$66,400 $25,000 hiring bonus; $6,000 housing grant Medical, dental, vision, pension, paid leave
    After Probation (~18 mo) $65,800–$72,600
    Mid-Level (~5 years) ~$88,000+
    Lateral Officer Varies based on experience N/A Full benefits, shorter academy path
    Cadet Hourly rate (part-time) N/A College assistance; promotion potential
    Civilian Positions Differs by job N/A Benefits package depending on job classification

    Metro Cleaning Jobs in DC

    WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) also from time to time employs custodians to keep stations, buses, train cars, and support buildings clean. Their job includes frequent and intense cleaning tasks to keep stations up to high standards of cleanliness. WMATA has been known for providing top-of-the-line cleaning, even being awarded for keeping public areas spotless.

    Aside from WMATA, numerous private cleaning firms and contractors are present in the D.C. metropolitan region, providing office, residential building, and commercial property janitorial services.

    DC Metro Police Jobs

    Type of Cleaning Jobs

    • WMATA Custodial DC Metro Jobs:
      Metro cleaning is centered on keeping stations, rail yards, and bus facilities clean. The job involves sweeping, mopping, trash removal, restroom cleaning, and sporadic outdoor debris pickup. These DC metro jobs rarely get posted and are extremely competitive.
    • Contracted Environmental Service Cleaners:
      Cleaners are hired by private contractors for offices around Metro stations at $17.50–$20 an hour for work during weekdays. Responsibilities involve floor maintenance, cleaning restrooms, vacuuming, and sometimes biohazard work.
    • Residential & Freelance Cleaning DC Metro Jobs:
      Residential or apartment cleaning work in private homes throughout the D.C. metropolitan area provides flexible hours and wages that generally range from $11 to well over $30 an hour, based on the nature of the work and client demand.

    DC Metro Cleaning Jobs Eligibility Criteria 

    • High school diploma or equivalent (occasionally not necessary for residential cleaning).
    • Willingness to lift and move up to 50 lbs and be on feet for long hours.
    • Background checks are standard, and some employers mandate drug screening or vaccination records.
    • Reliable transportation and flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

    DC Metro Jobs Application Process

    1. For WMATA and contract positions:

      • Apply online via the WMATA careers site or job sites such as Indeed and Monster.
      • Participate in a short screening or interview.
      • Clear a background check and any medical/drug tests that are necessary.
      • Accept a job offer and complete onboarding.

    2. For freelance or resident work:

      • Apply on sites such as Housekeeper.com.
      • Negotiate rates and schedules directly with clients.

    DC Metro Cleaning Jobs

    Pay & Benefits

    WMATA and contracted cleaning positions also pay between $17.50 and $20 an hour and frequently offer benefits like health insurance, paid leave, and commuter benefits. Residential cleaning positions, on the other hand, typically do not include benefits but offer flexible scheduling and the possibility of making more money on client arrangements.

    Work Environment

    D.C. Metro area cleaning work can range from working in busy stations, offices, homes, or outside areas. Physical work is common, such as bending, lifting, and repetitive cleaning operations. Working hours can be early mornings, nights, or weekends based on the location.

    Type of DC Metro Jobs Pay Range Where You Work Hiring Method
    WMATA Custodian Varies (competitive) Stations, yards, rail facilities Apply via WMATA careers portal
    Contracted Cleaner $17.50–$20/hour Offices, public buildings Through private cleaning companies
    Residential Cleaner $11–$30+/hour Homes & apartments Freelance via online platforms

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What kinds of cleaning work are found within the DC Metro jobs?

    Cleaning and janitorial work can be found extensively through WMATA, private contractors, and in-home services. They pay from $17 to $20 an hour for these positions, while in-home or freelance cleaners may make up to $25 per hour based on clients and experience.

    2. How would I know about DC metro jobs fair?

    Job fairs in Washington, D.C., are organised by the D.C. Department of Human Resources (DCHR), City Career Fair, and other recruitment agencies. These events, held both in-person and virtually, provide opportunities in fields like transit, law enforcement, administration, and accounting.

    3. What is the process to apply for Transit Police DC Metro jobs? 

    Metro Transit Police jobs are advertised on the official WMATA careers website. They must undergo a written test, a physical fitness test, a background check, and a psychological examination. There is also a cadet program, which is a stepping stone to becoming an officer in the future.

    4. What are  Access DC Metro jobs, and how do I apply for them in D.C.?

    Metro Access positions, including paratransit drivers, are typically posted by WMATA contractors like Challenger Transportation. Pay varies from $18 to $30+ an hour, and applications are made online from contractor websites or job boards such as Indeed and CareerBuilder.

    5. Are accounting DC metro jobs easily available in the D.C. Metro area?

    Yes, accounting positions are in demand everywhere in the D.C. metro area, ranging from entry-level to high-level positions. Salaries range from $50,000 to more than $100,000 per annum, with most employers providing complete benefits.

  • DC Metro Hours: Operating Hours, Weekend Hours & Peak Hours

    DC Metro Hours: The DC Metro (Metrorail) typically has its hours vary by day of the week. Usually, Monday through Thursday, trains operate from 5:00 a.m. to midnight. On Fridays, there are longer hours with trains running from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. the next day. Saturdays have trains starting at 6:00 a.m. and running until Sunday at 2:00 a.m. Lastly, Sundays typically have hours from 6:00 a.m. to midnight.

    DC Metro Rush Hour

    It should be noted that particular holiday schedules differ, usually following a Sunday schedule or with special extended hours for high-traffic events. It’s always best to look at the official WMATA website or trip planner for the latest information, particularly around holidays or for certain station opening/closing times.

    Metro Hours DC [Washington DC Metro Hours]

    The DC Metro (Metrorail) has an organised schedule that differs depending on the day of the week, with service from 5:00 a.m. to midnight Monday to Thursday, with later hours to 2:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday (beginning at 6:00 a.m. on weekends), and 6:00 a.m. to midnight on Sunday. Frequencies are varied according to demand, with more frequent weekday rush-hour frequencies (e.g., Red Line trains every 4-5 minutes) and less frequent off-peak and late nights (e.g., all lines every 15 minutes on late night weekends, except the Red Line, which operates every 10 minutes).

    Riders can be reminded that individual station times are subject to variation, and it’s always best to refer to the official WMATA website’s Trip Planner for the most current and correct information, especially since holiday schedules or scheduled maintenance may change regular service.

    DC Metro Operating Hours

    The DC Metro has extensive service every day, beginning in the early mornings on weekdays and later on weekends. Weekday service runs late into the evenings, with Fridays and Saturdays having much extended hours into the early morning for nighttime fun. Train frequencies adapt with demand, running more frequently during rush DC metro hours. The following is a comprehensive table of the general operating DC Metro hours:

    Day Opening Time Closing Time
    Monday–Thursday 5:00 a.m. 12:00 a.m.
    Friday 5:00 a.m. 2:00 a.m.
    Saturday 6:00 a.m. 2:00 a.m.
    Sunday 6:00 a.m. 12:00 a.m.

    Important Notes:

    • Station Opening: The stations generally open around 10 minutes before the start of the first train.
    • Holiday and Event Schedules: Regular DC metro hours may be different during some holidays or events.
    • Frequencies: Frequencies are different by line and time, with higher frequency during rush hour and lower frequency during off-peak and late night.

    DC Metro Hours Saturday

    On Saturdays, the DC Metro (Metrorail) typically begins its service at 6:00 a.m. and runs until 2:00 a.m. the following morning (Sunday). This extended late-night service is designed to accommodate weekend activities and entertainment.

    Train frequencies on Saturdays during the daytime (from 6:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.) vary by line:

    • Red Line: Trains run every 6 minutes.
    • Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines: Trains run every 12 minutes.
    • Green and Yellow Lines: Trains operate every 8 minutes.

    DC Metro Weekend Hours

    Late at night on Saturdays (from 9:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. closing), the frequencies are modified:

    • Red Line: Trains operate every 10 minutes.
    • All other lines (Blue, Orange, Silver, Green, Yellow): Trains operate every 15 minutes.

    It’s worth noting that the exact DC Metro hours of the first and last trains can shift slightly from station to station. There may also be times when special events or holidays cause deviations from these regular Saturday operating hours, so it’s always a good idea to check the official WMATA site for the latest information.

    DC Metro Bus Hours

    As it operates on route-by-route schedules, so DC Metro hours of operation can differ by route, day, and time. Some of the buses are operational for a limited period, between peak DC metro hours, while others are running with increased frequency or even around the clock. As of December 17, 2023, 14 major routes (A6, A8, B2, H4, S2, V2, W4, X2, 32, 33, 52, 70, 80, and 92) now offer 24/7 service with every 20 minutes or better frequency of buses operating between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. WMATA also launched a new bus network on June 29, 2025, so passengers should consult revised schedules online. Holiday service typically operates on a Sunday or modified Saturday schedule.

    Service Type Days of Operation Typical First Bus Typical Last Bus Frequency Notes
    24/7 Routes Monday – Sunday Continuous (Midnight) Continuous (Midnight) Runs 24 hours a day. Frequencies are usually every 20 minutes or better during late-night/early-morning periods (9 PM – 7 AM).
    General Weekday Service Monday – Friday 4:00 AM – 6:00 AM 11:00 PM – 1:00 AM Higher frequencies during rush hours in the mornings (6 AM – 9 AM) and afternoons (3 PM – 7 PM).
    General Saturday Service Saturday 5:00 AM – 7:00 AM 1:00 AM – 2:00 AM Lower frequency than on weekdays, but frequently late into the evening compared to regular weekdays.
    General Sunday Service Sunday 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM 11:00 PM – 12:00 AM Lower frequency than on weekdays and Saturdays.
    Holiday Service Specific Holidays Varies Varies Usually follows Sunday or a modified Saturday schedule. Special notices are released by WMATA for every holiday.

    DC Metro Peak Hours

    The DC Metro peak hours are usually on weekdays during peak ridership hours—5:00–9:30 a.m. and 3:00–7:00 p.m., with greater train frequency. Although peak DC metro hours had higher prices, as of recent revisions, prices are currently distance-based prior to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and a flat fee after 9:30 p.m. and on weekends. Although Metro did away with higher “peak fares” effective June 26, 2023, the idea of peak DC Metro hours continues to control train frequency. Fares are now distance-based before 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and a flat $2.00 fare at all times after 9:30 p.m. and on weekends (changed to $2.25–$2.50 on weekends as of June 2025).

    Category Days of Operation Time Period Key Characteristics
    Peak Hours Monday – Friday Morning: 5:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
    Evening: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.    		 Highest Frequency: WMATA operates the most frequent train service to accommodate more riders (e.g., Red Line every 4–5 mins, other lines every 6–10 mins).
    Potential Crowding: Trains are often very crowded.
    Off-Peak Hours Monday – Friday Midday: 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
    Late Night: 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. (M–Th) / 2:00 a.m. (Fri)    		 Lower Demand: Fewer riders than during peak times.
    Reduced Frequency: Trains are less frequent than peak hours (e.g., Red Line every 6–10 mins, other lines every 12–15 mins late night).
    Less Crowding: Trains tend to be less crowded.
    Saturday & Sunday All operating hours Off-Peak Fare/Service: Overall weekend is typically off-peak.
    Reduced Frequency: Service is less frequent than weekday peaks, akin to weekday off-peak or late-night service.
    Typically Less Crowded: More leisurely travel experience.

    Washington DC Metro Peak Hours

    Sunday DC Metro Hours

    On Sundays, the DC Metro runs from 6:00 a.m. to midnight. It starts later than weekdays, and train intervals are shorter all day long, as the whole Sunday is off-peak. Most of the day, trains depart every 6-12 minutes based on the line, dropping to every 10-15 minutes later in the evening. Passengers should visit the WMATA website for specific station times or holiday schedule adjustments.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What are the normal operating times of the DC Metro (Metrorail)?

    The DC Metro (Metrorail) operates from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (Monday–Thursday), 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. (Friday), 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. (Saturday), and 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (Sunday), With extended DC metro hours on weekends for late-night operation.

    2. What are the rush  DC Metro hour (peak hour) times?

    The peak times on the DC Metro are between 5:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on weekdays. During these times, trains run more frequently to accommodate increased commuter traffic, particularly on heavily used lines such as the Red, Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines.

    3. At what time is the DC Metro open on weekends?

    On Saturdays, the DC Metro operates from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. the next day, offering extended late-night service for weekend travellers. On Sundays, service is from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, with typically lower train frequency throughout the day than on weekdays.

    4. How are the operating DC Metro hours for buses different from Metrorail operating hours?

    Metrobus schedules change according to the route. Although the majority of routes have regular daily hours with fixed beginnings and ends, some major routes now provide 24/7 service to meet late-night and early-morning travellers. Precise operating times are based on the individual route, day, and demand.

    5. Are fares varied within peak DC Metro hours?

    No. With recent fare changes, fares on the DC Metro are distance-based weekdays until 9:30 p.m., no matter whether peak or off-peak. During weekdays after 9:30 p.m. and weekends, a flat fare is charged, making it easier for passengers to understand prices.

  • DC Metro Fares: MetroRail & Bus Fares, Fare Calculator

    DC Metro Fares are dynamic, varying on a number of factors: how far you go, if it’s peak or off‑peak time, and which service you’re taking. Metrorail, as an example, uses a distance‑ and time‑pricing system. On peak hours (weekdays from 5 AM to 9:30 PM), regular DC Metro fares can cost between $2.25 and $6.75. Off‑peak trips (after 9:30 PM weekdays and all weekends) are less expensive, with prices ranging from $1.10‑$3.35. Metrobus routes, on the other hand, usually charge a flat rate of $2.25 for base routes, making fare computation easier for bus passengers.

    DC Metro Fare Prices

    Payment is made possible through the SmarTrip card, which can either be a physical credit card or an application installed on a mobile phone. Although cash is accepted aboard buses, exact change must be made. The Metro system also provides discounted fares for qualified groups, such as seniors, people with disabilities, and SNAP recipients, by way of its Metro Lift program. In addition, frequent riders can enjoy several unlimited passes – daily, weekly, or monthly – that are very affordable for regular commuting.

    Washington DC Metro Prices

    Washington DC Metro fares vary and change depending on service, distance, and time. DC metro fares range between $2.25‑$6.75 (regular) and $1.10‑$3.35 (reduced), with the lower prices after 9:30 p.m. and during weekends. Metrobus regular routes are $2.25 (regular) and $1.10 (reduced), with express routes costing $4.80 (regular) and $2.40 (reduced). MetroAccess fares may cost up to $4.50. Daily, multi‑day, and monthly passes are offered.

    Discounted DC Metro fares are available for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and Metro Lift participants, and children under 5 travel free, with D.C. students included in the Kids Ride Free scheme. Payments are made through the SmarTrip app, SmarTrip in digital wallets, plastic SmarTrip cards or cash (buses only, exact fare). Metrobus transfers are free between Metrobus routes within 2 hours, and a discounted $2.25 transfer is available between Metrorail and Metrobus, with a free transfer available between certain Metrorail lines at Farragut stops.

    WMATA DC Metro Fare Calculator

    The DC Metro Fares Calculator is a web application that is meant to assist users in approximating the costs of their travel through the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) network. It offers detailed fare calculations based on considering different factors:

    • Ride Type: Includes Metrorail, Metrobus, Express Bus, and Airport Express.
    • Time of Travel: Determines peak and off-peak periods to provide correct pricing.
    • Fare Type: Processes regular riders, discounted fare eligibility (seniors/disabled), and users of the Metro Lift program (SNAP participants, enjoying a 50% discount).
    • Payment Method: Accommodates SmarTrip Card, contactless transactions, and cash.

    Key Features

    The Washington DC metro Fares include a calculator that now features some important updates to improve accuracy and convenience. It adds the Metro Lift Program, with a 50% discount for qualified SNAP recipients. It also takes into account changes from the Better Bus Network, which includes the redesigned bus routes. The calculator also accommodates contactless payment, in addition to fare rates on credit/debit cards and mobile wallets. Finally, it incorporates the longer weekend Metro times, coordinating with the adjusted operating plan for more efficient planning.

    Functionality and Information Provided

    WMATA DC Metro Fares calculator enables users to calculate single ride fares, transfer fees, and group or family travel fares. It also enables comparisons among different pass options—1‑Day, 3‑Day, 7‑Day, Monthly, and Regional Bus passes—to determine the most affordable option. It also includes information about parking fees, station accessibility amenities, and facilitates trip planning throughout the entire Metro network servicing Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

    DC Metro Fares & Prices

    The Washington DC Metro system is operated by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and has a differentiated fare system depending on the nature of service, distance covered, and day and hour of your travel. Below is a breakdown of the DC metro fares in detail:

    Fare Calculator DC Metro

    Metrorail Fares

    Metrorail fares depend on the time of day.

    Fare Type Weekday (5:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m) Weekday (After 9:30 p.m.) & Weekends
    Regular Fare $2.25 – $6.75 $2.25 – $2.50
    Reduced Fare $1.10 – $3.35 $1.10 – $1.25

    Metro Passes (Metrorail & Metrobus)

    Several passes provide unlimited travel or discounted fares.

    Pass Type Regular Price Reduced Price (where applicable)
    1‑Day Unlimited Pass $13.50 –
    3‑Day Unlimited Pass $33.75 –
    7‑Day Unlimited Pass $60.75 –
    7‑Day Short‑Trip Pass $40.50 –
    Monthly Unlimited Pass $72.00 – $216.00 –
    Regional Bus Pass (7‑Day) $13.50 $6.75
    • Reduced Fares: Offered to people with disabilities, seniors, and customers participating in the Metro Lift program.
    • Children: Two children 4 and under travel free with a fare-paying passenger. Children 5 and above pay the full fare.
    • DC Kids Ride Free Program: Free rides for Metrorail and Metrobus travel for DC public, private, charter, or parochial school students.

    How to Pay for Metro Prices in Washington, DC

    DC Metro Fares are paid for through the SmarTrip app, SmarTrip stored in Apple Wallet and Google Pay, plastic SmarTrip cards, or cash (exact fare for buses). SmarTrip cards and fares are available for purchase online, at DC Metro Fare Vending Machines in Metrorail stations, and retail stores.

    Transfer Rules

    • Metrobus to Metrobus: Unlimited free transfers within 2 hours when paying with a SmarTrip card.
    • Metrobus to Metrorail / Metrorail to Metrobus: A $2.25 reduction within 2 hours. This reduction is not valid on express routes.
    • Farragut Crossing: Free transfer between Red Line and Orange, Silver, and Blue lines by getting off at Farragut West and boarding at Farragut North (or vice versa).

    DC Metro Bus Fare

    The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates the DC Metrobus system offers wide bus coverage throughout Washington, D.C. and into Maryland and Virginia. The fare is simple on different types of routes, and eligible riders may buy it at a discounted price.

    Metrobus fares differ mainly by the route type – whether regular or express route.

    Route Type Regular Fare Reduced Fare
    Regular $2.25 $1.10
    Express $4.80 $2.40
    • Regular Routes: These include typical local services, such as those formerly marketed as MetroExtra and Metroway, which were incorporated into the new “Better Bus Network” that began on June 29, 2025.
    • Express Routes: These are generally quicker trips with fewer stops, usually covering longer distances or commuter routes.

    Washington DC Metro Fare Rates

    Payment Methods at Washington DC Metro

    Metrobus strongly recommends cashless payment with a SmarTrip® card or the SmarTrip® mobile app (in Apple Wallet and Google Pay). While cash is accepted on most routes, exact fare is expected since bus drivers don’t handle cash.

    Transfers

    • Metrobus to Metrobus: Riders using a SmarTrip® card enjoy free, unlimited transfers on Metrobus routes within two hours.

    • Metrobus to Metrorail / Metrorail to Metrobus: A $2.25 transfer discount is available for switching between Metrobus and Metrorail service (or vice versa) within two hours, if a SmarTrip® card is used. This discount does not pay for the entire transfer to or from express bus routes.

    Reduced Fares and Free Rides

    • Discount Fares: These are offered to eligible seniors (65+), customers with disabilities, and customers who are enrolled in the Metro Lift program. The Metro Lift program provides a 50% discount on all Metrorail and Metrobus fares for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit recipients.
    • Children: Two children, 4 and under, can ride with each paying adult at no charge. Children aged 5 and over ride at full fare.
    • DC Kids Ride Free Program: Metrorail and Metrobus travel are free for DC students who go to public, private, charter, or parochial schools under this program.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How much does it cost to ride the Washington, DC Metro now?

    As of the last update, weekday Metrorail costs are between $2.25 and $6.75, based on distance travelled and time of day. Late-night (after 9:30 PM) and weekend fares are lowered to between $2.25 and $2.50. Metrobus fares are $2.25 for regular routes and $4.80 for express rides.

    2. Where are the DC Metro fare rates and fare chart located?

    The DC Metro fare chart defines a distance- and time-based fare system. Weekday fares range from $2.25 to $6.75, and weekend and late-night fares are lower, ranging from $2.25 to $2.50. Metrobus fares stay at $2.25 for local buses and $4.80 for express buses.

    3. Are weekend DC Metro fares less, and is there a fare calculator?

    Yes, weekend DC metro fares are cheaper and range between $2.25 and $2.50, providing more economical travel. Customers can calculate exact costs for particular trips, including weekends and late evenings, using the WMATA Trip Planner tool online.

    4. Is there a downloadable fare chart or a Metro fare calculator for DC?

    The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) offers an online PDF fare chart for DC metro fares, consisting of weekday and weekend fares. The online fare calculator on the Trip Planner also permits passengers to enter their travel information in order to see exact fare costs for Metrobus and Metrorail.

    5. Did Washington, DC’s Metro raise fares recently?

    Yes, a fare increase went into effect on June 30, 2024. The new rates raised Metrobus fares to $2.25 (local) and $4.80 (express), and weekday DC metro fares now cost up to $6.75. Weekend and late-night DC Metro fares usually range between $2.25 and $2.50. No other hikes have been announced for 2025 yet.