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Say Hello to Charlie

A better way for you to pay, board, and travel.

Register for a Charlie Account

Charlie gets you going faster and makes it easier to pay your fare

Welcome to the test phase for the new Charlie system!

Thank you for your participation in the field test of the MBTA's new payment system. Your feedback helps us ensure that the system we're designing and building works in the real world for the riders that use it.


Please note that at this time, only riders enrolled in the test phase are able to use the new system and access to some features, passes, and locations will be limited.

Learn more about the test phase

Charlie accepts new ways to pay

You'll be able to travel without a fare card by tapping your mobile device, contactless credit card, or using your wearable.

Learn more about contacless payment options

Charlie accepts cash

All fare vending machines and retail locations accept cash. You can also use cash to reload your mobile fare card.

Find places where you can pay with cash

Tap everywhere with Charlie

You'll be able to tap and board the same way on the bus, subway, regional rail, and ferry. With Charlie, paying your fare won't get in your way.

Learn more about how to use your Charlie Card

Charlie opens every door for quick boarding

No more holding up the line while you pay your fare. Readers will let you tap and board at every door on buses and Green Line trains.

Register for a Charlie account

You'll be able to protect your balance if your card is lost or stolen, automatically reload your Charlie Card, get account notifications, and increase your personal privacy.

Register for a Charlie AccountLearn more about the benefits of registering