walkingbikingcarpooling/vanpooling
taking a bususing the metrotaking the train
riding a ferryteleworkingusing an alternative fueled vehicle


The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority operates the second largest rail transit system in the U.S. The first phase of Metrorail begin operation in 1976 with the final leg of the original 103-mile rail network completed in early 2001. Metrorail presently operates 86 stations with one line extension and three new stations under construction.

• $1.35 minimum with a maximum fare of $3.90 on weekdays from opening to 9:30 a.m., 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. and 2 a.m. to closing. The maximum fare is $2.35 all other times. For fares between stations, click on your starting station on the system map and choose "Fares and times between stations."
• Transfers - free within Metrorail. $.35 with transfer to regular Metrobus routes.

• 7 days a week
• Metrorail opens 5:00 a.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. on weekends. It closes at midnight Sunday to Thursday. On Friday and Saturday nights, it stays open until 3 a.m.

Look for the tall brown column with the large "M." It identifies the Metro station by name. The color stripes show each Metrorail line that serves the station - blue, green, orange, red and yellow. If you're driving, look for the large Metro signs. Pylons also have the name of the station and line in Braille and raised letters.

For the location of stations, see the system map or the stations page.

Metro-operated lots offer free weekend and holiday parking. Daily parking rates vary by station.


A farecard, Metrorail pass, Metrochek or SmarTrip card are needed to enter and leave the system. Farecards and some passes can be purchased at vending machines in the station mezzanine (Information on using vending machines). Enter through the faregates (Information on using faregates).


Maps in the stations near the farecard machines and inside the trains can help you find your way. Note the name of the last stop of the line going in the direction you are traveling and the stations where you want to transfer. Transfer stations are identified on the map with a double black circle.


Signs in the station will tell you which platform to use for your destination. Once you are on the platform, please stand on the red tiled area. Flashing lights at the platform's granite edge will alert you that a train is entering the station.


Check the destination of the train before you board. Destinations are displayed over the train's front and side windows. The color of the line is displayed on the front and back of the train.

Electronic display signs will assist persons who are hearing impaired.


Stand clear of the train car doors and let passengers get off before you board. Allow persons with disabilities or special needs to board first. Be sure to step over the gap between the platform and the train. Chimes signal that the car doors are closing. Once the chimes have sounded, step back and wait for the next train. Unlike elevator doors, the train doors do not reopen automatically.

• Remember to share your commitment with your employer. Your employer may offer you a flexible schedule in case you arrive a few minutes late!

For more information about Metrorail, visit www.wmata.com/bus2bus/smartbenefits/page/mchowitworks.html.