If you've got a SmarTrip card that's more than 10 years old, be prepared to trade in that card now.
Metro's oldest SmarTrip fare cards will no longer be accepted at faregates and fareboxes starting Tuesday, March 1, WMATA says.
Why Are Old SmarTrip Cards Expiring?
Cards purchased before 2012 won't be compatible with Metro's new faregates, which have already been installed at many stations, according to the transit agency.
We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.
WMATA says it first warned customers about 10 months ago that the old cards would need to be replaced as stations were being equipped with new faregates.
How to Transfer the Balance on an Old SmarTrip Card
Although the old farecards will stop working March 1, you'll still be able to trade them in after the deadline, and any remaining balance can be transferred to a new card.
Metro will offer free replacement cards via mail, phone (888-SMARTRIP or 888-762-7874) or online here for a limited time. You can also buy a new SmarTrip card and then transfer the balance from your old card using your online SmarTrip account.
WMATA said SmartBenefits customers and Senior SmarTrip cardholders can also use the online process to replace their old cards.
How to Check the Age of Your SmarTrip Card
Can't remember exactly when you purchased your SmarTrip card? That's OK: You can find out via the serial number on the back.
All newer cards start with "0167." For those cards, you won't need to do anything.
SmarTrip cards that begin with any other serial number will need to be replaced.
