Caltrain

Riding with Clipper

Most customers need to tag their card at the beginning and end of each trip. You'll need to tag off when you exit. Learn why tagging off is important.

Tips for Tagging:
  • Using cash value? Tag on and off for each ride, so you're charged the right fare. Tag off within 4 hours, or you'll be charged the maximum one-way fare.
  • Using a pass? It depends on how you bought your pass. Learn more about using Clipper.
  • Riding multiple trains in the same direction? Don’t tag off until the end of your trip.
  • Need to cancel your ride? Tag your card twice at the same station within 15 minutes.
Tip: Riders who need help finding a card reader with audio signals can listen for a low beeping sound at 15-second intervals. Here’s a sample of the tone.Opens in new window

Paying with Clipper

Always have $1.25 in cash value on your card, even if you have a pass.

Caltrain accepts the following on a Clipper card:

  • Cash value: Clipper customers get discounts on one-way fares (55 cents for adults, 15 cents for others).

  • Monthly pass: Unlimited weekday rides for adults within the zones you specify for one calendar month. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, the pass is honored for unlimited trips between all zones. Available for sale from the 21st of the prior month through the 15th. Discount passes available for youth, senior and disabled riders.

Zone upgrades: Purchase a Zone Upgrade ticketOpens in new window from Caltrain Mobile or a Caltrain ticket machine to travel outside your monthly pass zones on weekdays. The upgrade and your Clipper card are your proof of payment. Do not tag on and off outside your pass zones, or Clipper will deduct the total trip cost from your cash balance.

Tip: Monthly pass customers can also buy a monthly parking permit. Visit Caltrain for information.Opens in new window

Transferring with Clipper

Get free or discounted rides when you transfer from Caltrain to AC Transit’s Route M, Muni, SamTrans and VTA. You must tag on and off to get a free or discounted ride on a connecting service.

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