How to use the Presto card on TTC and UP Express — buying, loading, using on streetcars and buses, and tips for visitors to Toronto in 2026.
How to Get the Presto Card
Buy at Pearson Airport (UP Express ticketing), any TTC subway station machine, Shoppers Drug Mart, or online at prestocard.ca. $6 card fee. Load minimum $10. Also works via the Presto app on compatible phones (Android NFC).
Presto Card Benefits
- Works on TTC, GO Transit, UP Express, York Region, Brampton, Mississauga, Hamilton — one card.
- UP Express discount: $9.27 vs $12.35 cash (save $3.08 each way).
- Transfer discount: up to 2 hours free on TTC (Presto records your tap-on).
- Auto-load available: set a minimum balance and the card tops up automatically.
- $6 card fee is refundable when you return the card with a remaining balance.
Fare Reference (CAD)
Payment methods: Presto card · Contactless Visa/Mastercard · Apple Pay · Google Pay · Cash (exact fare, buses only).
💡 Load a Presto card or tap your contactless bank card directly at TTC fare gates. The fare is $3.35 per trip, same whether you use Presto, contactless, or mobile. Cash is accepted on TTC buses (exact change only) but not on subway gates.
| Journey | Off-Peak (CAD) | Peak (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult fare (Presto/contactless) | $3.35 | $3.35 |
| Adult fare (cash bus only) | $3.35 | $3.35 |
| Day Pass (unlimited, one person) | $13.50 | $13.50 |
| UP Express (Union to Pearson) | $12.35 | $12.35 |
| UP Express (with Presto) | $9.27 | $9.27 |
| Monthly Pass | $156.00 | $156.00 |
Peak hours: No peak fare surcharge — flat $3.35 fare at all times (adult).
Presto Card vs Single-Journey Ticket
| Presto Card | Single-Journey Token / Ticket | |
|---|---|---|
| Fare benefit | Works on TTC, GO Transit, UP Express, York Region, Brampton, Mississauga, Hamilton — one card. | Standard full fare |
| Queue time | Tap and go — no queue | Buy at machine each time |
| Initial cost | $6 | Journey cost only |
| Works on all lines | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Best for | Anyone staying 2+ days | Single one-off journey |
Tips for Using the Presto Card
- Always tap in AND tap out at every fare gate — tapping out is required to correctly calculate the fare.
- Keep the card topped up before travel to avoid holding up queues at entry gates.
- The Presto Card works for the airport connection — see the airport guide.
- If you lose the card, contact Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) — some systems allow balance transfer to a new card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Presto on GO Trains to Niagara or other cities?
Yes — Presto is the standard payment for all GO Transit trains and buses, including seasonal GO service to Niagara Falls. Fares vary by distance. Load money at any TTC machine or prestocard.ca.
How do I tap Presto on a streetcar?
Tap the Presto reader at the front door when boarding the streetcar. On proof-of-payment routes (where inspectors check), tap before boarding. There is no tap-off on TTC — one tap deducts the flat $3.35 fare.
Is there a transfer on TTC with Presto?
Yes — Presto gives a 2-hour transfer window on TTC. Within 2 hours of your first tap, transfers between subway, streetcar, and buses are free (no additional tap needed on buses; some routes require a tap). Single-ride paper tickets do not have transfers.
Can I get a refund on my Presto card?
Yes — mail the card back to Presto or visit a GO Transit customer service office. The $6 card fee plus any loaded balance is refunded to the original payment method. Minimum $0 balance to return the card.
See also: Toronto Subway ticket prices · Airport connection · Full Toronto Subway guide
Source: Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). Fares and card terms subject to change — verify before travel.