What a Metro transfer PIN is and why you need one

A transfer PIN is a four-digit code that Metro (the Washington DC transit system) issues to riders who want to transfer between bus and rail, or between two buses, without paying a second fare. When you tap your card at the second vehicle within a set time window — usually two hours — the PIN lets the system recognize you as a transfer rider instead of charging you again.

You do not need a PIN to transfer; the system tracks transfers automatically when you use the same card. The PIN exists for situations where you lose your card, forget it, or need to board without it. It lets you tell the bus or rail operator "I already paid — here is my transfer code" and board without a new fare.

Most riders never request a PIN because they carry their card. You would get one if you expect to be without your card for a trip, or if you want a backup method to prove you paid.

Key Takeaways

  • Metro issues transfer PINs at any Metro sales office or by phone at 202-637-7000, and the code is tied to your specific card account.
  • A transfer PIN is a four-digit code that lets you board a second vehicle without paying again if you do not have your card with you.
  • The PIN is valid for one transfer within the two-hour window from your first tap, and you must tell the operator the code when you board.
  • You can also request a PIN online through your Metro account if you have registered your card on the Metro website.

Getting a transfer PIN in person at a Metro sales office

The fastest way to get a PIN is to visit a Metro sales office with your card. Bring your SmarTrip card or the card number if you have it memorized. Tell the clerk you need a transfer PIN for your account. They will issue a four-digit code on the spot and write it down for you — keep it somewhere safe, like your phone or wallet.

Metro sales offices are located in most rail stations. The main office is at Metro Center Station (Red, Orange, Silver lines), open weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Other stations with sales offices include Gallery Place, L'Enfant Plaza, and Union Station. Hours vary by location, so check the Metro website before you go.

If you do not have your card with you, the clerk can still issue a PIN if you provide your card number or account information. The PIN will be linked to that account and work the next time you need it.

Requesting a transfer PIN by phone

Call Metro Customer Service at 202-637-7000 to request a transfer PIN over the phone. Have your SmarTrip card number ready. The representative will verify your account and issue a four-digit code. Write it down immediately — they will not repeat it, and you will need it to board.

Phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Wait times can be long during rush hours, so calling mid-morning or mid-afternoon usually connects you faster.

The PIN issued by phone works the same way as one issued in person — it is valid for one transfer within two hours of your first tap. If you lose the number before you use it, you can call back and request a new one.

Requesting a transfer PIN through your online Metro account

If you have registered your SmarTrip card on the Metro website, you can request a PIN through your account. Log in at wmata.com, go to your card settings, and look for the transfer PIN option. The system will generate a code and display it on screen — screenshot it or write it down before you leave the page.

This method works only if you have already created a Metro online account and linked your card to it. If you have not registered yet, you can do so at wmata.com by entering your card number and email address. Registration is free and takes a few minutes.

The online method is the fastest if you have internet access and your account is set up, because you get the PIN instantly without waiting on hold or traveling to an office.

How to use your transfer PIN when you board

When you board your second vehicle, tell the operator or tap your card as usual. If the system does not recognize your transfer, or if you do not have your card, tell the operator your four-digit PIN. They will enter it into the farebox or their handheld device, and you will be allowed to board without paying.

The PIN works only within the two-hour transfer window from your first tap. If more than two hours have passed, the system will not recognize it as a valid transfer, and you will need to pay a new fare. The operator will let you know if the PIN is expired.

Keep your PIN private — do not share it with other riders. Each PIN is tied to your account, and sharing it could allow someone else to board on your transfer.

What to do if you lose your PIN or it does not work

If you forget your PIN before you board, call Metro Customer Service at 202-637-7000 or visit a sales office to request a new one. You can get a replacement PIN the same day, though phone wait times may be long during peak hours.

If you give the operator your PIN and it does not work, ask them to check the code again — sometimes numbers are misheard or entered incorrectly. If it still does not work and you are within the two-hour transfer window, the operator may allow you to board anyway, especially if you can show your card or account information on your phone.

If the PIN does not work and you are outside the two-hour window, you will need to pay a new fare. This is rare if you request the PIN shortly before you transfer, but it can happen if there is a long delay between your first and second vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a transfer PIN if I do not have a SmarTrip card?

No. Transfer PINs are issued only to riders with registered SmarTrip cards. If you do not have a card, you can buy one at any Metro sales office or online at wmata.com. Once you have a card, you can request a PIN through any of the methods listed above.

How long is a transfer PIN valid?

A transfer PIN is valid for one transfer within two hours of your first tap. After two hours, the PIN expires and you will need to pay a new fare. If you do not use the PIN within that window, you can request a new one for your next trip.

Can I use the same transfer PIN for multiple trips?

No. Each PIN is valid for one transfer only. After you use it to board your second vehicle, you will need to request a new PIN if you want to transfer again on a future trip. You can request a new PIN at any time through phone, online, or in person.

What if my transfer PIN does not work at the farebox?

Tell the operator the code did not register and ask them to try entering it again. If it still does not work, check that you are within the two-hour transfer window. If you are, the operator may allow you to board. If you are outside the window, you will need to pay a new fare or request a new PIN for a future trip.