On April 1, 2025, Sacramento RT will launch phase 1 of the Tap2Ride program. New readers will enable fare payments with contactless debit/credit cards or mobile wallets, without needing to download apps or purchase dedicated transit fare cards. On buses, riders can tap their cards or mobile devices when boarding, and transfer privileges will be automatically granted between buses. During phase 1, contactless payments are accepted at light rail ticket machines, but transfer privileges are not available when transferring from buses with contactless payments. Later this year, additional Tap2Ride readers will be installed on light rail platforms to allow transfers.

Senior discounts can be applied to payment cards by signing up online at the Cal-ITP site, with no need for an in-person visit. Eligibility is verified through login.gov and the Social Security Administration.

The Tap2Ride program is part of the California Integrated Travel Project (Cal-ITP) initiative to introduce open contactless payments to transit agencies outside the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, which have their own regional transit fare card programs.

Sacramento RT also offers a Connect Card regional contactless fare card and the ZipPass mobile app for fare payment. Some fare discounts (for students and disabilities) still require in-person verification with the transit agency. While riders aged 62 or older can pay the senior fare on Sacramento RT, the Tap2RIDE program adheres to the state and federal qualification age of 65.