Caltrain is a Proof-of-Payment system, requiring passengers to purchase and/or validate tickets before boarding the train.

Proof-of-Payment, POP for short, is a more efficient method of doing business. It also discourages fare abuse because everyone must pay to ride. POP also frees up conductors to provide better customer service and focus on operational duties.

In going to a Proof-of-Payment system, Caltrain is following the example of the vast majority of modern rail systems, as well as our neighbors at San Francisco Muni, VTA and Altamont Commuter Express.

How Does POP Work?

POP is an honor system, verified by conductors and fare inspectors. Passengers are responsible for purchasing tickets before boarding the train and will need to show the ticket to fare inspectors (in most cases conductors) who will be making random checks. Passengers without valid tickets are subject to a citation of up to $250 plus court costs.

How and Where to Buy Caltrain Tickets

• Tickets may be purchased at Ticket Vending Machines, from ticket clerks at staffed stations, online, at Caltrain's San Carlos headquarters, through some employers or through Caltrain's Ticket-By-Mail program (PDF, 91Kb) (call 650.508.6292 for information). Ten-ride and Monthly tickets can be purchased by mail with a check, credit card or Commuter Checks.
• Tickets are not sold on the train.
• Available tickets include One-way, Day Pass, 10-Ride and Monthly as well as discounted versions of the four ticket types for youth, seniors and people with disabilities.
• Children younger than five ride free with an adult.
• Tickets are only valid for a specified period. One-way tickets must be used within four hours of purchase. The expiration time is printed on the ticket.
• Each trip that is being taken on a 10-ride Ticket must be validated before boarding the train, using the stand-alone validators on the platform, which time- and date-stamp the ticket. The expiration time is printed on the ticket.
• Validators must be used with Caltrain's special free-ride coupon.

Please display your ticket for the conductor or fare inspector.