Thailand Insight · lifestyle
How to Tap In and Out on Bangkok’s MRT
A practical guide to contactless fares on the Blue and Purple lines, including card choice and transfers.
On Bangkok’s Blue and Purple lines, riders can tap an eligible contactless bank card at a fare gate. Thailand’s Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) announced that the full rollout of EMV contactless fare payment was scheduled for June 1, 2026. MRTA announcement
Take one card out of your wallet
Operator BEM tells riders to tap a single card at a gate marked for contactless payment. Use the same card to enter and exit. If the system cannot match the two taps because you used different cards, it can charge the maximum integrated fare. Registration is optional for travel, and an account lets you check your journey history. BEM conditions of use
Check before transferring
Card acceptance and eligibility for a transfer or parking discount are separate questions. BEM’s park-and-ride discount has its own requirements for eligible transit cards. If your trip involves several operators, check payment options for each leg. If a gate rejects your card, ask station staff which alternative ticket you can use. BEM gate instructions
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This column expresses the author’s personal opinions.