San Rafael bus riders who pay cash will lose free transfers on Marin Transit routes starting Jan. 1, 2027.

The Marin Transit Board of Directors approved two fare policy changes Monday, Oct. 5. The board also ended the paid Youth Pass, a change that took effect Tuesday, Oct. 6.

Both moves stem from a 2024 Fare Collection Study that recommended making Clipper the district's primary payment method. The base fare is not changing, and cash remains accepted on every bus.

What riders lose

Cash-paying passengers on Marin Transit local routes can currently transfer to a second bus for free. Starting Jan. 1, each boarding with cash will require a separate fare payment. The standard adult cash fare is $2.

Clipper users will keep unlimited free transfers within two hours of their first tap, according to the district’s Clipper information page. Adults pay $1.80 per ride instead of $2, before applicable transfers or fare maximums, and are capped at $5 per day or $40 per month on Marin Transit.

Youth Pass gone, alternatives remain

The annual paid Youth Pass is no longer available for purchase.

Students in any Marin County school district who qualify for free or reduced-price meals can still get a youth pass at no cost. Other riders ages 5 to 18 can use a Clipper Youth Card, which cuts the standard adult fare in half.

For the July 13 meeting, staff recommended a Sept. 14 public hearing and submitted a Title VI fare-equity analysis, which examines effects on low-income and minority riders, according to the board staff report.

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission had transitioned all active Marin Transit Clipper cards to the Next Generation Clipper system by the July 13 staff report.

How to get a Clipper card

Plastic Clipper cards can be purchased at the San Rafael Transit Center, at SMART train stations in Marin County, at the Larkspur Golden Gate Ferry terminal and at participating retailers including Walgreens and Whole Foods. Low-income Bay Area riders ages 19 to 64 can apply for a Clipper START card, which provides a 50% discount. CalFresh participants qualify automatically.

Marin Transit said in its October announcement that cash will remain accepted for fares. Riders who want to keep free transfers will need to switch to Clipper.

Marin Transit will offer free fares on all local buses Tuesday, Nov. 3, for Election Day.