If you’re trying to figure out how to pay for the bus in Montreal, the system in 2026 hasn’t changed much and is easy once you’ve used it once or twice. Buses in the city are run by the Société de transport de Montréal, and yes — you do need to pay for the bus in Montreal every time you ride.
Most people pay for a bus in Montreal using an OPUS card. It’s a reusable transit card that works on buses and the metro. You buy the card at a metro station or from an authorised retailer, load it with trips or a pass, and tap it on the reader when you get on the bus. That’s how locals do it day to day.
If you’re asking how do you pay for the bus in Montreal without a card, cash is still accepted. You need exact change, which you drop into the fare box beside the driver. Drivers don’t give change. When you pay this way, you can ask for a paper transfer as you board.
Some riders who don’t use transit often choose a disposable fare card with one or more trips loaded onto it. These are bought before boarding and validated on the bus just like an OPUS card.
People also ask how to pay for buses in Montreal using a phone. Mobile apps can be used to reload an OPUS card, but buses themselves don’t rely on apps alone. Tap-to-pay with a bank card or phone is slowly being introduced, but it’s not available everywhere yet, so it shouldn’t be your only plan.
A single fare costs about $3.75 CAD and is valid for two hours, including transfers between buses and the metro during that time.
The main thing to remember is simple: buses don’t sell tickets. If you’re unsure how to pay for the bus in Montreal, just make sure you have a loaded OPUS card, a valid ticket, or exact cash before you get on.
FAQs
How do you pay for bus in Montreal as a visitor?
Most visitors buy an OPUS card or a disposable fare card at a metro station. Exact cash also works on buses.
How do you pay for the bus in Montreal if you don’t have OPUS?
You can pay with exact cash when boarding.
How to pay for a bus in Montreal using your phone?
You can reload an OPUS card using official apps. Direct phone tap payment is still being rolled out and isn’t available on all buses.
Do you need to pay for the bus in Montreal when transferring?
Yes, but one fare covers transfers for up to two hours.
How to pay for the bus in Montreal at night or on weekends?
Payment works the same at all times.
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