Reminder: You’ll Now Have to Prove You Paid for Transit on Toronto Streetcars

The TTC is slowly exiting the education phase and entering the enforcement phase of its proof-of-payment (POP) policy on streetcars.

The policy includes fare inspectors in yellow jackets patrolling vehicles and asking riders to show that they have paid their fare, either by showing a metropass, receipt, transfer slip, or Presto card.

Failing to provide proof of payment can result in a $235 fine.

The policy was enacted after rush hour masses on streetcars force many riders to enter the back door of streetcars where they could technically hop aboard without paying. TTC riders can board through all doors of streetcars on all 11 routes.

“Just our mere presence out there has probably dropped fare evasion about 2 per cent,” said Nick Milhomens, supervisor of fare inspection for the TTC.

There appears to be a very calculated science behind the strategy: “Typically you want to be able to inspect 4 to 5 per cent of your ridership. We’re going to see if with that number (of inspectors) we can reach that target. We don’t want to over-inspect but we don’t want to under-inspect. There’s kind of that sweet spot you’re looking for,” said Mark Cousins, head of Transit Enforcement.

While some are annoyed about having to remember to grab and hold onto a transfer, the TTC claims others are happy to be asked for proof of payment.

“There are people who spend $141 a month. To spend that much on a pass and then see people not pay … There are people happy to see us,” says one inspector.

A quick guide about the new POP system per the Toronto Star:

– If you’re paying by tickets, tokens or cash, continue to board via the front door of the streetcar. Always take a transfer. Transfers now include the word “proof of payment.” TTC officials are increasingly referring to transfers as “receipts.”

– If you have a Metropass or you’re transferring from another route, keep your pass or transfer handy. Don’t lose that paper transfer.

– If you’re paying with an electronic Presto card — and more TTC riders will be using them — make sure you tap on one of the card readers located near the doors of the streetcar. If you are asked to present your proof of payment, simply tap your Presto card on the inspector’s hand-held device.

– If you’re paying with Presto at a subway station, be sure to tap your card again when you get on the streetcar. You will not be charged two fares.

– Even if you are riding a streetcar and paid with Presto, you need to get a paper transfer to change to a TTC bus. Buses won’t have Presto readers for about another year.

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