Learn how to use the new ORCA fare collection system. From getting an ORCA card to loading fare onto the card, Community Transit can help.

1. Traveling the Puget Sound region by bus, train and ferry is even easier with the arrival of ORCA- One Regional Card for All.

2. The ORCA card works like cash or a pass, automatically tracking the value of different fares and transfers so you don't have to.

3. When boarding, ORCA riders simply tap their smart cards on a reader device located by the farebox.

4. The electronic fare system replaces about 300 various passes, tickets and transfers with a single card.

5. ORCA works for all seven of the major public transportation agencies serving King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties.

6. Where is ORCA accepted?

7. To buy an ORCA card, go to the RideStore, Everett Station or visit www.orcacard.com.

8. You may also order an ORCAcard by mail or by phone. Call1-888-988-6722

9. Why Get ORCA Now?

10. Cash will continue to be accepted on all of the transit systems. However, the agencies plan to eliminate the sale of paper passes and tickets later this year.

11. Paper transfers that cash customers get for trips between multiple agencies will go away on Jan. 1, 2010.

12. If you pay your fare with cash and take a second bus or train, you will need to pay full fare again. With ORCA, your transfer is automatically credited.

13. Newer or less frequent transit riders should consider purchasing pre-paid transportation value on an ORCA card, similar to having a pre-paid coffee card or bus tickets in the past.

14. With an ORCA “E-purse,” the fare value of your ride is deducted automatically from your card, and if you need to take a second bus or train to complete your trip, the transfer credit is calculated as well.

15. Riders who purchase their own monthly transit pass will begin to receive ORCA cards instead of their usual PugetPass over the next couple of months.

17. Those customers will be converted as annual contracts come up for renewal.

19. Under normal wear, ORCA cards are expected to last three to five years before they need to be replaced.

22. With each trip, the correct fare amount is automatically deducted from the value on the card.

24. ORCA cardholders can check their account balance online, by phone or at ticket vending machines. Customers will have the option to register their cards, which allows them to restore their card value if it is lost or stolen.

25. Registered cardholders can select an “Autoload” feature that can add value to a card when their E-purse is drawn down or when their monthly pass expires.

26. Customers are invited to report problems or offer comments on the ORCA system at 1-888-988-6722 (ORCA) and via www.orcacard.com.