By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | March 29, 2026

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has officially launched its long-anticipated “Better Breeze” fare payment system, marking one of the most significant upgrades to Atlanta’s public transit experience in years.

Beginning Saturday, March 28, riders across the system will enter a five-week transition period as MARTA phases in new fare technology while temporarily maintaining elements of the old system. The transition will run through May 2, 2026.

MARTA officials say the rollout is designed to modernize how customers pay for transit, offering more flexibility, faster boarding, and a more seamless rider experience.

“We are asking our valued customers to bear with us,” said MARTA General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt. “Short-term inconvenience will lead to long-term improvement.”

What Riders Will Experience During the Transition

During the transition period, riders will encounter a mix of old and new fare equipment, along with ongoing construction inside stations. Temporary entrances and exits may also be in place as installation continues.

Importantly, both systems will operate simultaneously giving riders time to adjust.

Customers can still use existing Breeze cards and mobile tickets at older fare gates and validators. However, old ticket vending machines have been shut down, and riders can no longer add value to older cards.

At the same time, MARTA is encouraging riders to begin shifting to the new system.

New Ways to Pay

The Better Breeze system introduces several updated payment options:

• Riders can purchase new Breeze cards or tickets at upgraded vending machines and Ride Stores.
• A new online platform allows customers to load and manage fare digitally, with balances tied to an account rather than a physical card.
• Tap-to-pay is now available using bank cards or mobile wallets at new fare gates and on buses equipped with orange validators.

The new Breeze Mobile app also launches March 28 for both Android and iOS, replacing the previous version, which is no longer supported.

Cash payments will remain available on local bus routes, though exact change is required.

Important Deadlines and Changes

While old Breeze cards can still be used during the transition, riders are encouraged to switch to the new system by May 2.

For customers with remaining balances on old cards, MARTA will offer a transfer window from May 5 through October 30, 2026. Details on how to transfer funds will be released in the coming weeks.

Reduced Fare and Mobility customers will continue to have access to their existing balances and will receive new cards directly by mail.

A Shift Toward Account-Based Transit

One of the most notable changes is the move to an account-based system. Instead of storing value on a physical card, riders’ funds will now be tied to a digital account making it easier to manage balances, replace lost cards, and use multiple payment methods.

Transit officials say this shift brings MARTA in line with modern systems used in cities across the country and around the world.

Looking Ahead

As MARTA continues installation of the new system, riders are urged to pay close attention to station signage and announcements, especially when navigating temporary changes in station access.

The agency acknowledges that the transition may feel disruptive at times but emphasizes that the improvements are designed to create a faster, more convenient transit experience for the region’s growing population.

Additional information about the Better Breeze system and upcoming changes is available at MARTA’s official website.

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