By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | April 22, 2026
Riders across metro Atlanta’s transit network are approaching a firm deadline to transition to a new fare payment system, as Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority officials confirm that all customers must convert to the “Better Breeze” system by May 2, 2026.
The upgrade affects not only MARTA riders but also customers using regional transit partners, including ATL Xpress, CobbLinc, Connect Douglas, and Ride Gwinnett.
Transit officials say the new system is already live, with installation of updated fare equipment ongoing. For now, station gates remain open during the transition period—but that grace window will close May 2, when new faregates activate and payment will be required to ride.
What Riders Need to Know
Under the Better Breeze system, riders must use one of the following payment methods:
- A new orange Breeze card
- A major bank card
- A mobile wallet
New Breeze cards are available at ticket vending machines in select stations, MARTA Ride Stores, and online through Breezecard.com. Riders who qualify for reduced fares or mobility programs will automatically receive new cards by mail, while institutional cards are being distributed through employers, schools, and partner organizations.
Cash will still be accepted on local bus routes—with important limitations. Riders must provide exact change, will receive no transfers, and cannot load cash onto Breeze cards while on the bus. Cash is also not accepted onboard the Rapid A-Line.
What Will No Longer Work
Beginning May 2, several familiar options will be phased out:
- Old Breeze cards
- Breeze Mobile 2.0 app
- The new BreezeMobile app for fare payment (it is currently for account management only)
Officials emphasize that while the new app exists, riders must still use a physical card or bank/mobile payment for now.
What Happens to Existing Balances
MARTA is assuring customers that unused balances will not be lost. Riders who register their new Breeze accounts will be able to transfer funds from old accounts between May 5 and October 30, 2026.
What’s Coming Next
The agency says additional improvements are on the way, including:
- Virtual Breeze cards stored in mobile wallets
- Retail availability of Breeze cards
- New onboard cash fareboxes
Why It Matters
The Better Breeze rollout represents one of the most significant fare system upgrades in MARTA’s history, aligning Atlanta with other major transit systems that have shifted toward contactless payments.
But the transition also raises practical concerns—especially for riders who rely on cash or may not yet have access to updated cards. With the May 2 deadline approaching, transit officials are urging riders to act now to avoid disruptions.
Customers can find more information, including instructional videos in English and Spanish, through MARTA’s website, social media channels, or customer service line.
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