Montréal Transit Fare Types & Passes - Bylaws Guide

Transportation Quebec 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Quebec

In Montréal, Quebec, public transit fares and passes are administered by regional and municipal transit authorities. This guide explains common fare types, who enforces fare rules, how to buy or reload passes, and what to do if you receive a ticket. It covers STM and ARTM fare categories and practical steps for riders to comply with fare rules and seek reviews or refunds where available.[1][3]

Keep proof of purchase until your trip is complete in case of a dispute.

Common Fare Types and Passes

Montréal riders use several fare media and passes depending on travel zone, age and program eligibility. Names and availability are set by transit agencies and may change based on regional decisions.

  • Single-ride tickets and transfers.
  • Monthly passes for unlimited zone travel within purchased zones.
  • Concession fares: student, senior, youth and reduced-fare programs.
  • Reloadable OPUS card and contactless bank/phone payments for eligible services.[2]

How fares are set and where to check

Regional fare structures, zone definitions and major pass products are published by the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM) and agency pages for the Société de transport de Montréal (STM). For current products and fare maps consult the agencies directly.[3]

Penalties & Enforcement

Fare compliance is enforced by transit inspectors and designated agents acting for the transit agency. Inspectors may require proof of valid fare or issue a notice for non-compliance. The exact sanction process and monetary amounts are determined by the enforcing agency or applicable regional rules.

  • Enforcer: STM inspectors and regional enforcement agents for services operating in Montréal.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited pages.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence policies are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: inspectors may require immediate payment, removal from vehicle or referral to court; specific measures vary by agency and are not fully itemized on the cited pages.
  • Inspection and complaint pathways: contact STM customer service or ARTM information channels to report disputes or request review.[1][3]
  • Appeals/review: procedures and time limits for appealing a ticket or notice are not specified on the cited pages; contact the issuing agency for instructions.
  • Defences/discretion: agencies may accept evidence of recent purchase or valid pass; special permits or program exceptions apply where published.
If issued a notice, keep all receipts and the inspector's identification details for any appeal.

Applications & Forms

Most fare products use online purchase or reload systems; the OPUS card is the standard reloadable fare medium described by STM. Official forms for appeals or refunds are not enumerated on the fare pages referenced; contact the issuing agency for the exact form name and submission steps.[2]

Many routine fare transactions can be completed online or at staffed stations.

How to Buy and Use Passes

Follow agency instructions to buy monthly passes, single fares or concession products. Use official websites or staffed counters for eligibility verification and to obtain physical OPUS cards if required.[1][2]

FAQ

Do I need an OPUS card to ride STM?
An OPUS card is a common reloadable medium, but many services accept single tickets, contactless bank cards or phone payments where supported; check the agency page for accepted media.[2]
What if I forget to validate my fare?
If you cannot show a valid fare to an inspector, you may receive a notice; follow the instructions on the notice and contact the issuing agency to dispute or pay as directed.
Where do I report fare evasion or problems with inspectors?
Report complaints to STM customer service or ARTM depending on the service; use the official contact channels listed in Help and Support / Resources below.[1][3]

How-To

  1. Visit the transit agency fare page to confirm eligible fare products and zones.[1]
  2. Create an account on the agency portal if required and choose the pass type and zone you need.
  3. Buy or reload a pass online, at a station kiosk or at a staffed counter; keep purchase confirmation until travel is complete.[2]
  4. If inspected and you believe the notice is incorrect, collect receipts and inspector details and contact the issuing agency to request a review.

Key Takeaways

  • Check STM and ARTM pages for current products and zone rules before travel.[1][3]
  • Keep proof of purchase and card evidence to support appeals.
  • Contact the issuing agency promptly for appeals or refunds.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] STM - Fares and ticketing information
  2. [2] STM - OPUS card and reload options
  3. [3] ARTM - Regional fares and zone information

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