Returning to work or school after two years when gas prices are at an all-time high and traffic levels are on the rise is sure cause for worry and stress! This article is part of a series about how VTA can help you getting back to the office stress-free, riding public transit and saving money at the same time.

It’s no secret that riding transit is already cheaper than driving alone…but did you know you could save even more money when you use Clipper Card to pay your fare?

Let’s start with the basics:

• Need to take multiple buses or light rail lines on VTA? Transfers are free for two hours if you use Clipper. 
• Thinking of becoming a frequent daily rider at some point? Just think of how much you could save buying a monthly pass, available on Clipper only. 
• Rather pay for fare with your phone? Download the Clipper mobile app and transfer your Clipper Card for mobile use! This will deactivate your physical Clipper Card but there are benefits to using the app, such as loading funds onto your Clipper card for immediate use. 

Your company or college may already work with VTA to offer sustainable commute options and help you save money in the process.  

• See if your company or college offers the VTA SmartPass on Clipper Card, which would give you free, unlimited rides on VTA buses (excluding VTA Express buses) and light rail. If so, reach out to your HR or benefits coordinator and get your VTA SmartPass activated ASAP! 

• Work for a company at Stanford Research Park? Thanks to SRP’s sponsorship through the Express Bus Partnership Program, SRP employees can use their VTA SmartPass for free, unlimited rides on VTA’s Express buses in addition to the rest of VTA’s bus and light rail network.   
• Returning to work at Moffett Park in Sunnyvale? Exciting news – the Express Route 121 is returning on June 13th! With Juniper Networks and Lockheed Martin’s sponsorship of the route, employees of those two companies can also enjoy the full benefits of using their VTA SmartPass on VTA’s bus, light rail, and Express bus network. 

If you have any questions regarding the Clipper Card or VTA SmartPass, our customer service representatives will be happy to help you. Call us at (408) 321-2300 Monday to Friday from 6 am to 7 pm and Saturday from 7:30 am to 4 pm. If you prefer, send us an email: customer.service@vta.org