UCLA Tap Card Activation : How do I Activate my free TAP card?

UCLA TAP card is a great way to get around Los Angeles using public transportation.

Here’s a breakdown of how it works and how to get one:

What is the UCLA TAP card?

It’s a reusable smart card that lets you pay for rides on various public transportation systems in Los Angeles County, including:

Bruin U-Pass: Provides unlimited rides on LA Metro for UCLA undergraduate students.
Bruin Grad Pass: Offers subsidized transit passes for eligible graduate students.
Co-pay option: Allows students and employees to load a discounted fare onto their TAP card for Santa Monica Big Blue Bus and Culver CityBus.

Bruin U-Pass:
- Log in to BruinTAP for Transit (<https://transportation.ucla.edu/getting-to-ucla/public-transit/bruin-u-pass>) using your UCLA Logon ID.
- Complete the Metro survey.
- Select “Bruin U-Pass” and choose your delivery method (mail or pick up).
Bruin Grad Pass:
- Check your eligibility and application process on the UCLA Transportation website (https://transportation.ucla.edu/getting-to-ucla/public-transit/bruin-grad-pass).
Co-pay option:
- Access the BruinTAP for Transit Portal (<https://transportation.ucla.edu/getting-to-ucla/public-transit/ucla-co-pay>) using your UCLA Logon ID.
- Select the “Co-Pay Product” and follow the instructions.
Purchasing a new TAP card:
- If you need a new TAP card (not a U-Pass or Grad Pass), you can purchase one online through the BruinTAP for Transit Portal and choose to have it mailed or pick it up at the Central Ticket Office.

Bruin U-Pass and Grad Pass: Your card will be activated automatically once you complete the online process.
Co-pay option: You’ll receive an activation code in your order confirmation email. Enter this code on the TAP website to activate your co-pay.

Simply tap your card on the TAP dial at the farebox when boarding buses or entering train stations.

Important note: If you lose your TAP card, you can purchase a replacement online for a $2 fee.