Using Clipper on Caltrain

Clipper is now available to all Caltrain customers. Clipper customers can pay for rides on Caltrain by adding a Monthly Pass or 8-ride Ticket to their card, or by using cash. Please see the "Fares and Passes" page for more information on the types of value available. To use Clipper on Caltrain, customers must always have $1.25 in cash on their Clipper card, even if they are using a Monthly Pass or 8-ride Ticket. For more information on the minimum cash requirement, please click here.

Please note: SamTrans and VTA do not yet accept Clipper, so transfer fare credits to these transit systems are not currently available with Clipper. If you use the Caltrain transfer privileges with either SamTrans or VTA, please continue to use a paper pass until Clipper is available on these systems.

To use Clipper on Caltrain, locate the Clipper card reader on the station or platform. Tag your card by holding it to the Clipper logo on the reader, making sure to hold the card flat. Wait for the beep and the green light. The card reader will also show your available balance, the expiration date of your pass, or remaining rides.You must tag off at your destination station by holding your card to the Clipper logo on the card reader. Doing this ensures that you are not overcharged for your trip and that any passes or tickets on your card are properly acknowledged.

You will tag your card at the beginning and end of each ride if you are paying with cash or an 8-ride ticket. If you are using a monthly pass, you will tag at the beginning and end of your first ride of the month.

Download the Caltrain customer guide to learn more about using your Clipper card on Caltrain.