To use your U-PASS on a transit service, tap it on an ORCA card reader. These readers are found at the front of buses or mounted on a wall or pole at Link, Sounder or Swift stations.

  • RapidRide stations: you have the option to tap on the ORCA reader at the station or on the bus as you enter. After tapping, wait for the green light to indicate your card was accepted.
  • Buses: tap the reader just once, when you board.
  • Link light rail and Sounder commuter trains: tap the reader once before entering the train for proof of payment and tap again at your destination station as you leave.

It is important to protect your Husky Card and the U-PASS RFID chip from damage. We encourage you to follow these tips to protect your Husky Card and U-PASS:

  • Do not bend your Husky Card.
  • Do not punch a hole anywhere in your Husky Card.
  • Keep your Husky Card in a protective holder. Scratches to the magnetic strip and RFID chip can damage your card. Accessories to protect your card can be purchased at the Husky Card Account & ID Center.

The U-PASS function on your Husky Card does not have “Electronic Purse” capabilities.

Troubleshooting

If you tap your U-PASS on an ORCA card reader and you don’t get a beep and green light:

  • try again, making sure to tap your card on the ORCA logo at the center of the card reader
  • hold your card there for several seconds
  • separate your Husky Card from any other cards with RFID technology
  • check for the ORCA logo on your Husky Card - if your ID is old and doesn't have the RFID chip, you will need to get a new card

If you still do not get a positive response, contact Transportation Services at 253-692-5926 or transit@uw.edu as soon as you are able. Please provide the following:

  • Your name and UW ID number
  • Name of the transit agency you were taking
  • The route number
  • Destination
  • The time you boarded the bus or train
  • Bus vehicle number, located inside the bus above the windshield as well as outside on the sides and back of the vehicle