Riding San Francisco's historic cable cars (often called "trolleys") is a must-do experience, but the ticketing process has changed recently. To ensure a smooth ride, it is best to plan your payment before you reach the turnaround.
You can use a physical Clipper card or add it to your mobile wallet (Apple Pay/Google Pay). Simply tap the card reader when the conductor asks for your fare. buy trolley tickets san francisco
This is the most recommended way to buy tickets. You can purchase them instantly on your phone and activate them just before boarding. Riding San Francisco's historic cable cars (often called
$12.00 (up from $9.00 in previous years). Note: This is for a one-way trip only; no transfers are allowed. Simply tap the card reader when the conductor
The SFMTA recently updated its budget, affecting cable car pricing for 2026:
You can pay the conductor directly, but you must have exact change . Conductors cannot provide change for large bills. Fare Options (Effective 2026)
Riding San Francisco's historic cable cars (often called "trolleys") is a must-do experience, but the ticketing process has changed recently. To ensure a smooth ride, it is best to plan your payment before you reach the turnaround.
You can use a physical Clipper card or add it to your mobile wallet (Apple Pay/Google Pay). Simply tap the card reader when the conductor asks for your fare.
This is the most recommended way to buy tickets. You can purchase them instantly on your phone and activate them just before boarding.
$12.00 (up from $9.00 in previous years). Note: This is for a one-way trip only; no transfers are allowed.
The SFMTA recently updated its budget, affecting cable car pricing for 2026:
You can pay the conductor directly, but you must have exact change . Conductors cannot provide change for large bills. Fare Options (Effective 2026)