Yes, you can pay by card on all buses in York, North Yorkshire. As of 2026, the city's main operators, including First York and Transdev, use a "Tap On, Tap Off" contactless payment system. This allows passengers to use a contactless credit card, debit card, or mobile wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) to pay for their fare without needing to buy a physical ticket from the driver. The system automatically calculates the best fare for your journey and "caps" the daily or weekly cost, ensuring you never pay more than the price of a Day or Week ticket. While cash is still technically accepted on most routes, it is discouraged, and drivers often have limited change. For visitors, using a contactless card is the most efficient and cost-effective way to navigate the city's bus network and the popular Park & Ride services.