Loading Page...

Do Clipper cards ever expire?

No, Clipper never expires.



Standard Clipper cards used for transit in the San Francisco Bay Area do not expire, and the cash value loaded onto them remains valid indefinitely. However, the physical card itself can eventually wear out or become technologically obsolete. In 2026, while the older plastic cards still function, the system has largely transitioned to Clipper on mobile devices (Apple Wallet and Google Pay). For specialized cards, such as the Clipper Access (formerly RTC) for persons with disabilities or certain "Free Muni" cards for seniors, there is an "eligibility expiration date" printed on the account. These users must renew their eligibility every few years to continue receiving discounted or free fares. If a physical card is lost or stolen, the balance can be transferred to a new card for a small $3 fee, provided the card was registered online beforehand.

People Also Ask

6.1. 2 All Youth and Senior Clipper® cards, as well as RTC Discount Cards and cards loaded with the Clipper® START(SM) discount, are automatically registered, not transferable, and can be used only by the person identified in the Clipper® customer database.

MORE DETAILS

Registered cardholders can complete and sign a form authorizing another individual to act on behalf of the cardholder. To request a form and find out more information about the authorization requirements, please contact Clipper Customer Service at 877.878. 8883 (TDD/TTY 711 or 800.735. 2929).

MORE DETAILS

Clipper is accepted on buses, trains, and ferries throughout the Bay Area. With your Clipper card in Wallet, you can easily get where you need to go with just your iPhone or Apple Watch.

MORE DETAILS

Load cash value at self-serve machines (including BART ticket machines), retailers, transit agency ticket offices and Clipper Customer Service Centers or online, by phone or through your transit benefit program.

MORE DETAILS

When will my card automatically reload? If you set up Autoload for cash value, when your balance falls below $10, Clipper will automatically reload you card when you pay your next fare. If you set it up for a pass, Clipper will automatically reload a new pass on your card when the old one expires.

MORE DETAILS

Transferring with Clipper Unlimited free rides for 2 hours from first boarding Muni. Between 8:30 p.m. and 5 a.m., unlimited late-night transfers are in effect. Learn more about unlimited late-night transfers. Discounted ride within 2 hours of boarding AC Transit.

MORE DETAILS

Clipper Cards can be purchased at the SFO BART Station upon arrival.

MORE DETAILS

Disadvantages
  • Clipper ships are not well–suited for carrying large amounts of cargo, as they are not very stable in the water.
  • Clipper ships are more prone to capsizing in rough seas due to their light construction.


MORE DETAILS