Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch. Tap Wallet & Apple Pay, then tap Express Mode. Tap the card you want to use, then enter your Apple Watch passcode. As you approach a fare gate or board the bus, make sure your Apple Watch is turned on (it doesn't need to be connected to a network).

Using your Apple Watch for the New York City subway in 2026 is seamless thanks to the OMNY (One Metro New York) contactless system. To begin, ensure you have a credit or debit card added to the Wallet app on your watch. For the fastest experience, enable "Express Mode" in your Watch settings: go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > Express Mode and select your preferred card. With Express Mode active, you do not need to wake or unlock your watch, nor do you need to double-click the side button; simply tap the face of your watch against the OMNY reader at the turnstile. A green light and a "Go" message will appear instantly. This works for all subway lines and MTA buses. In 2026, the OMNY system also automatically applies "fare capping," meaning if you use the same Apple Watch for 12 rides in a week (Monday–Sunday), every subsequent ride that week is free. You don't need a physical MetroCard or a network connection for the tap to work, as the encrypted token is stored locally on your device.