Lines and stations
Metrorail has six colour-coded lines and 98 stations. Average weekday ridership was about 521,000 in March 2026. Central stations such as Metro Center, Gallery Place and L'Enfant Plaza let you change between lines.
The Silver Line reaches Washington Dulles International Airport, opened in November 2022. Reagan National Airport has its own station on the Blue and Yellow lines.
Fares and passes
On weekdays, a single trip costs $2.25 to $6.75 depending on distance. After 21:30 on weekdays and all day at weekends, trips cost $2.25 to $2.50. Metrobus costs $2.25.
Unlimited passes cost $13.50 for one day, $33.75 for three days and $60.75 for seven days. A pass is worth it if you make several trips a day.
Metro has proposed higher fares from 1 July 2027, with a maximum of $7.50. Check wmata.com for current prices.
How to pay
Tap a contactless credit or debit card, or a phone wallet, at the faregate. You can also use a SmarTrip card or the SmarTrip app. Tap in and tap out, because fares are calculated by distance.
Seniors 65 and over and people with disabilities can get half-price fares with the right card.
Tips for travellers
For the National Mall and the Smithsonian museums, use Smithsonian, Federal Triangle or L'Enfant Plaza stations.
Stand on the right on escalators. Eating and drinking are not allowed on trains.
From Dulles Airport the Silver Line is the cheapest way into the city, but the trip takes longer than a taxi. Leave extra time on weekends when trains are less frequent.
Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.
