sõidukaardil

Sõidukaart is a term used in Estonia for a public transport smart card that pays fares on buses, trams, and trains. Cards are issued by transport authorities or operators and can store either cash value or a time-based travel pass. The system is designed to simplify fare collection, reduce cash handling, and enable flexible travel across services within a region.

There are several card variants. Personal (registered) cards are linked to the holder’s identity, allowing for refunds, age or concession discounts, and travel history tracking. Anonymous cards carry a stored value without identifying the user. Some networks also offer concession cards for students, seniors, and other groups, as well as monthly or multi-ride passes.

How it works. The card is loaded with funds or a pass through online accounts, mobile apps, ticket machines, or service points. When boarding a vehicle, the passenger taps the card on a validator. The fare is deducted according to the applicable zone, distance, or the active time-based pass. In many networks, a single tap on boarding is required, with validation ensuring the card has sufficient value or an active pass.

Security and management. Cards are reusable and can be protected by PIN or other means. If a card is lost or stolen and linked to an account, it can be canceled and the remaining value or pass may be restored to a replacement card.

Reloading and support. Top-ups and passes are typically available online, via mobile apps, at ticket machines, or through customer service points. Regional rules, fare structures, and card names vary between operators and areas in Estonia.