The Electronic Payment System for Paid Public Transport of Persons (SPETP) will allow users to access all public transport services through electronic payment such as debit, credit and prepaid cards, in order to increase the efficiency of rate collection and provide a higher quality service to the population. Through a press release, the Costa Rican Government informed of the approval of the project’s comprehensive design and the roadmap for the execution of its first phases.
As part of the functions division between the different institutions involved, the Central Bank will be in charge of the construction and operation of the central collection system, as a service integrated into the platform of the National System of Electronic Payments (SINPE).
The SPETP will be implemented gradually, starting with the train service, followed by urban routes in and around Greater Metropolitan Area, to cover the Greater Metropolitan Area, and then spread to the rest of the country. The electronic payment system will be beneficial for everyone.
It will be the first electronic payment system in the region based on two types of payment methods: those that meet the EMV (Europay-Mastercard-Visa) specifications and have proximity payment technology (contactless), as well as mobile phones with an application that generates QR codes.
In order to guarantee everyone’s access to public transport services, the payment in cash will continue to be accepted until it is determined that it is no longer necessary. The electronic payment system also facilitates the process of transferring passengers quickly and easily.
Benefits of the Electronic Payment System for Public Transport:
- Agile and faster access to public transport service.
- Significant savings by operators in handling cash.
- Better security conditions without cash on board.
- Better health conditions for users and drivers.
- Integration of rates and savings on trips that include more than one service.
- Better quality of service and mobility planning.
