How to Use the Commuter Rail Fare Gates At South Station

A Quick and Stress-Free Guide for Riders

If you’ve ever taken a ride on the Commuter Rail, you’re probably familiar with the Commuter Rail fare gate system. New riders, don’t worry! We have broken down everything you need to know about how to operate the gates like a pro, which will be a handy skill to have in your back pocket. 

What is a Commuter Rail Fare Gate? 

Fare gates are an automated gate system that requires riders to scan or tap their ticket or pass to enter and exit the Commuter Rail track area. You can use the fare gates with valid Commuter Rail and Amtrak tickets for entry and exit. Fare gates accept all tickets or passes that are currently accepted on the Commuter Rail. For the full list of fares accepted visit the MBTA website. 

How To Scan Tickets With Barcodes 

When approaching the gate, scan mTicket, Amtrak tickets, or paper tickets from Conductors on the barcode reader screen. Scan the ticket the same way you would a coupon at a self-checkout. Remember to hold the barcode on the ticket/smartphone facedown and keep it still above or on the screen. 

The scanner may take a few seconds to process, so keep the barcode on your ticket or smartphone still until a green check mark appears and the gates open. If you see a red cross, present the barcode again. If the ticket or pass continues to present a red X, find a nearby Customer Service representative for further assistance. 

How To Tap Your CharlieTicket or CharlieCard 

Riders traveling with a CharlieTicket or CharlieCard should tap their ticket on the black box positioned below the screen. For a CharlieCard to be accepted at a Commuter Rail fare gate, it must have a printed zone and date on it. Keep the ticket in place until a green check mark appears and the gates open. If you see a red cross, tap your ticket/pass again.

Special Advisory For Fairmount Line Riders 

Fairmount Line riders using a CharlieCard must validate their fare before entering or exiting the fare gates:

Starting your trip at South Station? 

First, validate your CharlieCard at the fare vending machines near the ticket office, then tap your card at the gate to enter.

Ending your trip at South Station? 

See a conductor on board or station staff on the platform to get an exit ticket, then scan it at the reader to exit the gate.

Fairmount Line riders, check out this video for extra guidance!

Be Prepared When Approaching Gates

You will need to make sure you have a valid ticket/pass, and mTickets are activated. Keep your ticket with you for the entire trip, and if you have a round-trip ticket, hold onto it until your final ride is complete. Before entering or exiting the station, have your ticket or mTicket app ready at the fare gates. If your ticket is hard to find or your phone is running slowly, please step aside and let others pass to keep everyone moving smoothly. 

Before heading to the fare gates and the track area at South Station, please wait for your train to be announced, which is usually 10 minutes before its arrival. After boarding, the conductor will still check tickets to confirm zones, so be sure not to lose track of your ticket.

Customer Service Employees are at the Gates

If you have any questions or need assistance, ask one of the Fare Gate Attendants wearing a vibrant yellow and purple vest. They are nearby and ready to help!