Metro Micro Fares & Ride Guide: On-Demand Transit

How It's Changing the System

• On-Demand Flexibility: Instead of forcing riders to plan their day around rigid bus timetables, Metro Micro allows you to summon an ADA-accessible minibus exactly when you need it. 
• Optimized Routing: The service uses smart algorithms to pool passengers traveling in a similar direction. The route adjusts dynamically to pick up or drop off multiple riders along the way. 
• Door-to-Destination Convenience: In midwestern markets like Minneapolis-St. Paul, it acts as a door-to-door or curb-to-curb service, picking you up right at your exact address and taking you straight to your destination within designated zones. (Note: In the LA County Metro Micro system, service is "stop-to-stop," meaning it picks you up at nearby major intersections or landmarks rather than your exact front door). 
• System Integration: It helps people easily connect to the broader local bus and rail networks, providing an affordable "first-mile/last-mile" solution for commuters.

💰 Fares and Cost Structure

The service is heavily subsidized to remain drastically cheaper than traditional private rideshares.

• Standard Fare: Typically costs $2.50 for a base fare.
• Peak Fares: In some regions, the fare increases to $3.25 during peak rush hours.
• Free Transfers: If you pay using a regional transit smart card (like a TAP card or Go-To Card), your fare includes a free 2.5-hour transfer to local buses or light rail lines.
• Payment Methods: You can pay directly inside the app with a credit/debit card, use your linked transit smart card, or pay with cash when boarding the minibus. 

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📱 How to Order a Ride via the App

1. Download the App: Search for and download the official Metro Micro app from the Apple App Storeor Google Play Store.
2. Set Up Your Account: Create a profile and link your preferred payment method (credit card or transit card).
3. Request a Ride: Enter your pickup location and destination. Ensure both locations reside entirely within the designated service zone boundaries.
4. Choose Your Timing: Select the "Leave Now" feature for immediate pickup based on real-time availability, or schedule your trip up to 7 days in advance.
5. Meet Your Bus: Track the minibus in real time through the app. Ensure you are at the designated pickup spot on time, as drivers will only wait up to two minutes upon arrival.

📞 How to Order a Ride by Phone

If you do not have a smartphone or prefer speaking to an agent, you can book your trip over the phone.

• How It's Changing the System
  • On-Demand Flexibility: Instead of forcing riders to plan their day around rigid bus timetables, Metro Micro allows you to summon an ADA-accessible minibus exactly when you need it.
  • Optimized Routing: The service uses smart algorithms to pool passengers traveling in a similar direction. The route adjusts dynamically to pick up or drop off multiple riders along the way. 
  • Door-to-Destination Convenience: In midwestern markets like Minneapolis-St. Paul, it acts as a door-to-door or curb-to-curb service, picking you up right at your exact address and taking you straight to your destination within designated zones. (Note: In the LA County Metro Micro system, service is "stop-to-stop," meaning it picks you up at nearby major intersections or landmarks rather than your exact front door). 
  • System Integration: It helps people easily connect to the broader local bus and rail networks, providing an affordable "first-mile/last-mile" solution for commuters.
  💰 Fares and Cost Structure
  The service is heavily subsidized to remain drastically cheaper than traditional private rideshares. 
  • Standard Fare: Typically costs $2.50 for a base fare.
  • Peak Fares: In some regions, the fare increases to $3.25 during peak rush hours.
  • Free Transfers: If you pay using a regional transit smart card (like a TAP card or Go-To Card), your fare includes a free 2.5-hour transfer to local buses or light rail lines.
  • Payment Methods: You can pay directly inside the app with a credit/debit card, use your linked transit smart card, or pay with cash when boarding the minibus. 

  ---

  📱 How to Order a Ride via the App
  1. Download the App: Search for and download the official Metro Micro app from the Apple App Storeor Google Play Store.
  2. Set Up Your Account: Create a profile and link your preferred payment method (credit card or transit card).
  3. Request a Ride: Enter your pickup location and destination. Ensure both locations reside entirely within the designated service zone boundaries.
  4. Choose Your Timing: Select the "Leave Now" feature for immediate pickup based on real-time availability, or schedule your trip up to 7 days in advance.
  5. Meet Your Bus: Track the minibus in real time through the app. Ensure you are at the designated pickup spot on time, as drivers will only wait up to two minutes upon arrival. 
  📞 How to Order a Ride by Phone
  If you do not have a smartphone or prefer speaking to an agent, you can book your trip over the phone. 
  • Twin Cities Region: Call 651-602-1170 to book your ride with a live customer service representative.
  • Los Angeles Region: Call 323-GO-METRO (323-466-3876) to speak to an agent and schedule a minibus.
  Twin Cities Region: Call 651-602-1170 to book your ride with a live customer service representative.
• Los Angeles Region: Call 323-GO-METRO (323-466-3876) to speak to an agent and schedule a minibus.

**Legal Disclaimer**  

This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only. The information provided above is a breakdown compiled for the convenience of commuter transit passengers in the South Metro area. This website is entirely independent and is **not operated by, sponsored by, or affiliated with the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA)**. While we strive to keep transit schedules, routes, and hub listings up to date, routes and connections are subject to change by the transit authority without notice. Always verify live arrival times and service alerts directly through official MVTA transit channels before planning your trip.