Metrobus commuters in Johannesburg are required to use prepaid tags after the service officially went cashless. Since October 2024, cash payments have no longer been accepted on Metrobus routes, affecting thousands of daily passengers across Gauteng. Commuters must now purchase and recharge a digital metrobus card at approved outlets to access services.
The shift to a cashless system changed how riders pay for trips, where they can buy tags, and how they top up balances. With the old cards phased out and smart tags introduced, understanding the correct process is now essential for anyone using Metrobus in Johannesburg.
Here is a clear breakdown of where to buy and recharge your Metrobus tag, what it costs, and what commuters should know in 2026.
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Metrobus Goes Fully Cashless
Metrobus transitioned to a fully cashless payment system as part of its modernisation programme, according to Metrobus executive manager of corporate strategy and business support, Tshepho Nathan.
From 1 October 2024:
- Cash fares were discontinued.
- Old Metrobus cards were phased out.
- New smart prepaid tags became mandatory.
- Commuters must tap in using prepaid credit.
According to Metrobus, the move was aimed at improving safety, reducing cash handling risks, and improving operational efficiency.
Commuters now rely entirely on prepaid tags that function similarly to prepaid phone cards.
Where to Purchase or Recharge Metrobus Tags
Metrobus confirmed that prepaid tags can be purchased and recharged at approved outlets across Johannesburg. It is generally cheaper to use prepaid tags rather than paying per trip in cash before the transition.
Below are the confirmed Metrobus prepaid tag outlets and their operating hours:
1. Gandhi Square (Johannesburg CBD)
Address: Main Street, Gandhi Square
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 05h30 – 18h30
- Saturday: 06h00 – 14h00
- Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
2. Cresta Mall
Address: Cresta Shopping Centre, Beyers Naude Drive (next to Homemark Entrance 1)
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 08h30 – 18h00
- Sunday: 09h00 – 15h00
3. Park Station (Braamfontein)
Address: Lower Level, Johannesburg Park Station (near Nando’s)
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 08h30 – 17h00
- Saturday: 08h30 – 13h00
- Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
4. Shoprite Ridgeway
Address: Swartgoud & Rifle Range Road, Ridgeway, 2091
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 08h00 – 18h00
- Sunday & Public Holidays: 08h00 – 14h00
5. Roodepoort Metrobus Depot
Address: 15 President Street, Princess, Roodepoort
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 08h30 – 18h00
- Saturday: 08h30 – 13h00
- Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
6. Rosebank Mall
Location: Opposite Pick n Pay
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 09h00 – 18h00
- Saturday: 09h00 – 17h00
- Sunday & Public Holidays: 09h00 – 16h00
Metrobus also operates five official sales outlets across Johannesburg, according to the City of Johannesburg.
How the Metrobus Tag System Works
The Metrobus prepaid tag system operates on a tap-in model.
Commuters must:
- Purchase a smart tag.
- Load credit onto the tag.
- Tap the tag when boarding.
- Ensure sufficient balance before travelling.
New smart tags were introduced at a cost of R35 when the system launched. Registered passengers were required to link the tag to an active mobile number for one-time pin verification.
The first 10,000 qualifying passengers received registered tags free during the initial rollout phase.
Why Metrobus Eliminated Cash Payments
According to Metrobus management, the cashless transition aimed to:
- Reduce theft and loss risks.
- Improve hygiene by eliminating cash handling.
- Speed up boarding times.
- Improve revenue tracking and operational control.
The system also aligns with broader City of Johannesburg digital mobility strategies.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
For Johannesburg commuters, particularly in Soweto, Roodepoort, the CBD, and Braamfontein, the change means planning before boarding.
There is no option to pay cash on the bus.
Commuters must:
- Ensure their tag is loaded before travel.
- Visit a sales outlet during operating hours.
- Monitor balances to avoid travel disruptions.
This impacts students, workers, pensioners, and daily commuters who rely on Metrobus for affordable transport across Gauteng.
With limited sales outlets and specific operating times, commuters may need to plan recharges outside peak work hours.
How to Get Help with Metrobus Queries
For route information, recharge issues, or assistance:
- Metrobus Call Centre: 011 375 5555 (Option 6, then Option 1)
- General City of Johannesburg Queries: 0860 562 874
- Email: customer.serv@mbus.joburg.org.za
Metrobus encourages commuters to contact support before travel if they encounter tag issues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Commuters frequently experience delays due to:
- Arriving at closed outlets.
- Forgetting to recharge tags.
- Not registering the tag properly.
- Losing the tag without reporting it.
Registered tags may offer better recovery options if lost, depending on system policies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I still pay cash on Metrobus?
No. Cash payments were discontinued on 1 October 2024.
2. How much does a new Metrobus tag cost?
The smart tag initially launched at R35. Pricing updates may vary.
3. Can I recharge my tag online?
Metrobus primarily supports recharges at approved physical outlets.
4. What happens if my tag runs out of credit?
You will not be allowed to travel until the tag is recharged.
5. How many official Metrobus sales outlets are there?
Metrobus operates five primary sales outlets across Johannesburg.
What Happens Next?
Metrobus continues operating under the cashless model introduced in 2024. Additional outlets were expected during the rollout phase, but commuters are advised to verify operating hours before visiting.
As Johannesburg expands digital public transport systems, prepaid and contactless payment systems are expected to become standard across municipal services.
For now, Metrobus users must ensure they have a valid prepaid tag and sufficient balance before boarding.
Further updates will be issued by Metrobus or the City of Johannesburg should payment policies change.
