RideMETRO Fare Cards

Rice University is located adjacent to METRO Red Line light rail corridor. This system connects Rice with downtown Houston, Midtown, the Museum District, the Texas Medical Center, and the Reliant Park complex. Additionally, numerous bus stops are within walking distance of the Rice campus, including the 26/27, 73, 8, and 34, among others.

The METRO Ride Sponsor partnership enables Rice University students to obtain a RideMETRO Fare Card for use on regularly scheduled METRO transportation services, including light rail. Student Fare Cards offer a 50% discount on ride fares for local METRO bus and light-rail service, at $0.60 per ride.

In April 2026, METRO launched their new RideMETRO Fare System to improve the rider experience and offer a simpler, faster way to choose transit. This new system replaced the old METRO Q Card System, and all previously issued Q Cards have since been deactivated. As a result, students will need to obtain a New RideMETRO Fare Card to begin or continue riding the METRO.

RideMETRO Card

The following RideMETRO program has been established for Rice students during the 2026-2027 Academic Year:

Eligibility Requirements

  • Rice University Undergraduate and Graduate Students
  • Actively enrolled in an on-campus, degree-seeking program
  • Must present a valid Rice ID Card

Card Benefits

  • Discounted Fares
  • Each card is preloaded with $6.00 in rides
  • Each card is automatically replenished by Rice as funds are used, up to $30.00 in rides per month
  • Additional rides may be purchased at a discounted rate with student-provided funds

Card Fees

  • New RideMETRO Fare Card - A $2.00 fee will be billed through the Payment Suite in ESTHER to purchase a new card. This card can be used for the entire academic year.
  • Replacement RideMETRO Fare Card - A $25.00 fee will be billed through the Payment Suite in ESTHER to purchase a replacement card if you lose or misplace your card.

How to Request a RideMETRO Fare Card

  1. Log into ESTHER.
  2. Under Students - Account Summary and Financial Aid, select METRO Fare Card Request.
  3. Review the Terms of Service and select the option for a New or Replacement Card.
  4. Submit your request and check your Rice email for eligibility.
  5. Further instructions will be provided for picking up your card at the Bursar's Office.

Lost or Stolen Cards

  • Lost or stolen cards should be reported to the Bursar's Office as soon as possible.
  • Please email bursar@rice.edu to report a lost or stolen RideMETRO Fare Card.
  • Replacement Cards can be requested in ESTHER for a $25.00 fee.

FAQs

Can I use the RideMETRO App to pay my fare?

No. RideSponsor participants cannot convert their issued cards to a virtual card or use the app to pay their fare. However, the RideMETRO app is useful for trip planning, checking arrival/departure times, and viewing service alerts.

Can I load my own funds onto my RideMETRO Fare Card?

Yes, but it is not recommended. Our RideMETRO Fare Cards will automatically provide up to $30.00 in rides each month.

Can I check my balance with the new Metro system?

Yes. You will need to create a RideMETRO account at https://fares.ridemetro.org/ and register your card number (found on the back of the physical card).