Smartcard validation

In trams and trolleybuses the smartcard the fare is collected by devices called VALIDATORS.

The smartcard is not validated in buses! In the underground the card is validated by specially signed validators! If the card is topped up with journeys, the fare for the journey  cannot be collected in the buses and the underground!

During fare collection direct contact with the validator is not required. It is enough for the card to be at 1-2 cm or to touch the validator for 1-2 seconds without moving

If your card is invalid (the credited period has expired or the trips have finished); blocked or empty (no credit), the display of the validator will turn red and show the reason why the validation was unsuccessful, a sound is heard and the cross at top part of the validator turns red. 

If you have removed your card too fast for it to be read, UNSECCESSFUL VALIDATION will be displayed in red! You have to hold your card in place for longer!

By pressing the CARD VERIFICATION button, you may check the data on the card (validated period or remaining journeys).

SMARTCARD INSPECTION BY CONDUCTOR

The conductors inspect the smartcard with a special reader.

The card is placed on the keyboard of the device. The card data are read by the device. If the card is valid (hascredit, the period is valid and has been validated in the vehicle), the device approves the card. 

If the card has no credit, the period is invalid or the card has not been validated, the respective reason will appear on the display of the device. In such an event fines will be issued as per the stipulations in the Ordinance on Passenger Transport and Conditions of Travel on Mass Transit on the Territory of Sofia Municipality.