Get Free OMNY Cards as MTA Ends MetroCard Era
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is transitioning from the old MetroCard system to the new OMNY initiative. New Yorkers can obtain a complimentary OMNY card at select subway stations starting November 18, 2023. This promotion coincides with the discontinuation of MetroCard sales set for December 31, 2023.
Details of the Promotion
To participate, the first 400 customers who transfer their MetroCard balances at designated MTA customer service centers can get the OMNY card for free. This initiative is intended to help riders adapt to the new tap-and-ride system effortlessly.
- The free OMNY cards are available at various locations across the five boroughs.
- Without this giveaway, the price of an OMNY card varies from $1 to $5.
- The fare for subway and bus rides will rise from $2.90 to $3 in January.
Locations for Free OMNY Cards
Commuters can acquire their free OMNY card at the following stations:
- The Bronx: 161 St-Yankee Stadium, Fordham Rd., Parkchester
- Brooklyn: Atlantic Ave.-Barclays Center, Coney Island-Stillwell Ave., Myrtle-Wyckoff Ave.
- Manhattan: 34 St-Penn Station, 125 St., 168 St., Fulton St., Grand Central-42nd St., Times Square-42nd St.
- Queens: Flushing-Main St., Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave., Sutphin Blvd.-Archer Ave.-JFK Airport
- Staten Island: St. George (Staten Island Railway operating Monday to Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
Transitioning to OMNY
MTA officials are dedicated to making the transition as smooth as possible. Shanifah Rieara, MTA Chief Customer Officer, emphasized the importance of providing resources at customer service centers throughout the system. Demetrius Crichlow, NYC Transit President, stated the initiative aims to facilitate the shift to OMNY.
Despite the move to OMNY, MetroCards will continue to be accepted until 2026. Commuters are encouraged to use any remaining balance on their cards. In addition, balances on expired MetroCards will remain eligible for transfer or reimbursement for two years post-expiration.
