San Diego Metropolitan Transit System riders who pay with eligible Mastercard products can now receive monthly rebates through a new rewards program that runs through the end of 2027. The initiative provides a $2.50 statement credit to qualifying cardholders who spend at least $10 on transit fares during any calendar month.
The program is open to holders of eligible Mastercard consumer and small business debit and credit cards. To qualify, riders must use contactless payment methods when tapping their cards or digital wallets at fare validators throughout the MTS network. Statement credits are automatically issued within 60 days once the monthly spending requirement is met.
MTS Board Chair Stephen Whitburn, who also serves on the San Diego City Council, said the program returns money to riders while promoting modern payment technology. He noted the initiative supports the transit agency's ongoing work to upgrade fare systems and enhance customer experience throughout the region.
Mastercard executive Kamila Chytil explained the program rewards routine spending patterns while providing added convenience and security. San Diego joins 11 other major North American transit systems now participating in the Mastercard Public Transit Benefit program. MTS has recorded more than 4.27 million contactless payment transactions across its system to date.
The Metropolitan Transit System operates 93 bus routes and four trolley lines serving 10 cities and unincorporated areas of San Diego County. The agency transports more than 250,000 passenger trips on weekdays and served over 81 million riders in fiscal year 2026.