Detroit Transit Agencies Launch Dart App for Mobile Transit Payments and Passes, Powered by Passport

Beginning today, transit riders in Detroit can use the new Dart mobile app to pay for transit passes. Dart is the unified payment system that enables customers to buy transit passes that can be used on Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) fixed-route buses and the QLINE streetcar. Now with the Dart mobile app, customers can buy Dart passes directly on their smartphones.

The Dart app, created by Passport, is an innovative way to purchase transit passes. Users download the app, create an account with payment information and then, buy passes directly on their phones. Upon purchase, users have immediate access to an electronic pass. With the Dart app, users can select a 4-hour, 24-hour, 7-day or 31-day pass at standard or reduced fare rates. Currently, the app features Dart passes, but will support individual agency passes in the future.

“Today is a big step towards making it easier to ride transit in the Detroit region,” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “The Dart mobile app is another demonstration of DDOT, SMART, and QLINE leadership and staff working together to improve the transit experience for our residents.”

“We are excited to launch the new Dart mobile app to the City of Detroit and Southeast Michigan region," said Angelica Jones, interim director, Detroit Department of Transportation. “Our goal is to make transit a system of choice for everyone, and this is just the beginning of continuous transit improvements for our customers.”

“We are happy that after years of talking about ways to collaborate with DDOT and make it easier for riders to pay on either system, that we are finally doing it. Our number one goal is to benefit the riding public and the Dart app does just that,” said John C. Hertel, general manager of SMART, “It’s been great working with the Duggan administration and DDOT on these cooperative ventures which have been hoped for by many for so long.”

Passport works with the City of Detroit on a number of transportation initiatives, including the Park Detroit mobile app for parking. Detroit is also a part of the company’s micro-mobility pilot program to test electric scooter pricing models.

“We are thrilled to continue our work with the city of Detroit to power the new Dart regional transit app,” said Tom Weise, sales executive at Passport. “With the app, we can make it easier for customers to pay for transit passes and encourage transit ridership throughout the Detroit area.”

Users can download the Dart app from the App Store or Google Play store and can visit thedartapp.com for more information.

About Passport 

Passport is transforming mobility management for cities, empowering them to create more livable and equitable communities. Passport’s mobility platform enables clients to digitally coordinate all modes of transportation and implement real-time, data-centric management of their curbside and street space through its enterprise software. Trusted by nearly 1,000 cities, universities and agencies, including Chicago, Toronto, London, Los Angeles, and Miami, Passport is one of the fastest-growing companies on the Inc. 500 and Deloitte Technology Fast 5000 lists. Passport is backed by Bain Capital Ventures, Grotech Ventures, MK Capital, and Relevance Capital. For more information, visit passportinc.com.