- BVG to abolish cash payments on buses
Starting September 1st, ticket purchases on Berlin's public transport buses, operated by the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG), will only be possible without cash. Around 99% of passengers now board with a valid ticket, according to the BVG. On average, passengers now buy only three cash tickets per day and bus - this decision significantly relieves bus drivers, the BVG stated. The change is also intended to make the process easier and faster for passengers.
Those without a Germany ticket, Berlin pass, or other time cards who don't purchase their ticket via app or beforehand at an automated machine can pay with Giro and common credit cards, digital services like Apple or Google Pay, or a rechargeable BVG credit card. These are available at customer centers and Lotto Berlin outlets. Plans include expanding the sales network with new partners such as newsstands, retail stores, and gas stations.
For bus drivers, this means no more cash handling and till reconciliation. In the current challenging staff situation, this is an important step in the right direction for employees, the BVG stated. Information on connections, stops, and fares will continue to be available.
This shift in ticket purchasing methods means that cash payments for tickets on Berlin's buses will be significantly reduced. Since only three cash tickets are sold per day and bus on average, the new policy is expected to simplify the process for passengers and bus drivers alike.
