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Q: How does the VRE mobile application work?
- A: With VRE Mobile, riders can buy and use fares (tickets and passes) for VRE Commuter Rail at anytime, from anywhere directly from their smartphone.
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Q: Will the VRE Mobile application allow me to use my SmartBenefits?
- A: Yes. SmartBenefits funds may be used to purchase VRE tickets and passes. VRE Riders must first allocate their SmartBenefits to VRE Mobile - then add their SmartBenefits account number (the serial number on the SmarTrip® card) to the app as a form of payment.
When the rider is ready to complete a purchase, simply enter the debit, credit and/or SmartBenefits information. The ticket is then delivered to the "My Tickets" section of the app for use. Store the information for future purchases, and your funds will automatically be available in VRE Mobile on the first day of each month!
For more information on how to allocate your SmartBenefits to the VRE Mobile app, please visit vre.org/mobile or WMATA Tutorial Page. -
Q: How do I get the VRE app?
- A: Download the free, official VRE Mobile app from the Apple and Android app stores directly onto your phones. After completing an order in VRE Mobile, tickets and passes are delivered instantly to the phone.
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Q: How do I start using the app?
- A: To start, VRE riders create an account. Creating an account provides the rider with the ability to manage tickets, credit card information and account information.
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Q: How do I purchase a ticket?
- A: To purchase a ticket, the user simply selects the line they want to ride (Manassas or Fredericksburg), the origination station, the destination station, and the ticket type (Single Ride, Day Pass, 7-Day Pass, 10 Ride, or 31-Day Pass). Enter the debit, credit and/or SmartBenefits information and store this information for future purchases. The ticket is then delivered to the "My Tickets" section of the app for use.
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Q: How do I validate my tickets?
- A: Navigate to the "My Tickets" tab within the application and tap on the ticket you would like to use. To activate the ticket, press the "Activate" button.
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Q: When should I validate my tickets?
- A: Riders should validate their tickets before they board the train. Depending on the age and speed of the smartphone, this can take several seconds. Riders are advised to press the "Activate" button on their tickets as they enter the station platform.
- Once "Activate" is pressed, riders can show the mobile ticket displayed on the phone to the conductor when requested. In addition to specific ticket details, your camera will turn on and allow the conductor to easily see the ticket is valid as the camera reflects real-time events. Do not board the train without a validated ticket. You will receive a summons and a fine. See conductor PRIOR to boarding if you have an issue with the mobile ticketing application.
- Train conductors may verify the ticket by asking riders to launch the unique Quick Response (QR) code embedded in each mobile ticket. Riders display the QR code by pressing the unique security code button in the bottom right corner of the ticket.
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Q: How long are unvalidated mobile tickets good for before they expire?
- A: Unvalidated VRE Mobile tickets (i.e. tickets that have not been used) do not expire until one year from the day of purchase.
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Q: Are there any additional fees for mobile ticketing?
- A: No.
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Q: What should I do if I experience technical problems with the application?
- Riders who need additional assistance with the application should contact the VRE Mobile ticketing helpdesk.