Validating Your Ticket
Time-stamp your ticket before boarding MAX or WES
Before you can use a ticket to ride MAX Light Rail or WES Commuter Rail, it needs to be "validated." There are validators near the ticket machines at MAX and WES stations.
When you purchase a single ticket from a ticket machine, it comes pre-validated, so you are free to board the train. Otherwise, insert your ticket into the validator next to the machine. It will stamp the date, zone and expiration time on it, making it a valid fare.
Tickets are good for 2 hours
A validated ticket gives you 2 hours to board any train or bus. It's your proof of payment, so keep the ticket until you complete your trip.
Streetcars have validators on board
There are ticket machines and validators on board the Portland Streetcar. If you already have a ticket and you begin your trip on a streetcar, stamp the ticket in the validator on board.