Validating Your Ticket

A validated ticket is required before boarding MAX

Before you can use a ticket to ride MAX, it needs to be "validated."

There are validators located next to the ticket machines at each MAX station. Insert your ticket in the slot and the validator will stamp the date, zone and expiration time on it, making it a valid fare.

When you purchase a single ticket from a ticket vending machine, it comes pre-validated, so you are free to board the train. Otherwise, you'll need to insert your ticket into the validator before boarding.

Tickets are good for 2 hours

A validated ticket gives you two hours to board any bus, MAX train or streetcar. It's your proof of payment, so keep the ticket until you complete your MAX trip or transfer to a bus.

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 the Streetcar, stamp the ticket in the validator on board.