Regardless of the type of MetroCard, it costs $1 just to buy the card. Physically, the card looks identical regardless of which mode it is currently in, so you can't tell the difference unless you swipe it at a card reader.

This physical expiration date is merely there to force old cards out of rotation.Ī MetroCard can operate in two modes: Regular and Unlimited Ride. This physical expiration date has nothing to do with the value and time on the card, so don't confuse this date with the expiration of an Unlimited Ride window (which I will explain that later). This physical expiration date is fixed and indicates the time when the card becomes unusable and must be exchanged for another one at a subway booth. The back of the card has what I call a physical expiration date which is usually set pretty far in the future. Occasionally, the MetroCard also carries advertisements on either side, so it might not be yellow as above, but it always has a black magnetic stripe at the bottom, three rounded corners, and one 'cut off' corner.

Nyc subway fare