Reduced-Fare AutoGate MetroCard

AutoGate is an automatic entry/exit gate that allows customers who have ambulatory disabilities, are accompanied by a service animal, use wheelchairs, or who travel with strollers, bicycles, luggage, or other large items, to independently enter and exit the subway system. There is at least one AutoGate unit at every accessible subway station in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. The AutoGate is available for any Reduced-Fare customer who needs it.

Using the AutoGate

The AutoGate can be operated using any MetroCard (other than a Single-Ride paper ticket), or with OMNY. To enter the subway through an AutoGate, hold your MetroCard so that the black stripe faces you and the cut-off corner is at the top of the card. Dip it into the slot in the special farebox. Your MetroCard will pop back up after the screen displays the word "GO" and the AutoGate will open automatically. If the AutoGate is not working, return to or use a HelpPoint intercom to contact the 24-Hour Station Booth for assistance. 

There is a specially encoded Reduced-Fare AutoGate MetroCard to open AutoGates or conventional turnstiles. Customers with qualifying disabilities who need AutoGate access pay a reduced fare and receive the same free two-hour transfer as all MetroCard customers.

Reduced-Fare customers who need the AutoGate can use the same MetroCard at the gate and in all subway turnstiles. Use Reduced-Fare AutoGate MetroCard where and when you use Reduced-Fare MetroCard. 

You can apply for a Reduced-Fare MetroCard online, by mail, or in person.

Temporary Reduced-Fare AutoGate MetroCard

MTA New York City Transit also offers a Temporary Reduced-Fare AutoGate MetroCard to customers who, due to mobility disabilities, are unable to use turnstiles without assistance, or who, because they need accompaniment by a service animal, are unable to use certain turnstiles. The Temporary Reduced-Fare AutoGate MetroCard is valid for a period ranging from 90 days to a year, contingent upon completing the Reduced-Fare application and filing the appropriate medical information from a doctor. Otherwise, the temporary card works the same as a Reduced-Fare AutoGate MetroCard.