A new report from HID, a global provider of identity and authentication solutions, outlines the top five priorities for mass transit agencies in 2025, based on a global survey of 102 public transport providers. The findings reflect a growing focus on passenger convenience, technological integration, and data-informed operations, as agencies work to modernize fare collection systems.
The State of Mass Transit Ticketing Hardware Report 2025 identifies five key areas of focus. First among them is reducing dependence on cash, as agencies aim to streamline operations through contactless ticketing. According to the report, 43% of respondents intend to implement such systems, with 88% targeting deployment within 12 to 24 months.
Improving passenger experience also emerged as a high priority, with nearly two-thirds of respondents citing user-friendly ticketing interfaces as a top requirement. This reflects a broader trend toward faster, more intuitive transit systems that can meet passenger expectations for convenience.
The report also highlights the growing importance of expanding contactless and mobile payment options. While mobile ticketing is more widespread in Europe—where 86% of agencies use app-based systems—traditional fareboxes, closed-loop cards, and cash still dominate in the United States, where 87% of agencies rely on these methods.
Agencies are also placing greater emphasis on using ticketing systems to collect detailed ridership data. Over half of the survey participants indicated a preference for solutions that support multiple ticket types, integrate seamlessly, and offer actionable data to support strategic decision-making.
Finally, the report underscores a push toward reducing reliance on proprietary systems. Around 40% of respondents favor open-architecture ticketing hardware that can adapt to evolving technological needs. This need is especially pronounced in Latin America and the Asia Pacific region, where proprietary systems remain a common challenge.
The report reflects input from a wide range of industry decision-makers, emphasizing the global momentum toward more adaptive, technology-driven public transport solutions.
