Fare evasion on GO and UP

Fare evasion fines increasing on GO Transit and UP Express

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  • Fare evasion fines increasing on GO Transit and UP Express

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August 21 – Effective Sept. 8, 2026, fines for fare evasion on GO Transit and UP Express will increase – and repeat offenders will face progressively higher fines with each offence.

Escalating fines

Fines for fare evasion will increase with each offence. If you travel without valid proof of payment, you will face the following fines:  

  • First offence: $200
  • Second offence: $300
  • Third offence: $400
  • Fourth offence: $500
  • Fifth offence: A Provincial Offence Notice with a set fine established by the Chief Justice of the Ontario Court of Justice
  • Sixth and subsequent offences: A court summons with fines of up to $1,000 upon conviction
Fare evasion on GO and UP

Avoid fines with these reminders

Always have valid proof of payment before travelling on GO Transit and UP Express. Here are some key tips to help you avoid fare payment issues and potential fines:

  • Tap at the start and end of every trip. Tap your PRESTO card, credit card or Interac® Debit card before you board and tap off at the end of your trip. Remember to tap the same card every time you transfer, between GO Transit and UP Express, GO trains and buses, and GO and connecting transit agencies. Tapping correctly ensures that you receive discounted transfers through Ontario’s One Fare. You don’t need to tap when transferring between GO trains connecting at Union Station.
  • Override your default trip when needed. If you have a default trip set on your PRESTO card but are travelling to a different station, press the Mode button on the PRESTO device and then tap your card on the device to select your destination. Then tap off at the end of the trip.
  • Have the right fare type and carry your ID. If you’re a student, senior or veteran, make sure you have the correct fare type set on your PRESTO card. You may be required to present valid identification, such as a student card or veteran card, during fare inspection.
  • Plan ahead. Arrive at your station with enough time to load funds onto your PRESTO card and tap on before you board. If you are travelling with a GO or UP E-ticket or group pass, activate it before you board. E-tickets become valid five minutes after activation.

Accredited journalists can contact our media team at mediarelations@metrolinx.com. 

For customers, please visit Metrolinx – Contact Us to contact the customer service team.

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