What is the Leap card?
It is a new integrated ticketing system for public transport in Dublin that allows you to use the bus, Luas, Dart and rail services using one ticket.
Where can I buy it?
In shops and newsagents bearing the Leap card sign. There are more than 400 of them in Dublin. Or you can buy them online at leapcard.ie
How much does it cost?
A €5 refundable deposit is charged for an adult card and €3 for a child’s. A minimum travel credit of €5 must be placed on the card at the time of first purchase.
How does it work?
It works just like phone credit. You top up your card in multiples of €5 and the cost of the fare is deducted from the balance every time a journey is made. The card can be topped up in shops or online.
Will it work out cheaper than paying a cash fare?
Yes. The card offers a 9 per cent saving on Dublin Bus fares after an increase in general fares comes into effect in January, up to 17 per cent off certain Luas tickets, and between 16 and 19 per cent off single Iarnród Éireann fares.
How do I use it on Dublin Bus?
For journeys up to 13 stages tell the driver your destination and hold your card to the target on the driver’s ticket machine and the right fare will be deducted. For longer journeys (over 13 stages) use the Leap Card validator on the right hand side as you enter the bus and the fixed fare will be deducted.
On the Luas?
Touch on a validator on the platform before you get on the tram and touch off when you get off. A default fare will be deducted from your card when you start your journey and when you end it the appropriate amount will be refunded on to your card.
On the Dart and commuter rail services?
It works in the same way as on the Luas above. The card can be used between stations within the “Short Hop Zone.” This zone includes all stations in the Dublin area from Greystones to Balbriggan and commuter stations from Dublin city centre to Maynooth and from Dublin Heuston to Hazelhatch.
How do I know how much credit is left on my card?
Cards indicate how much credit is left after a journey is made.
Anything else I should know?
You should register your card online at leapcard.ie. In this way, if a card is reported lost or stolen no one else can use it and the user is refunded the credit on the card.