SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Tap-to-ride on San Diego's public transit system is going express. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and North County Transit District (NCTD) announced Wednesday they are rolling out a new option for riders who want to streamline their use of contactless p ayment, where they can just tap their device and go. The quick payment alternative is going to be made available through Apple Pay's "Express Mode" feature, allowing riders to hover their iPhone or Apple Watch over the contactless payment validator to charge their card without needing to wake or unlock the device. This feature is not yet available for other forms of contactless payment riders may be using, such as GooglePay. MTS and NTCD officials say the new capability will help make using the Pronto payment stations more efficient. This could be particularly handy during peak travel times, like after a home game at Petco Park, where riders often encounter headache-inducing lines just to pay their fare. MTS considering fare increase, tax measure as ‘budget crisis’ looms “Today marks an exciting step forward in making public transit in San Diego more seamless and convenient,” said Stephen Whitburn, MTS Board Chair and San Diego City Councilmember. “Whether you're heading to a Padres game, a concert, or simply commuting to your next destination, paying with Apple Pay empowers riders to hop onboard faster.” To use Express Mode, users will need to opt in and select which card they would like to be charged when it is placed near the Pronto reader. To do this, riders can go to "Wallet & Apple Pay" in their device settings, scroll to "Transit Cards," and then pick their desired default. Once it is set up, a one-way adult fare will be charged to the default card every time they place their device against the card reader without needing to open the device or authorize the payment using Face ID or a passcode. This payment is valid for two-hours, so transfers to other lines or routes are covered. An important caveat for frequent riders: Using any form of contactless payment does not count towards MTS and NTCD's fare capping program, which allows people to pay up to the cost of a day or month pass each time they ride. This can only be accessed through the Pronto app. MTS and NCTD riders with Apple devices can start going "express" right away, officials say, with the feature now accepted at all Pronto card readers. ...read more read less