A MetroCard is a faster, easier way to pay for public transportation in New York City. The MetroCards are available for purchase in New York at MetroCard vending machines, Subway Station booths and neighborhood Merchants.
You can get a Senior MetroCard at participating MetroCard vending machines located in subway stations, or directly from MTA staff at ticket booths. Additionally, seniors can apply for a Senior MetroCard by visiting an MTA Customer Service Center or by mailing in an application. Make sure to bring valid identification that proves your age, such as a driver's license or a Medicare card.
Yes, you can easily and quickly check your MetroCard balance at any MetroCard vending machine or online through the MTA website or mobile app.
Prices vary depending on whether you purchase a MetroCard with multiple trips on it if you're buying a single ride. Standard price: $2.25 ($2.50, if single ride). Discounts are given when you put $10 or more on a MetroCard. For a complete list, visit the MTA's web site.
New York City Subway, or just the subway, or MTA.
the MTA.
There's vending machines on the subway platforms.
You can purchase a MetroCard for public transportation in the city at subway stations, bus terminals, and select convenience stores.
No, sharing a MetroCard with someone else for a single journey is not allowed. Each person must have their own MetroCard to ride the subway or bus in New York City.
MTA Subway Maps have limited information about major landmarks. Many landmarks are not shown, however, and you would be aided by referencing other maps along with the subway map.
The subway is the best way to get around Manhattan. The bus is slow and the routes are confusing (plus, you must have exact change or a Metrocard with you, because there are no Metrocard machines at bus stations, like there are at subway stations), and cabs are very expensive. For subway directions, see the Related Question below.
No
Interboro Rapid Transit was one of the subway lines used in the old days. Now it is simply called MTA. All the other lines such as BMT, IND were merged into the MTA.