How Does Account-Based Ticketing Improve Mobility?

03 March 2025,

Public transport is evolving, and so are the systems that power it. One system helping to revolutionize public transport is Account-Based Ticketing (ABT). But what exactly is ABT, and why is it reshaping the way we move?

What is account-based ticketing?

Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) is a fare collection system that simplifies travel by storing all travel and payment data in a secure, cloud-hosted back office. Instead of relying on physical tickets or pre-loaded fare cards, ABT allows passengers to use their preferred token – whether a smart card, contactless card, smartphone, smartwatch, or QR code – to validate their travel.

The system calculates fares after the journey, ensuring passengers always pay the best price while enabling transit agencies to manage flexible and equitable fare rules. ABT is more than just a ticketing solution; it’s a framework for building trust and convenience into public transport systems.

ABT: a ticket-free zone

One of ABT’s standout features is its multi-token acceptance. With an ABT system, passengers can choose from various ways to validate their travel:

• Transit smart cards: For the simple tap-and-go experience.
• Contactless EMV (cEMV): Easy access to transport with the tap of a bank card.
• Mobile apps: Scan a QR code or generate a dynamic barcode.
• Smartwatches and wearable tech: For seamless, hands-free travel.
• Traditional methods: Cash or paper tickets for those not ready to go digital.

This flexibility makes public transport more accessible and inclusive, allowing everyone to choose the method that best suits their needs.

ABT: a building block for MaaS

Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) lays the foundation for Mobility as a Service (MaaS) by supporting the integration of multi-operator, multimodal networks. It enables:

• Scalability: an ABT platform can handle large numbers of users and transactions
• Data-sharing: operators can share data and work together to improve service quality 
• Unified fare system: fares are calculated and revenue apportioned to all operators
• Connection: easier to plan, book and pay for journeys using several mobility modes
• Multi-operator fare rules: riders enjoy fare caps as they use a variety of services
• Compatible with contactless and mobile: simple ‘tap or app’ access to transport
• Single customer account: one stop for viewing travel history and expenses

6 benefits of account-based ticketing for transport operators

Transport operators and agencies gain significant advantages with ABT, including:

1. Operational efficiency: data on users’ travel and payments behaviour enables operators to optimise routes, schedules, and capacity.
2. Cost savings: Minimising the cost of handling cash, printing tickets and maintaining ticketing infrastructure lowers operating expenses.
3. Reduced fare evasion and fraud: linking travel rights to a passenger’s account, allowing real-time fare calculation and payment, makes it harder to counterfeit tickets. 
4. Enhanced security: With a secure, cloud-based back office, ABT systems provide robust protection against fraud and data breaches.
5. New revenue streams: ABT can enable new revenue streams through innovative subscription plans, loyalty programs, and personalised travel products.
6. Boost ridership and revenue: ABT creates a fast, frictionless boarding experience – leading to greater passenger satisfaction and repeat custom.

6 benefits of account-based ticketing for passengers

ABT isn’t just about operational gains – it’s about making travel easier for everyone. Passengers benefit from:

1. Convenient: use the card or smartphone you carry everywhere as your ‘ticket’
2. Simple: No need to understand ticketing systems or calculate complex fare rules
3. Connected: The same tap-or-scan experience across multiple transport modes
4. Best fares: Fare capping ensures you always pay the best value available fare
5. Single account: Track travel history and payments and get real-time notifications 
6. Reduced barriers: A variety of payment options ensure inclusivity for all users

Making ABT simpler with modular systems

Deploying an ABT system might seem daunting, but modern solutions like Vix Technology’s ‘Pulse’ Account-based Ticketing platform  are designed to simplify the process. By using modular, cloud-based architecture, Pulse allows operators to:

• Integrate seamlessly with existing systems
• Scale effortlessly as networks grow
• Reduce deployment complexity with published APIs and flexible components

With modular systems, operators can focus on enhancing passenger experiences while minimising disruption during rollout.

Account-Based Ticketing is transforming public transport by enabling seamless, passenger-focused experiences through a ticketless system.  For passengers, it enables all people to access networks with ease and confidence. For operators, it’s a smarter way to unify systems, manage resources efficiently and deliver reliable, connected, affordable end-to-end journeys.