Wave launches October 15! This new fare payment system is designed to save you money with flexible payment options, balance protection, and automatic fare capping so you’ll never overpay. As Wave rolls out, some programs will be phased out.
What's Changing
The items below will be phased out as we introduce new benefits that will make riding even easier.
Paper Passes
Paper passes will stop being sold on board buses on October 15.
important dates
- October 15 Paper passes will stop being sold on board buses
- Early Spring 2026 Riders will have up to six months to use existing passes before they will no longer be accepted
new ways to pay with wave
OC Bus Mobile App
The OC Bus Mobile App will be replaced by the Wave by OCTA mobile app.
important dates
- October 31 Last day to purchase passes in the OC Bus Mobile App
- February 28, 2026 Last day to use passes stored in the OC Bus Mobile App
new ways to pay with wave
OC Bus Rewards
With Wave, you’ll never pay more than the daily or monthly limit — after that, your rides are free. Because savings are built in, the rewards program will be discontinued. Members will be able to convert points into funds stored in their Wave accounts.
IMPORTANT DATES
- October 31 Last day to purchase passes in the OC Bus mobile app
- November 30 Last day to upload passes for points
- January 2026 Deadline to convert points to cash. More details to come
NEVER OVERPAY WITH WAVE