General

What is STAR?
STAR is JTA's new state-of-the-art electronic fare collection system featuring hard plastic smart cards and smart paper tickets instead of magnetic stripe tickets. The system features interactive Ticket Vending Machines, “Simply Tap And Ride” card readers on buses, trolleys, Community Shuttles and paratransit vehicles and a unique on-line card registration system.

What is the yellow STAR Card?
The STAR card looks like a credit card or a debit card, but it has a computer chip inside that can be loaded and reloaded for up to three years with value passes or cash value. The card offers features such as Balance Protection and convenient reloading at eight popular locations. Soon these reloading will be available through our Pass Partners or online.

What is the silver STAR ticket?
The STAR tickets are primarily designed for those who use JTA less frequently and for out-of-town visitors. These tickets can be reloaded with the same product but are made of paper and are much less durable than the extended-use card. The ticket does not offer all the features of the STAR card.

Why did JTA change to a smart card system?
STAR replaces an aging fare collection system. The project is funded through a grant, not your fare monies.

Using the STAR Card

Where can I get a STAR Card? How much does it cost?
STAR tickets are available at JTA Pass Partner locations (including local Walgreens and some Winn-Dixie stores), JTA Administrative Offices at 100 N. Myrtle, Rosa Parks Transit Station or through Ticket Vending Machines. The card purchase fee is $2. Additional fare or value passes must be loaded on the card before it can be used on board JTA vehicles.

Can someone show me how to use the new STAR system?
Through mid-February JTA ambassadors are stationed at Ticket Vending Machines during peak periods to help load and reload your cards. Additionally, you can call the STAR hotline at (904) 632-3800 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

How can I check the balance on my STAR card?
You can check your balance from any Ticket Vending Machine by pressing the “Read” button and tapping your card on the machine. Soon you will be able to check your balance online.

Reloading/Managing STAR Cards

Which credit cards can I use to load or reload my STAR media?
The Ticket Vending Machines accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover. In addition, you can use your bank debit card. Soon, you will be able to use those same credit cards to set up an automatic reload through the web site.

Can I register my silver STAR ticket?
No. The registration feature is only for the STAR cards.

How long does it take for my money to show up on my card if I reload on-line?
The transaction could take up to 48 hours to show up on your STAR card. If you reload at the Ticket Vending Machines, the money shows up instantly.

How many products can I load on my STAR card?
You can load up to three of the same product on your STAR card.

Do I need exact change if reloading my card with cash?
No. The machine will give you up to $10 in change back in the form of Susan B. Anthony dollar coins.

Will JTA dell my registration information?
No. Your information is protected and is not a part of the Florida public records requirements.

Lost/Stolen Cards

What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?
If you have registered your STAR card, call (904) 632-3800 as soon as you notice your card missing. We will immediately cancel your old card and transfer the remaining balance value to a new card. You will only need to pay a $2 new card purchase fee.

What if I didn't register my card, and it was lost or stolen?
If you have not registered your STAR card, we have no way of deactivating your old card or replacing your money.

Caring for the STAR Card

Will my STAR card demagnetize if I keep it next to my credit card?
No. STAR cards do not contain magnetic materials, so they can't be demagnetized.

Can I poke a hole in my card and wear it around my neck?
No. STAR cards have microchips inside of them. The microchips have a series of antennas that enable them to communicate with the fareboxes and Ticket Vending Machines. If one of the antennas is clipped, the card will not work. If you would like to wear the card around your neck, please place it inside a sleeve and poke the hole in the sleeve.

Senior Passengers

Am I required to get a STAR card?
The STAR card is your new senior ID. You have until May 31, 2012 to get your new card.

Can I get my STAR card from the Ticket Vending Machine.
You can reload your card at the Ticket Vending Machines, but cannot buy a new card there. We need to take your photo for the back of your card, so you'll need to stop by one of our photo locations.
Call (904) 632-8300 to make an appointment.

Where do I go to get my STAR card?
We have suspended distribution of senior STAR cards until February 13. Watch for times and locations. Please bring with you a picture ID and an ID showing your valid date of birth. Passengers 60 years of age and older ride free.

Reduced Fare Passengers

Am I required to get a STAR card?
The STAR card is your new ID. You have until May 31, 2012 to get your new card.

Can I get my STAR card from the Ticket Vending Machine?
You can reload your card at the Ticket Vending Machines but cannot buy a new one there. We need to take your photo for the back of your card, so you’ll need to stop by one of our photo locations.

Where do I go to get my STAR card?
Locations are set up at Rosa Parks Transit Station and at Kings Ave. Skyway Station Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also go to the Paratransit office at 5711Richard Street, Suite 3. Call (904) 632-8500 to set up an appointment at any of the locations. Please bring with you a picture ID and one of the following:

• A Recipient of Social Security Disability or Social Security Income - Current awards letter

• A Disabled Veteran service connected - DD 214 stating your disability or Red, White and Blue VA card

• Disabled - A JTA reduced fare application completed by a doctor

• A Medicare recipient - Medicare card

• A JTA reduced fare rider – A current JTA reduced fare card