How to pay for buses in Stockholm
Stockholm SL supports contactless pay-as-you-go: tap a contactless card or phone to buy a single-journey ticket; cash is not the bus solution.
Best option for tourists
Use SL contactless pay-as-you-go for occasional travel, or buy a period ticket in the SL app if you will ride often.
| Transport | Card | Apple Pay | Google Pay | Cash | Onboard | Advance ticket | Front door | Tap off |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stockholm busSL says tapping a contactless card purchases a single-journey ticket. Your card/device acts as the ticket for inspection. | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Unknown | No |
Can you pay by card on the bus?
Yes. SL pay-as-you-go lets you tap a contactless bank card or payment-enabled device to buy a single-journey ticket.
Do you need to buy a ticket before boarding?
No advance ticket is needed for pay-as-you-go single journeys. Buy in the SL app if you want a travelcard or product beyond single adult fares.
Cash, boarding doors and tap-off rules
Do not rely on cash onboard. Stockholm SL's practical visitor options are contactless pay-as-you-go, the SL app or SL fare media.
Common questions
Can I pay with card on the bus in Stockholm?
Yes. SL pay-as-you-go lets you tap a contactless bank card or payment-enabled device to buy a single-journey ticket.
Do I need cash for buses in Stockholm?
Do not rely on cash onboard. Stockholm SL's practical visitor options are contactless pay-as-you-go, the SL app or SL fare media.