The cities of Rotterdam and Amsterdam have a new payment system for their underground transport systems. The ‘strippen card’, valid in the rest of Holland for any type of public transport (= OV), can no longer be used in the underground of the country’s two main cities. Travelers can only use the new OV chip card for underground travel.
Five answers to questions on this digital travel ticket.

Why was the OV chip card introduced?

Gradually, the Dutch public transport companies want to introduce just the one payment system for all types of public transport. The OV chip card, in addition, calculates the fare due based on the distance traveled, which the old ‘strippen card’ does not do. Moreover, the new system makes it easier for the transport companies to monitor passenger flows.

When and where can the OV chip card be used?

The OV chip card can already be used on buses, trams and the underground in Rotterdam and Amsterdam. In due course, the OV chip card will be the sole method of payment for all public transport in Holland.

How does it work?

The card looks like a credit card. People who use public transport regularly may use a personal OV chip card. In addition, there are pay-as-you-go and single-use cards. You check in at the gate at the beginning of your trip, and you check out at the gate at the end of your trip. The fare that is due is automatically deducted. The credit amount on the card may be topped up at special machines.

How is the card doing so far?

The OV chip card was heavily criticized prior to the introduction in Rotterdam, and its launch was postponed time and time again. Today, many travelers use the new card. RET, the Rotterdam public transport company, has issued millions of cards. Fare dodging has greatly decreased since the introduction of the card. No date has been set yet for the sole use of the new payment system on buses and trams in and around Rotterdam.

Where can I get more information?

The transport companies have set up the joint www.ovchipkaart.nl website, which answers numerous questions.