How to ride the MRT in Singapore

The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is a major transportation means in Singapore. It spans the whole of Singapore from north to south and east to west. It's still expanding with the build of a new line, the circle line. Best reasons to take the MRT: convenient, quite cheap, and relatively fast. Making use of the MRT is very easy to do, here's a step by step guide on how to ride on the MRT.


1: Locate a nearby MRT station (photo 1)
Look for the signs showing you to the nearest MRT station. Every station should have a sign like this at its entrance.

2: Look for the MRT system map (photo 2)
This is easy to find since it's everywhere in the station, for example near the entrance, in the ticketing machine area, or at the passenger service office. Look up the station you are in at the moment, then look up the station you want to go to, and see how many stops and possible transfers you need to get there.

3: Get an EZ-link card or a standard ticket (photo 3a,b)
If you think you are going to ride the MRT and/or buses frequently, consider then to purchase a EZ-link card at the ticket office. The EZ-link card is a contactless chipcard, which can also be used for making payments for goods and services in Singapore, biggest use is for transportation services. Check out www.ezlink.com.sg for more information on the EZ-Link card.

The General Ticketing Machines (GTM's) at each station allow you to top up additional credit to the EZ-Link cards or to purchase a standard ticket for single trips. On the standard ticket is a S$1.00 refundable ticket deposit charged for each Standard Ticket. This refund can be collected from any General Ticketing Machine when the card is returned to the machine within 30 days of purchase.

4: Check in and wait on the platform (photo 4a,b,c)
At the gates you check in by tapping your card on the reader at the fare gates. The platform is usually located one, or more, level(s) below or above. Follow the directions and use the escalator or elevator to get into the correct platform. LCD screens are located everywhere at the station to provide arrival and destination information. Next, you wait for the train to arrive.

5: When the train arrives (photo 5a,b)
Stand clear and board the train, enjoy your ride. And be aware of what you can not do on the MRT. Note: there is enhanced control on drinking and/or eating in the stations and trains so be aware!

Last,

If you use the EZ-Link Card on the bus, don't forget to check out before you step off the bus. Otherwise you pay more then really needed.