A Comprehensive Guide to the EZ-Link Card in Singapore
Singaporeans know that the EZ-Link card is essentially the holy grail because we can use it to pay not just for public transport but also for dining and shopping. We can even use it when we shop online; that’s how versatile it is!
That’s why one of my main tips for foreigners planning to visit Singapore is to get this card. If you’re one of them, here’s a guide with everything you need to know about this convenient card.
What is the EZ-Link Card?
From: ezlinksg
The EZ-Link card is a payment card that’s primarily used for public transport in Singapore, especially the bus and the MRT. This card looks like a credit card, but it has stored value and isn’t linked to an account, making it a form of contactless payment.
This card was first launched in 2002, and since 2024, it’s been owned by SimplyGo Pte Ltd, the merged identity of TransitLink and EZ-Link. SimplyGo is also a subsidiary of the Land Transport Authority (LTA).
Other Variations
From: ezlinksg
The most commonly used EZ-Link card is the standard version, which is stored-value and operates on the card-based ticketing system.
The standard edition comes in a variety of colours, and sometimes, there are even limited designs featuring beloved media franchises. For example, one time, I saw a Sonic-themed EZ-Link card. It was so cute!
Aside from the standard edition, there’s another kind of EZ-Link card, named SimplyGo EZ-Link card.
The SimplyGo EZ-Link card is linked to an account. This means that any value and data the card has is linked to SimplyGo’s servers, and you can access all that via the SimplyGo app.
This variation of the EZ-Link card is convenient because it lets you top up the card remotely. No more long queues at top-up kiosks!
But there’s a downside to this card: you can’t see how much credit is left on your card. You’ll have to go to a ticketing machine to check or use the app itself.
Another popular variation is the Singapore Tourist Pass. As you can gather from the name, this special EZ-Link card is intended for tourists, and it gives the user unlimited rides on public transport for up to five days! It’s definitely a must-have for all tourists.
Benefits of Using an EZ-Link Card
From: ezlinksg
The main benefit of an EZ-Link card is convenience.
You can use it to pay for public transportation because the MRT, LRT, Sentosa Express, and public bus services operated by SBS Transit, SMRT Buses, Tower Transit Singapore, and Go-Ahead Singapore all accept it as a mode of payment.
What if you go by car instead? No worries because you can use the card to pay off the parking fee!
And it doesn’t just stop there because the card is widely accepted in many shops and restaurants. Even hawker centres and vending machines are now accepting it. So, if you’re short on cash or you forgot your card at home, you have another way of paying.
Personally, I love using my EZ-Link card because I don’t want to be carrying my debit or credit card at all times. I’m pretty clumsy, so my biggest fear is always accidentally dropping my debit or credit card somewhere. At least with my EZ-Link card, if I lose it, it’s not as much of a hassle to get it replaced, unlike my debit or credit card.
Where to Purchase an EZ-Link Card
From: ezlinksg
It’s so easy to buy an EZ-Link card because it’s readily available at ticketing offices or ticketing service centres at MRT stations and bus interchanges. You can even find the card at convenience stores and retail outlets!
If you’re looking for the Singapore Tourist Pass in particular, the best place to get it is at the Cheers convenience stores at Changi Airport. It’s also available at SimplyGo Ticket Offices and automated kiosks at MRT stations.
Cost of the EZ-Link Card
From: ezlinksg
You can buy an EZ-Link card (either the standard version or the SimplyGo edition) for S$10. The card technically only costs S$5, but it comes with a S$5 stored value, hence the.
If the EZ-Link card is a limited-edition design, then it’s likely pricier—not by much, though, from what I’ve noticed. Usually, the price is around S$15.
For the Singapore Tourist Pass, these are the prices:
- 1-Day Pass: S$17
- 2-Day Pass: S$24
- 3-Day Pass: S$29
- 4-Day Pass: S$37
- 5-Day Pass: S$45
How to Use the EZ-Link Card and Check Its Balance
From: ezlinksg
It’s pretty easy and straightforward to use the EZ-Link card. It’s contactless, so there’s no need to insert it into a slot. All you have to do is simply hold the card against the reader panel, and the fare will be automatically deducted from your card’s stored value.
If you want to know how much balance is left on your card, you just have to find a card reader, tap it on the panel, and the balance will be shown on screen. These card readers are available at MRT stations and some bus interchanges.
If there are no card readers, you can go to the general ticketing machines instead.
Checking through the SimplyGo app is also an option if you have the SimplyGo card. You just have to register your card, and you can see the remaining balance.
How to Top Up Your EZ-Link Card
From: ezlinksg
Topping up your EZ-Link card is also an easy process. There are top-up machines set up at MRT stations and bus interchanges. If you can’t find one, you can always go to the general ticketing machines because they also allow you to top up your card.
Other methods you can use are the following:
- AXS Stations. This is a self-service kiosk that offers e-services like bill payments, ticket booking, and top-upping cards.
- 7-Eleven. 7-Eleven stores are open 24/7, so they’re perfect if you’re in a hurry and you need to top up your card ASAP. Just keep in mind you’ll have to use cash only.
- SimplyGo app. If you have the SimplyGo card, you can top it up via the app. This is super convenient since you can do it remotely and even use your credit card to pay.
Personalizing Your EZ-Link Card
From ezlinksg
Did you know that you can personalise your EZ-Link cards? Aside from getting the colourful cards or the limited-edition ones, you can also purchase charms!
These charms are just for decorative purposes, but they look so cute and add a bit of fun to the commute experience (at least for me). You can find them in convenience stores or Shopee.
I personally love the mahjong-themed one offered officially by SimplyGo. I mean, it lights up! How can I resist that?
Other Frequently Asked Questions about EZ-Link Cards
From: ezlinksg