do you have to activate the chicago card?

Question

Do you have to activate the chicago transit card? I didn't see it say that I had to but i just want to make sure? Thanks

Answer 1

There are two types of Chicago Cards: one that uses a "stored value" system where you put additional money on it from one of the fare machines and the Chicago Card Plus that uses an online account system where you add money to it on line via a credit or debit card. Both of them are ready to use as soon as you get it. There are five ways to get a Chicago Card

1. Online: www.chicago-card.com.
2. Phone: 1-888-YOUR-CTA (1-888-968-7282).
3. Mail: Use the order form inside the Chicago Card and Chicago Card Plus sales brochure found at CTA rail stations and on CTA buses.
4. In Person: CTA Sales Center, 567 W. Lake Street, Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
5. Chicago Card is also available at more than 200 locations, including select Jewel, Dominick's and Currency Exchanges.

Answer 2

I assume you are talking about the plastic "Chicago Card"

No, if you don't plan to use it then you don't have to activate it.

Just note that if you have any value on it, you could lose that value at some point.