Chennai Metro Card (2026): NCMC Guide

Cards that work on Chennai Metro

Singara Chennai Card (SBI)

Prepaid, contactless NCMC card for Chennai Metro and MTC buses. You get an SMS with the fare and balance after each tap.

Any bank's NCMC card

Chennai Metro gates are part of the NCMC network.

Key facts

The legacy CMRL travel card was discontinued from 1 May 2026.
The Singara Chennai Card is built on EMV standards, like debit and credit cards.

Using a credit card on the metro

RBL Bank RuPay credit cards include the NCMC feature, so you can tap them at NCMC metro gates. The offline wallet holds up to ₹2,000.
Most other credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and regular RuPay) don't work at metro gates unless they have the NCMC feature. Look for "NCMC" or "RuPay On-the-Go" on the card or in your bank app.
NCMC debit and prepaid cards are available from many banks, including SBI, HDFC, ICICI and Axis.

How to use an NCMC card

Top up the card's offline wallet at a station counter, ticket machine or through your bank app (plus the card's own balance for shopping).
Tap at the entry gate, then tap again at the exit gate. The fare is deducted from the offline wallet.
Keep a small balance. The offline wallet holds up to ₹2,000.

FAQs

Can I use a credit card on Chennai Metro?

Yes, if it has the NCMC feature (for example RBL Bank RuPay credit cards). Chennai Metro accepts NCMC cards. Regular credit cards without NCMC can't be tapped at the gates.

Which card should I buy for Chennai Metro?

Singara Chennai Card (SBI): Prepaid, contactless NCMC card for Chennai Metro and MTC buses. You get an SMS with the fare and balance after each tap.

Sources

✓ Fact-checked 26 September 2026Transit card rules change as systems upgrade. Confirm at the station or on the operator's website. Spotted a change? Tell us.

Chennai Metro Card: NCMC, Credit Cards & How to Pay (2026)