Pronto card

Question

Where can I buy a Pronto card please? Looking for the actual card to buy so I can then load money on to it - think it is $2? Not able to use my phone so happy with a card. The visitors center told me there's only one place to buy these - the transit center at 12th and Imperial (and they're not open today). Surely there must be somewhere else??? Staying near Little Italy. Thanks

Answer

The Pronto card in San Diego is the physical transit card used to ride buses and trolleys. While it’s true that the primary sales point is the 12th & Imperial Transit Center, there are a few other ways you can obtain a card, especially if you are near Little Italy.

Where to Buy a Pronto Card:

Transit Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs): Many trolley stations, including Santa Fe Depot, Convention Center, and Old Town stations, have ticket vending machines that sell physical Pronto cards. The cost of the card is usually around $2, and you can load cash or credit onto it.
San Diego MTS Online Ordering: You can order a physical Pronto card online via the MTS website and have it mailed to you, though this may take a few days — not useful for immediate use.
Retail Partners: Some grocery stores, convenience stores, and transit-authorized retailers carry Pronto cards. Examples include select Ralphs, Vons, and 7-Eleven locations. Availability varies, so it’s best to call ahead.
MTS Customer Service Centers: The main customer service center at the Downtown Transit Center (12th & Imperial) is the primary in-person location, but there are occasionally satellite centers or pop-up sales at major transit hubs.

Tips for Visitors:

If you are near Little Italy, the nearest trolley station is usually the Little Italy station (north end of downtown). Check if their TVM has Pronto cards — many do.
Have small bills or a credit card ready, as some TVMs may not take coins.
Once you have the card, it can be reloaded at any TVM or online.
If you need immediate travel and cannot get a card, some bus drivers may accept exact cash fare, but this is less convenient for multiple rides.

In short, besides the 12th & Imperial Transit Center, your best bet is to check nearby trolley station vending machines, especially at Santa Fe Depot or Convention Center, or call local retail partners in Little Italy to see if they carry the $2 physical cards.

Pronto card

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