Cape Breton Regional Municipality is making public transit easier with the launch of a new modern fare payment system for Transit Cape Breton.
Beginning on Monday, June 15, riders will be able to pay their fare using the new “Umo” mobility app, a reusable reloadable transit card, debit or credit card tap payment or exact cash fare.
The new system simplifies transit use across the municipality with a flat fare of $2.50 one way anywhere Transit Cape Breton operates in CBRM.
“This is a major modernization of public transit in Cape Breton Regional Municipality,” said Mayor Cecil Clarke. “Whether you ride every day or are trying transit for the first time, the new system is designed to make using transit simple, flexible and convenient.”
Riders with a smartphone are encouraged to download the Umo app, which becomes their digital transit pass and payment system. The app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
For riders without a mobile phone, reusable reloadable transit cards are available for $10 at the City Hall Citizen Service Centre located at 320 Esplanade. Funds can be added online or in person at City Hall.
The transition also eliminates fare zones and paper tickets. Existing transit tickets will continue to be accepted until December 31, 2026.
Importantly, riders do not need a mobile data plan to use the Umo app while on the bus.
Student, Youth, and Senior Passes
Discounted unlimited ride passes are available for youth ages 11–17, students, and seniors aged 60+. Eligible riders can purchase a discounted 30-day unlimited ride pass for $66 through the app, online, at City Hall, or at upcoming pop-up locations.
To activate discounted fares:
- Students from institutions including Cape Breton University, Nova Scotia Community College, and CBLC must verify student ID in person at City Hall or a pop-up location to receive their student fare code.
- Youth ages 11-17 and Seniors aged 60+ must present identification once at City Hall or a pop-up location to activate their discounted rate.
Transit passes and payment methods are intended for individual rider use only and cannot be shared between multiple passengers or devices.
Children 10 years of age an under ride for free.
The regular rate for an unlimited ride transit pass is $82.50.
New and occasional riders
Occasional riders and first-time transit users can now simply tap a debit or credit card to ride.
All rides are $2.50 one way anywhere in CBRM, and riders can transfer between buses free of charge for 90 minutes following their initial fare payment.
Pop-Up locations for discounted bus passes
Customers are required to show ID to obtain a discounted pass. Discounted passes are available at the following locations:
- Pop-up location: Mayflower Mall (past the food court, by former entrance to The Bay)
June 8-12, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Pop-up location: Cape Breton University (Cafeteria)
June 8-12, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Regular location: City Hall, 320 Esplanade Citizen Service Centre.
June 8-12, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Additional dates and times for pop-up events may be announced soon.
For more information and to download the Umo app, visit Google Play or App Store.