ICA Traffic GmbH is implementing a pioneering project for the Mainfranken Local Transport Association (NVM): for the first time in Germany, a network-wide ID-based ticketing system is being introduced that fully and seamlessly covers not only ticket sales but also interoperability, ticket validation and the use of tickets purchased across different transport networks. Tap & Ride®

The project was preceded by an EU-wide tender process, from which ICA Traffic emerged as the winner due to its technological capabilities and convincing overall solution. The NVM was supported by the consultancy firm 402PAYMENT during the tender process and will continue to advise the NVM with its technical expertise until the product launch. The introduction of the new tap-in/tap-out system in the NVM network area is scheduled for the end of 2026.

Around 1,400 validators are being installed across large parts of the NVM network. They form the technical basis for a simple, digital and user-friendly access system for public transport. When boarding or alighting, passengers simply need to hold their bank card, credit card or smartphone up to the reader. The service remains accessible even without a bank card: prepaid cards are available for children, as well as for passengers without a bank account or those wishing to use an alternative payment method. Fares are calculated automatically in the background based on the best-price principle, without the need for an app, knowledge of fares, prior ticket purchase or registration.

Behind the scenes, ICA’s central backend system ensures that transport operators can monitor payments, tap-ins and tap-outs in real time. Passengers can keep track of their travel entitlements at any time via the customer portal and can, for example, download receipts for travel expense claims directly.

“We are proud of the development we have driven forward over the past few months, which is now being rolled out across the transport network in Germany,” said ICA Managing Director Heinz Sander. The project in Mainfranken marks an important milestone for the use of ID-based ticketing in German public transport and underlines ICA Traffic’s position as one of the leading providers of modern ticketing and distribution solutions.