Getting Started
Everything you need to ride and manage your Wave account is right at your fingertips. Easily manage your virtual card, add funds (even with cash), and oversee multiple cards—all in one simple app.
Download the Wave mobile app
First, you’ll need to download the app from the Apple or Google Play store.
Create your account
You can create an account online or within the app, which involves entering basic information and your preferred payment method. If you are a current OC Bus mobile user, use the same email address when creating your new Wave account.
Add a virtual Wave card
In the mobile app, tap “Add Card” at the top of the screen to create a virtual card. Once added, it will appear in your app labeled “Wave Virtual.” Load money onto your card and you’re ready to ride.
Using the virtual card
Before boarding, have your QR code ready. To access it, tap the QR icon at the bottom of the screen. When boarding, hold your phone with the QR code facing up under the onboard validator. Once you hear a chime and see a check mark, you’re good to go.
Managing your card
Use the mobile app to manage your card and add funds anytime. Without a balance, your virtual card won’t work. Add money with a debit/credit card, Apple or Google Pay, or with cash at participating retailers.
Ready to get started with Wave?
Download the Wave mobile app from the App Store or Google Play.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Wave system will feature a new mobile app. You’ll need to download the new Wave app and create a new account—ideally using the same email address as before. Once the new app launches, the current OC Bus mobile app will be phased out.
Yes, you will use the same username and password to log in on both the mobile app and the website, as the system is account-based and not tied to a specific device.
Yes, the new mobile app will include an option to load funds to your virtual card using cash at participating retail locations.
You'll be able to load funds into your mobile account using cash or debit/credit cards at participating retail locations.
More Ways to Pay
Wave Card
The Wave card is a smart card that allows you to pay for travel on OCTA public transit services in Orange County. It’s a reloadable payment card and offers balance protection plus the benefit of daily and monthly fare capping. It can be purchased online or at participating retailers.
Contactless Cards
You probably already have a contactless card in your wallet. They allow you to securely tap your card to pay and will have a symbol on the front or back like a Wi-Fi symbol turned on its side. Contactless cards can also be added to a mobile wallet and used when boarding.