OV-pas

After almost 15 years, the OV-chipkaart is being retired. It's time for a new card with new technology: the OV-pas. Discover how it works and how to switch over.

What is the OV-pas?

The OV-pas is the successor to the OV-chipkaart. While it may just look like a new plastic card, there are a lot of technical changes.

For example, your data is no longer stored on your card, but in a very secure online database instead. This means you can arrange more online and no longer need to go to the NS ticket machine (although you can still do so if you wish).

Requesting an OV-pas

If you have a season ticket with us, then you will receive a message about your new OV-pas sometime during 2026. You should therefore not order a separate card yourself, because it will not have your NS season ticket on it.

What if you don't have an NS season ticket?

In that case, you can order a separate OV-pas from OVpay.nl, or you can travel with your debit card. In both cases, you will always travel in second class, without a discount.

What if you already have an OV-pas?

For example, you might have a pink OV-pas from OVpay, or from another carrier.

You can use this to check in and out with us In this case, you will always travel without a discount, and based on the card balance.

How to travel with your OV-pas

Actually, not much will be changing for you as a traveller. The OV-pas will continue to be a single card that you can use for train, bus, tram and metro journeys.

Tracking costs

You won't see your balance and fare for your journey on the gates or posts when you check out. You can track your travel history and costs in the OVpay app or in Mijn NS.

Checking and topping up your balance

You can check or top up your balance in the OVpay app. Regrettably, our ticket machines do not offer this service yet, but conductors or service personnel can tell you what your balance is.

You should make sure that you have a balance of at least €20 before checking in.

Frequently Asked Questions about the OV-pas

Can I use the Combined Travel Discount?

No, we do not yet offer this option. You cannot use the Combined Travel Discount with an OV-pas, nor can you give it to someone else.
I can't check in with my OV-pas.
There are two possible reasons.
1. Your OV-pas has been blocked for public transportation, for example because you do not have the required minimum balance. To fix this, see the answer to the question 'My OV-pas has been blocked for public transportation'.
2. Your OV-pas has been reported lost or stolen.
To find out more, check the display on the gate or card reader.
Can I use my OV-pas to pay for door-to-door services?

No, you cannot yet pay for these services with your OV-pas.

You can already use your OV-pas to park your bicycle in the bicycle parking facility, but you must pay the parking fees afterwards with your debit card.