Checking in and out with the OV-pas
After almost fifteen years, the OV-chipkaart is being retired. It will be replaced by a new card with innovative technology: the OV-pas. Here you can read how it works and how to switch.
What is the OV-pas?
The OV-pas replaces the OV-chipkaart. It is a plastic card, but there are many technical changes behind it.
Your personal details are no longer stored on the card itself but in a secure online database. This lets you manage more online without having to visit an NS Ticket Machine, though you may still do so if you wish.
Ordering an OV-pas
If you have a season ticket with us, you will receive information in 2026 about your new OV-pas. Please do not order a separate card, as your NS season ticket will not be on it.
Do you not have an NS season ticket?
Order a separate OV-pas on OVpay.nl or travel using your payment card. In both cases, you will travel without a discount and always in 2nd class.
Do you already have an OV-pas?
At the moment you are travelling with your OV-pas using the stored balance, without a discount. We cannot yet load NS season tickets onto an OV-pas.
How to travel with your OV-pas
Not much will change for you. The OV-pas remains a single card for train, bus, tram and metro travel.
Viewing your costs
When you check out, your balance and fare for your journey will no longer appear on the gate or reader. You can see your journeys and costs in the OVpay app or in Mijn NS.
Checking and topping up your balance
Check your balance and top it up via the OVpay app. This is not yet possible at our NS Ticket Machines or OV Service & Tickets shops. A train conductor or service staff member can assist you with your balance.
Make sure you always have at least € 20 on your OV-pas before you check in.
Frequently Asked Questions about the OV-pas
Do you have other questions? See all frequently asked questions about travelling with your OV-pas