Ticket vending machine
From 1 August 2026, HTM will be phasing out its ticket machines
on the trams, and at a number of locations across the region.
The Netherlands is switching from the OV-chipkaart to OVpay, and ticket machines are being used less and less.
Do you still use a ticket machine to top up your OV-chipkaart or buy a single-journey ticket? If so, we’d be happy to help you find an alternative that suits you best.
What do you use the vending machine for?
Check the table below to see which is the best way for you to continue your journey.
| I'm topping up my public transport chip card | I’m buying individual tickets |
Switch to OVpay now Option 1. From now on, tap in and out with your debit card. Option 2. From now on, travel with the new OV-pas. Tip! Easily claim back any balance remaining on your OV-chipkaart. More info. | A. Buy your ticket(s) in the HTM app B. Buy your ticket(s) at an HTM Service Shop C. Check in and out easily using your (contactless) debit card. |
I’d like to continue using my OV-chipkaart for a while longer A. You can now only top up your balance at NS ticket machines and HTM Service Shops. B. If you have a personalised OV-chipkaart (with a passport photo): Enable automatic top-up
| Tip! Children aged 4 to 11 living in The Hague can travel for free with Kids voor Niks. Apply now via The Hague City Council. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I still use coins to load balance or buy a ticket?
At the HTM Service Shops you can still pay with coins. You will find the HTM Service Shops at The Hague Central Station and The Hague Holland Spoor, and at the Centrum-West stop in Zoetermeer. Opening hours can be found here.
Will the ticket machines in the tram remain?
The ticket machines will be taken out of service on August 1 2026.
Fewer and fewer passengers use the vending machines, mainly because of the arrival of travel with your debit card or new OV-pas (OVpay) and the HTM app in which you can conveniently plan your trip and quickly buy a ticket.
Do i still need to use the ticket machine?
No, you don’t need to use the ticket machine. You can check in and out with your contactless debit card, credit card, or mobile phone.
Why are the ticket machines being removed?
The phasing out of ticket machines is a logical step that reflects changing travel habits, the growth of OVpay and the need to use resources efficiently. Passengers who use ticket machines now have fully-fledged alternatives, whilst HTM is future-proofing its services.
How much longer will the OV-chipkaart remain valid?
Travel using the balance on your OV-chipkaart will remain possible until the end of 2027 at the latest.
Where in the region will I still be able to top up my balance from 1 August 2026?
From 1 August, you can still top up your balance at NS ticket machines at all NS stations. You can also visit the HTM Service Shops in The Hague and Zoetermeer.
Where can I top up my new public transport card?
With the new public transport pass, you can easily top up your balance online via htm.nl or ovpay.nl. You can also top up your balance at one of the HTM Service Shops.
From June 2026, Primera will be selling a special public transport pass that allows you to top up your balance at the checkout in Primera shops.
How much does a public transport pass cost, and how long is it valid for?
The public transport pass costs a one-off fee of €6, regardless of where you buy it. The pass is valid for five years. This is the same validity period as the OV-chipkaart.
