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keycard

Using the key

How do I use my key on the bus?

To use your key on the bus all you have to do is place it on the key reader at the front of the bus.

It will beep and show you a green light which confirms that your ticket is valid for travel. You can then take a seat as usual.

Can I use my key smartcard on other bus services or Metro?

You can only use your key on services operated by Go North East.  At a later date to be announced, you will be able to buy tickets, or store cash on your key which you will be able use on bus services operated by other companies and the Tyne & Wear Metro in addition to Go North East.

When can I use a new ticket on the bus?

If you have purchased a ticket for your key card or are looking to do that today, please note that tickets bought before 0930 will be ready for use the following day.  Tickets bought after this may take up to 48 hours before they can be used.

Our future plans are that tickets will be loaded onto the key within an hour of purchase.

How do I know the ticket has been loaded onto my key successfully?

When you use your key on the bus the key reader will beep and show you an orange light and then a green light.  This confirms that your ticket has been loaded and is valid for travel.  If you get a red light ask the driver for help in the first instance and if you are still having problems you can check:

How do I find out when my ticket on the key is due to expire?

You can find out when your ticket expires by checking

Do I need a new key smartcard when my Buzzfare or Get Around ticket expires?

No. You simply buy new tickets for your existing key smartcard, online, by telephone or from one of our travel centres and we’ll add it to your key automatically.

If I try to use my key after my ticket has expired how will I know?  What shall I do?

If your ticket has expired and is no longer valid for travel the key reader will bleep quickly five times, a red light will be shown and the message “expired” will display on the reader. This confirms that you don’t have a valid ticket.  If you get a red light and are unsure of the reason ask the driver for help in the first instance, check your online key account afterwards, email us at thekey@gonortheast.co.uk or give us a call on 0191 420 5050.

Why don't you just print a ticket expiry date on my key smartcard?

We don't print an expiry date on your key smartcard as it is designed to be used again and again.