When riding the new light rail system, passengers tap their ORCA smart cards on a card reader at the station before they board the train. At the end of the ride, card holders tap it again on the reader where they exit the station. The ORCA card readers will automatically deduct the correct fare and show the amount paid. As fare officials come around and check tickets, simply flashing the card is not enough. Special readers can verify whether or not the ORCA card has been tapped at the door.

The ORCA smart card is part of a collaborative regional fare system for western Washington. Seven public transportation agencies are participating in the program. Not limited to light rail, the ORCA card can be used on ferries, trains, and buses. Passengers can move smoothly between the different forms of transportation with the smart card. When riders register their cards online, they are also guaranteed balance protection. Should the card ever be lost or stolen, ORCA card officials can assist in replacing the smart card and recovering the balance.