aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Starting summer quarter, Western bus passes will be done entirely via the Umo App

Takes the place of using Western Cards to pay for bus fare

See instructions below for how to download and use the free Umo app, which will take the place of your Western Card for riding WTA.

After nearly 20 years of using the Western Card as bus fare, Western riders will soon transition to a more modern mobile-based system.

Starting Summer Quarter 2025, all bus passes for Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) will be issued exclusively through the Umo Mobility App, as part of a new agreement between WTA and Western Washington University.

To ride the bus, students and employees will need to use the Umo Mobility app and redeem their quarterly benefit code to ride the bus. Redeeming your benefit code is quick and easy. Instructions can be found on Transportation Services’ website.

  • Students who have paid the Active Transportation Fee will receive an email with details to redeem your personal benefit code which is kept secure on Banner. For quarters you are not automatically assessed the Active Transportation Fee, you can opt-in online to receive a benefits code.
  • Employees will receive a similar email with details to redeem their personal benefit code which is also kept secure on Banner.

This change comes in response to the university’s decision phase out physical Western cards, which will no longer be supported by WTA’s fareboxes.

For those without a smartphone, Transportation Services will have a limited number of physical Umo Mobility cards available.

Common questions about the Umo transition

We’ve heard several important questions from students and employees about the shift to the Umo Mobility App. Here are a few clarifications:

  • What if my phone dies while I'm out?
    WTA drivers are aware this can happen. If your phone battery dies mid-trip or right before boarding, you may be asked to show your activated pass later or visit Transportation Services for a replacement solution. We recommend planning ahead if possible, especially for longer outings.
  • What if I lose signal or the app malfunctions?
    The Umo app stores your activated pass locally, so you don’t need an active internet connection to board, just a charged phone.
  • What if I don’t have a smartphone?
    Transportation Services has a limited number of physical Umo Mobility cards available. These cards function like a digital pass and can be scanned on the bus, just like the app.
  • What if my screen is too wet or cracked to scan?
    If you're unable to scan your pass due to screen issues, drivers may offer temporary accommodations. You can also request a physical card as a backup.

We’re committed to ensuring every Western rider has access to reliable, flexible transportation options. If you have concerns or need a physical Umo card, please don’t hesitate to reach out or stop by Transportation Services.

Questions?

For questions on how to redeem your quarterly benefit code or to get a physical Umo Mobility card, please visit Transportation Services Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Old Main 120, go to the Transportation Services website or email WWU Associate Director of Active Transportation Andrea Reiter at reitera@wwu.edu.