The Bavarian state government plans to gradually roll out the smartphone-based tap in/tap out ticketing system across the public transport network from the beginning of 2027.
The aim is to simplify ticket purchasing and automatically calculate fares for passengers.
According to the transport ministry in Bavaria, travellers will use a mobile app to check in before boarding a bus, the U-Bahn or train and check out when they reach their destination.
The system will then automatically determine the correct fare, removing the need for passengers to manually buy the correct ticket.
It is hoped that the system will work across different regional transport networks, allowing passengers to travel easily across the state.
Similar technology is already in place in some regions of Bavaria, including Munich's transport network. There, the process is known as "swiping" and requires that passengers swipe on a smartphone screen to begin and end a journey.
No plans for a 'Bayern Ticket'
The state government said it had abandoned the idea of a standardised ticketing and fare system across Bavaria.
According to the transport ministry, the Deutschlandticket – a nationwide travel pass that allows people to use public transport across Germany for €63 per month – is now the key priority.
Criticism has come from the Greens in the state parliament. Mobility spokesperson Markus Büchler said he regretted that the 'Bayern-Ticket' is not to be developed further.
"Resting on the laurels of the Deutschlandticket is not enough," he said. "Attractive offers must finally be created, particularly for people who only travel by bus and train occasionally."
In the Greens’ view, buying tickets must also be made easier and the fare system clearer. Furthermore, all regions of Bavaria should be connected to efficient transport networks. There are still gaps, particularly in Swabia and Lower Bavaria, Büchler said, adding that modern public transport "is not really feasible without an integrated network".
Unlike many other countries, Germany has no ticket barriers at transport stations. Instead, it uses an 'open-door honesty' system with random ticket checks.
