A Practical FAQ for Transit Agencies, Operators and Payment Stakeholders

Publication Date: June 2026

Transit stakeholders frequently encounter questions regarding payment network requirements for Payment Card Industry PIN Transaction Security Point of Interaction (PCI PTS POI) approved devices, particularly as contactless payment acceptance continues to expand across transit environments.

Developed by the U.S. Payments Forum’s Mobility & Transport Payments Working Committee, this practical FAQ helps clarify common questions surrounding PCI PTS POI requirements for transit payment terminals. The resource explains the roles of PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) and EMVCo, outlines why PCI PTS POI requirements may apply to contactless acceptance devices, and summarizes current payment network requirements and recommendations related to transit access terminals.

Designed as a quick-reference resource, the FAQ provides practical guidance for transit agencies, operators, payment technology providers, and other stakeholders evaluating transit payment acceptance environments.

The FAQ Covers

  • The role of PCI SSC and EMVCo within the payments ecosystem
  • PCI PTS POI standards and their purpose
  • EMVCo certification and approval processes
  • The relationship between EMVCo and PCI SSC requirements
  • Why contactless-only terminals may require PCI PTS POI approval
  • Current payment network requirements and recommendations for transit access terminals
  • Resources for additional information and guidance

 

Why This Matters

As transit agencies and operators continue to deploy contactless payment acceptance, understanding applicable security requirements is critical. This FAQ provides stakeholders with a consolidated reference point for understanding PCI PTS POI considerations and payment network expectations for transit payment terminals.

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Please note: The information and materials available on this web page (“Information”) is provided solely for convenience and does not constitute legal or technical advice. All representations or warranties, express or implied, are expressly disclaimed, including without limitation, implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and all warranties regarding accuracy, completeness, adequacy, results, title and non-infringement. All Information is limited to the scenarios, stakeholders and other matters specified, and should be considered in light of applicable laws, regulations, industry rules and requirements, facts, circumstances and other relevant factors. None of the Information should be interpreted or construed to require or promote the establishment of any solution, practice, configuration, rule, requirement or specification inconsistent with applicable legal requirements, any of which requirements may change over time. The U.S. Payments Forum assumes no responsibility to support, maintain or update the Information, regardless of any such change. Use of or reliance on the Information is at the user’s sole risk, and users are strongly encouraged to consult with their respective payment networks, acquirers, processors, vendors and appropriately qualified technical and legal experts prior to all implementation decisions.

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