- A Leap Card is the easiest way to pay for public transport.
- Dublin’s main services are Bus, Luas (tram), and DART/commuter rail.
- Always check the official transport sites for routes and updates.
Who this is for
Students who need to travel around Dublin for school, work, and daily life.
Your Leap Card Guide
The Leap Card is your key to getting around Dublin. Swipe through our quick visual guide to find the right card for you.
The Leap Card is a rechargeable smart card that works on all Dublin public transport — Bus, Luas, DART, and commuter rail. It saves you money compared to paying cash fares.
There are three main types. The right one for you depends on your age and whether you are a full-time student. All three cost just €10 to purchase.
Regular Leap Card
Available to anyone. Buy one immediately at Spar, Centra, SuperValu, or any DART station. No application needed.
Student Leap Card
Full-time students get 50% off all fares. Ask ULearn reception for your student letter, then apply at student.leapcard.ie. Collect your card at the TFI office (D01 RX04).
Young Adult (19–25)
Aged 19–25? You also get 50% off — even without being a student. Apply the same way and the card is posted directly to your home address.
Step-by-step
1) Get a Leap Card
Leap Card is the standard travel card for public transport. Buy it online or at approved locations.
2) Choose your transport
- **Bus:** Dublin Bus and other operators cover the city.
- **Luas:** Tram lines across central Dublin.
- **DART/Commuter:** Rail services along the coast and into the suburbs.
3) Tap on and off correctly
Follow the rules for each service (especially rail and Luas) to avoid penalties.
4) Plan routes in advance
Use official operator websites or the Transport for Ireland tools to plan your trip.
Documents, costs, timelines
- **Documents:** None for travel, but student/young adult discounts may require proof.
- **Costs:** Fares depend on route and distance.
- **Timelines:** Check live updates for delays and changes.
- **Documents:** None for travel, but student/young adult discounts may require proof.
- **Costs:** Fares depend on route and distance.
- **Timelines:** Check live updates for delays and changes.
Common mistakes (avoid these)
- Forgetting to tap off on rail or Luas
- Buying the wrong ticket type
- Not checking service updates before travel
If something goes wrong
If you are charged incorrectly or receive a fine, contact the operator directly. Student Success can help explain the process. Do not wait. Tell us early so we can help you.
- If you feel stuck, contact the Student Success Team.
How ULearn can help
- Show you how to get and use a Leap Card
- Explain the best routes to school and your accommodation
- Student life questions: contact the Student Success Team.
Sources (official)
- Leap Card (TFI): https://www.leapcard.ie/
- Dublin Bus: https://www.dublinbus.ie/
- Luas: https://www.luas.ie/
- Irish Rail (DART/commuter): https://www.irishrail.ie/
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