A Look Back at the Muni Fast Pass

Thursday, October 3, 2024

Archival photo in black and white that features former San Francisco Mayor Dianne Feinstein in Civic Center Station helping to promote a type of Fast Pass along with other officials at a press conference.

Press conference with San Francisco Mayor Dianne Feinstein at Civic Center Station for the launch of the interagency Fast Pass. This type of Fast Pass was good for Muni and BART within the city. | March 24, 1983

Today, we dive into Muni history with a colorful relic of the past, the Fast Pass.

Muni introduced the monthly Fast Pass in May 1974. It proved popular among riders and operators alike. They were a deal for riders, “good for unlimited riding, all routes, at all times.” An efficient way to pay, they reduced operating costs and dwell time, speeding up vehicles. These positive results ensured their longevity as a proof of payment method.

Fast Passes were available for purchase at all kinds of businesses across the city. You could find them in a variety of places, from hardware stores and hobby shops to delis and boutiques. They were also available at Muni stations or through the mail, directly from the Municipal Railway.

Photo of a San Francisco Chronicle newspaper ad from the 1970s promoting the Muni Fast Pass and sharing a list of locations where it could be purchased.

Advertisement in the San Francisco Chronicle | April 19, 1974

A visual treat, the Fast Pass was colorful, even glitzy at times, with holographic stripes, holiday themes, 3D images and die cut designs. Here are a just few of our favorites.

Photo features a collection of Fast Passes. Many feature bright colors and playful designs, including a sailboat.

Festive Fast Pass designs through the years.

Starting in 1994, the Muni Fast Pass had a standard look which featured a holographic stripe down the middle. A large black letter printed on the Fast Pass designated which type of pass it was. Types included: Lifeline Pass “L”, Youth Pass “Y”, Senior Pass “S”, Muni Pass “M” and the interagency Muni-BART Pass “A”.

Image of an Adult Fast Pass that's green and blue and valid for June 2009.

June 2009 Fast Pass featuring a holographic stripe with the Muni worm logo.

As Muni switched to Clipper, the Fast Pass ceased in 2014, but its fans live on. The Fast Pass exists today in many different reincarnations, from Muni fan swag, art and apparel to the new SF City FC branding. This merchandise is rich with nostalgia and a display of hometown pride.