Frequently asked questions
How can I replace my lost Clipper Card?
Email student-services@sv.cmu.edu to report a lost Clipper Card. CMU-SV will deactivate the old card and issue a replacement. You may receive up to two free replacement cards; after the second replacement, you will become ineligible for a third.
What should I do if my Clipper Card stops working on VTA and/or Caltrain?
Email student-services@sv.cmu.edu to report a lost Clipper Card. CMU-SV will deactivate the old card and issue a replacement. You may receive up to two free replacement cards; after the second replacement, you will become ineligible for a third.
First, ensure your Clipper Card has not been added to a mobile wallet — doing so deactivates the card. If not, troubleshoot by checking:
- Have you successfully used the card before?
- Are you tapping at the correct Clipper Card reader? (VTA and Caltrain have different readers.)
- Watch a video on how to tag your Clipper Card correctly
Are you only experiencing issues with the Clipper Card on Caltrain? If so, please check whether you have renewed your pass for the current year. Caltrain requires students to apply for a new pass each calendar year. To apply for a new pass or confirm your renewal status, email student-services@sv.cmu.edu.
If your card still does not work, email student-services@sv.cmu.edu for help. If needed, they can deactivate your old pass and issue you a new one.
Why am I being charged a transportation fee even if I won't use a pass?
The transportation fee is part of all CMU-SV students' program expenses and cannot be waived, similar to how it is assessed at CMU Pittsburgh. Even if you have a car, you might benefit from a VTA or Caltrain pass for academic commuting.
Does my Clipper Card work on BART, Muni, or SamTrans?
CMU’s student transit passes extend to the VTA buses and light rail as well as Caltrain. You will need a separate payment or loaded value for BART, SamTrans, Muni, and other transit systems. More information can be found on the Clipper Card website.
Can I add other transit passes (like BART or Muni) to my Clipper Card?
Yes! You can load funds or additional transit passes (like BART, AC Transit, or Muni) directly onto your CMU-SV-issued Clipper Card. Just make sure not to add your CMU Clipper Card to a mobile wallet, or it will deactivate.
Are there any bike laws I should know about?
Yes! Helmets are required by law when biking on Moffett Field property (where the CMU-SV campus is located). Always use a bike lock and stay aware of local traffic rules. All bike and scooter policies for CMU-SV, including local laws, can be found on the CMU-SV facilities and campus policies webpage.
What are the rules for bikes and scooters on campus?
CMU-SV has guidelines in place to help keep the campus safe and accessible for everyone. There are designated areas for parking and charging, and certain safety rules apply when biking or scootering around Moffett Field. You can find the most current bike and scooter policies on the CMU-SV facilities and campus policies webpage.
Where can I park on campus if I decide to drive?
Parking is available in the NASA Research Park, specifically in the lot behind Building 23. There is no fee or permit required for parking in this designated area. However, please note that long-term parking is not allowed on campus. NASA Protective Services policy permits parking for up to a maximum of 18 hours. For more information, visit the CMU-SV facilities and campus policies webpage.