McLean, Va is home of some of the biggest tech companies in the world, bringing in thousands of commuters every day to work. But if you are just moving here, you may get overwhelmed and confused figuring out all of the transportation options for you. This is a quick guide so you can begin taking advantage of public transportation.

Get a SmarTrip Card

To begin your adventure around the McLean, you will need a SmarTrip card. This card allows you to access public transportation that will take you through Virginia, DC, and Maryland on the Metrorail and Metrobuses.

You can purchase a single or multi-day temporary pass or a refillable SmarTrip card.

You can purchase a SmarTrip card at local stores, the WMATA website, or on mobile apps(Apple and Google).  You can easily add funds to your refillable cards through the WMATA website, mobile app, or bus/metro station kiosks. To use your card —just tap at the station or bus scanners to ride. 

Unlimited Day Passes

• 1 day – $15.50
• 3 day – $35.75

Stored Fare Card

• $10 (card is $2 + comes with $8 fare stored)

Metro

McLean boasts two Metro stations, each connecting lines that provide convenient access throughout Northern Virginia, DC, and southern Maryland. The Metro system is generally reliable and widely used by those commuting across the region. However, be sure to check the schedule for your train, as occasional delays or maintenance may impact the schedule.

Use your SmarTrip card to get past the gates.
Fare: $2.25 – $6.75 (Depends on trip length)

The length of your trip determines the fare amount. Use the WMATA Trip Planner to calculate your trip costs and time.

Ride Sharing App

Several on-demand car services are available. Simply download the app, register with a credit card, and set a pick-up and destination to be matched with a driver in minutes. Always confirm your driver by calling, texting, or checking the car details to ensure you’re in the correct vehicle.

Beware that costs may be higher or driver availability limited near hotspots like Tyson’s Corner depending on the time of day.

Bus

McLean has two bus systems: Fairfax Connector, which only covers Fairfax County and the WMATA buses that cover Northern Virginia and Washington DC.

• Fairfax Connector Bus Routes Fare: $2.25
• WMATA Bus Routes Fare: $2.25

Upon leaving the metro, your SmarTrip card will get you two hours of free bus-to-bus transfers.

Drive

Traffic to and from McLean can get vicious. Rush hour is the worst time to be driving (obviously) but there can also be major slowdowns throughout the day as well. Because of this, it is good practice to check your GPS an hour or more before leaving your house.

Northern Virginia has toll roads you can take to save time on your commute. However, check your GPS before taking these toll roads. Depending on the day and time, the toll road can either save you 20 minutes or 30 seconds. Tolls are payable with an EZ Pass or pay-by-the-plate. Using an EZ Pass will discount your toll fee.

Bikes and Scooters

McLean is definitely car-centric. Unlike some other Northern Virginia areas, there are not many bike paths, and isn’t very walkable. So, if you’re biking or scootering, be prepared to cross a few busy roads along the way.

Taxi

Taxis…I don’t know anybody who still uses them, but everyone has their preferences. You can either hail a taxi in the street (if you spot one) or reach out to  Fairfax Yellow Cab or Dulles Taxi directly.

Carpooling

Carpooling is an option in McLean for those looking to help the environment or just save money on gas. You will also get to use the HOV lanes(reserved for cars with multiple passengers) on the Dulles Toll Road to get to your destination faster. For carpooling options, look at Carpool Mclean and Mclean Crossing Connect.