ParkBoston

Is this the same ParkBoston app I’ve been using?

Yes. This is the updated, official ParkBoston app. It may look a little different, but it's still the City of Boston’s parking app, now powered by Passport Labs, Inc.

Do I need to download a new app?

No. If you have the ParkBoston app already installed, it should update automatically. If not, check the App Store or Google Play to manually update.

What changed in the new version?

The City of Boston selected a new provider through a public bidding process, and the ParkBoston app is now powered by Passport. While the app may look slightly different, it still offers the same core parking functionality.

Do I need to create a new account?

If you’ve used the ParkBoston app before, you’ll be asked to verify your email the first time you log in. We’ll carry over your profile and vehicle information automatically. For security reasons, we’re not able to transfer saved payment methods, so you’ll need to re-add a payment method before starting a new parking session.

I forgot my PIN — what is it, and how do I reset it?

As part of setting up your new ParkBoston account, you’ll create a 4-digit PIN used to log into the app. If you forget it later, you can reset your PIN from the login screen by verifying your email.

Please note: For security reasons, resetting your PIN will remove any saved payment methods, so you’ll need to re-enter them before your next parking session.

I didn’t use email before. Can I still access my account?

If you didn’t have an email associated with your ParkBoston account in the old app, we won’t be able to match your previous profile or vehicle information in the new app. To use the updated ParkBoston app, you’ll need to create a new account using an email address.

An email is now required to help keep your account secure and allow for easier login and recovery in the future.

Can I update my account information?

Yes. In the app or at park.boston.gov, go to the Menu and open your Profile. You can update your name and phone number there. If you want to change your email address, you’ll need to create a new account.

Can I deactivate my account?

Yes. Log in at park.boston.gov by clicking “Pay Online” and following the login flow. Go to your Profile, and select “Deactivate.” Any remaining balance (after applicable deductions) will be refunded. Deactivated accounts cannot be reactivated; you’ll need to create a new one if you want to use the app again.

How does ParkBoston use my email?

We use your email address only to send you important information regarding your ParkBoston account, or special offers for being a loyal customer. It is never sold or shared.

How do I start a parking session?

You can start a session in two ways:

• Enter the zone number directly on the main screen (you’ll find this number on nearby signs or meters).
• Tap a zone on the map view to select your location.

Once selected, choose how long you want to park, confirm your license plate, and complete your payment.

How do I find the right zone number?

Zone numbers are displayed on signs or meters near your parking spot. Make sure to enter the exact number listed to avoid a ticket.

Can I extend my session?

Yes. If your zone allows it, you’ll see an option to extend time before your session expires. Tap the active session on the home screen to add time.

Why is it that sometimes I can extend parking and sometimes I can’t?

You may have reached the maximum time allowed for the zone, or it may be outside posted hours or restricted for another reason (e.g. rush hour). Always check signage.

How do I add or change my license plate?

Go to Menu > Vehicles to add, edit, or remove license plates. Make sure the correct plate is selected before starting a session. If you have a specialty and vanity license plate, be sure to enter the full number, including stacked characters if applicable.

Can I park multiple vehicles?

Yes. You can add multiple vehicles to your account by going to Menu > Vehicles. You can also have multiple active parking sessions at the same time, regardless of which vehicle you're using. Just make sure to select the correct plate each time you start a session.

Can I move my car to a new zone during an active session?

You can start a second session in a new zone before the first one expires. You cannot change the zone or vehicle information on an active session. 

Can I get reminders when my session is about to expire?

Yes. The app will send a push notification before your session ends, if you’ve enabled notifications. You can also check your remaining time at any time by opening the app and tapping your active session.

Can I use the app to park in other cities?

The ParkBoston app is designed for parking in the City of Boston, but some nearby towns may also support it. Check local signage to see if ParkBoston is accepted in that area.

How can I view my parking history or get a receipt from the prior version of ParkBoston before the update?

You can view individual sessions and email yourself receipts by going to Menu > History in the ParkBoston app. If you're using a web browser, visit park.boston.gov and click “Pay Online” to follow the login flow. Go to Parker History, select a date range, and download a report.

Note: This method will only include transactions that occurred after the transition to the new ParkBoston provider in August 2025. Sessions from before that date will not appear here. 

How do I access receipts from before the app transition?

First, check your email inbox for confirmation messages or receipts. If you can’t find them, log in to your ParkMobile account to access your session history. For further assistance, contact parkboston@boston.gov.

How do I use a validation code?

If you’ve received a validation code (for example, from a business or promotion), you can enter it during checkout in the ParkBoston app. Here’s how:

1. Start a parking session as usual.
2. On the payment screen, tap “Add Promo Code”.
3. Enter the code and apply it.
4. Your total will update to reflect the discount or covered amount.

Make sure to enter the code before completing your payment. Validation codes may have expiration dates or location restrictions. Check the details provided with the code.

My validation code isn’t working — what should I do?

Make sure the code was entered exactly as given, with no spaces or typos. Some codes may only work in specific zones or for a limited time. If it still doesn’t apply, the code may no longer be valid or may not be eligible for your current session.

What payment methods are accepted?

You can pay with a credit or debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or by using a prefunded wallet in the app.

How does the prefunded wallet work?

You can preload your wallet with $20–$100 using your preferred payment method. When your wallet is less than the amount of the parking session you are paying for, you’ll be prompted to reload it before your next session. 

The default reload amount is $10 minimum, but you can choose an amount above $10 to add. Reloads only happen with your confirmation at the time of parking session creation.

What happened to my wallet balance from the prior version of ParkBoston before the update?

Upon request, existing ParkBoston wallet funds will be refunded by ParkMobile, our previous app provider. To request a refund, simply head to the Payment Methods section of the ParkBoston app before the update and select “Delete Wallet”.

Otherwise, your wallet will remain available for your use in the ParkMobile’s general app, and while ParkMobile will no longer be accepted at City of Boston meters, these funds can still be used in all cities throughout North America where ParkMobile is available.

If you have already updated your app to the Passport version, or have questions about wallet refunds, please contact parkboston@boston.gov.

Why don’t I see my previously saved credit or debit cards?

For security reasons, saved payment methods from the previous app were not transferred to the new ParkBoston app. You’ll need to add a new payment method when you log in for the first time. This helps ensure your payment information stays protected.

Can I save credit card information for future use?

Yes, under Menu > Payments, you can save your credit or debit card information and set a default payment method in the app.

How do I use Apple Pay or Google Pay?

In the ParkBoston app, you’ll be prompted to enable these while starting a parking session. Once set up, they’ll appear as saved methods in the app menu. You will be prompted to select your payment method when creating your parking session. Select the Apple Pay or Google Pay option.

Is there a fee to use ParkBoston?

Yes, a convenience fee of $0.35 is applied to each parking session, time extension, and wallet reload.

How can I view my parking history or get a receipt from the current version of ParkBoston after the update?

You can view individual sessions and email yourself receipts by going to Menu > History in the ParkBoston app. Tap on an individual session to see the option to Email Receipt.

If you're using a web browser, visit park.boston.gov and click “Pay Online” to follow the login flow. Go to Parker History, select a date range, and download a report.

Note: This method will only include transactions that occurred after the transition to the new ParkBoston provider in Aug. 2025. Sessions from before that date will not appear here. 

How can I view my parking history or get a receipt from the prior version of ParkBoston before the update?

First, check your email inbox for confirmation messages or receipts. If you can’t find them, log in to your ParkMobile account to access your session history. For further assistance, contact parkboston@boston.gov.

Can I pay without downloading the app?

Yes. You can pay online by visiting park.boston.gov and clicking “Pay Online.” It will open a secure browser page where you can log in, create sessions, manage your vehicle and payment information, and email yourself receipts.

Do I need to create an account to pay for parking?

No. You can use Guest Checkout: parkboston.paywithpassport.com/guest

It will open a secure browser page to start a parking session without creating an account. Just enter your plate number, payment info, and email address, and you're all set.

What are the benefits of creating an account?

Creating an account in the ParkBoston app gives you access to:

• Saved payment methods and vehicles
• Parking history and digital receipts
• The ability to extend sessions
• Wallet funding and faster checkout

Can I use guest checkout in the app?

No, guest checkout is only available through a web browser. To use the app, you'll need to create or log in to an account.

The app isn’t loading or is crashing, what should I do?

Try closing and reopening the app. If problems continue, reinstall the app from the App Store or Google Play.

Still having issues? Visit the “Support” section in the app or contact us at support@passportinc.com.

I can’t log in, what should I check?

Make sure you're using the email address you registered with. Double-check for any typos or errors caused by autofill. If you're new to ParkBoston, follow the steps in the app to create a new account.

I didn’t receive my 6 digit one-time verification email.

First, check your spam or junk folder. If it’s not there, wait a few minutes and try again. Still having trouble? Try using a different email address or contact support at support@passportinc.com.

What devices and browsers are supported by the ParkBoston app?

The ParkBoston app is available on smartphones with iOS 13 or Android 5.0 and above. Smartphone users with older versions or different operating systems can use the web app. When using mobile pay web to pay for parking online, a modern browser like Chrome is most compatible.

What if I entered the wrong zone or license plate?

You cannot change the zone or plate information on a session once it’s started.

First, start a new session with the correct zone and vehicle info. This will ensure that you do not receive a parking ticket in error.

Second, go to Menu > Support > Contact Us to open a support ticket, asking that the initial session be refunded. Please note: refunds will be considered on a case-by-case basis by support and the City.

Can I transfer my parking session to another vehicle or person?

No, sessions are tied to the license plate you enter and cannot be transferred.

Can I start a parking session in advance or reserve a spot?

No, the app does not support reservations or starting sessions before you park.

Can I apply for a residential permit?

Not via the ParkBoston app, but visit boston.gov/parkingpermits to apply for and manage your residential parking permit.

What happens if my phone battery dies during a session?

Your session remains active and valid even if your phone dies. Enforcement is based on your license plate and session status, not your phone.

I cannot save my credit card to the app.

First, double-check that your card number, expiration date, CVV, and zip code are entered correctly and that the card isn’t expired.

If it still doesn’t work, try the following:

• Use a different card
• Switch between WiFi and mobile data
• Update to the latest version of the app
• Uninstall and reinstall the app
• Use Apple Pay or Google Pay instead
• Try online at park.boston.gov via login or guest checkout experience

If you're still having trouble, in the app go to Menu > Support > Contact Us to open a support ticket. Include details like your device type, any error messages, and what you've already tried.

Payment failed or I got an error message. What should I do?

Try a different payment method or switch from WiFi to mobile data. Check signage for information about events or restricted times. If you think you were charged without a session starting, please contact support immediately. Go to Menu > Support > Contact Us to open a support ticket, asking that the session be refunded. Please note: refunds will be considered on a case-by-case basis by support and the City.

Can I get a refund for unused parking time?

No. Refunds are not issued for unused time. Always check signage before confirming your session.

I see multiple charges on my bank statement. Could it be fraud?

If something looks incorrect, contact your card provider immediately. Then submit a support request via the app or by emailing support@passportinc.com. We’ll help you determine if the charges are legitimate.

I got a ticket but I paid for parking, what should I do?

Visit boston.gov/tickets, enter your ticket number, and follow the instructions to submit an appeal. Provide as much information about your paid parking session as possible: your name, license plate, email address, meter number, zone number, and date/time of session. Include a screenshot of your session history in the app, download and attach the ParkBoston receipt, or add a photograph of your paper receipt where possible.

Please tell us about it! Go to Menu > Support > Contact Us to open a support ticket, including as much information about your request as you can. Our support team will get back to you promptly.

You can email support@passportinc.com, or call us at 704-817-2500 or Toll Free (US): 866-477-9773.