The Simplicity of a Universal Digital Ticketing Solution in Europe
DV TICKETING is Digital Virgo’s mobile ticketing solution that enables users to buy and validate tickets for transport, parking, events and cultural offerings by SMS or in-app payment. The service uses Direct Carrier Billing (DCB), which allows the cost to be charged directly to the user’s mobile phone bill.
Using Direct Carrier Billing makes buying a ticket or paying for a service a simple and instant action. No more time wasted parking or purchasing metro tickets. With a single SMS, users can access a universal, secure and inclusive solution.
DV TICKETING has grown into a proven and widely adopted solution, with more than 30 European transport networks and parking operators and more than 4 million tickets sold in 2024.
These results confirm the strong adoption of mobile tickets and demonstrate the reliability of a model built in close collaboration with leading telecom operators.
On the operational side, DV TICKETING provides a comprehensive technological platform that connects transport operators with telecom billing infrastructures and covers the entire value chain. The system includes ticketing management, monitoring tools and advanced control applications designed to reduce fraud.
The carrier billing option can be integrated alongside existing payment methods in partners’ apps, offering users a wider choice without modifying their existing payment infrastructure.
The platform also offers real-time dashboards, detailed statistics and reporting features that allow partners to track performance and optimise results. With proven adoption rates and strong conversion levels, DV TICKETING shows how digital innovation can enhance accessibility and efficiency across the mobility landscape.
Inclusivity and Security at the Core of the Traveller’s Journey
One of the greatest strengths of DV TICKETING lies in its inclusivity. With DCB, any mobile user can pay for a ticket, regardless of whether they own a bank account or credit card. This approach opens access to essential mobility services to everyone, offering an accessible alternative, especially for those less comfortable with apps or digital tools.
In addition to inclusivity, security and reliability are guaranteed through the telecom billing infrastructure. Carrier billing ensures data protection and secure transactions, while reducing fraud risks and eliminating the need to share personal banking information.
The user experience is intuitive and adaptable to the needs of different transport operators. DV TICKETING offers two main purchase flows: the SMS Ticketing Flow and the Click-Flow (not available in Italy yet).
SMS Ticketing Flow (1 SMS = 1 Ticket): Travellers scan a QR code displayed on the operator’s communication touchpoint. An SMS message is automatically generated with the required text already filled in, and the user simply presses “Send” to purchase the ticket. They then receive an SMS containing a link to open and display the digital ticket, which can be used to access the service or presented during ticket inspection. This ticket-viewing step can be customised according to the transport operator’s specifications.
Click-Flow: Click-flow will be the next step in ticketing for Italy. Here, travellers access the transport operator’s app or web paywall, where Direct Carrier Billing is integrated as an additional payment method. The purchase is completed in three clicks, with the cost charged directly to the mobile phone bill, providing a smooth, secure and reliable in-app experience.
Both flows ensure simplicity, speed and inclusivity, enabling users to obtain their travel tickets instantly while giving transport operators flexibility in how they deliver the service.
Italy, the Perfect Ground for SMS Ticketing Success
Italy offers an ideal environment for the growth of mobile ticketing. The country benefits from extensive metro, bus and train networks and a rapidly increasing focus on eco-friendly and connected mobility services. These conditions support the adoption of digital solutions that simplify access to public transport.
The Italian public transportation market is on a steady upward trajectory. Revenue is expected to reach 8.8 billion euros in 2025 and exceed 9.9 billion euros by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 2.3%. User adoption is also rising. The number of public transport users is projected to reach 38.28 million by 2030, corresponding to a penetration rate of 66% (1).
Digitalisation is reshaping mobility habits across the country. By 2030, online channels are expected to generate around 31% of total public transportation revenue. This trend highlights the increasing importance of mobile solutions and digital payments in everyday travel.
These dynamics create favourable conditions for solutions such as DV TICKETING, which use digital payments and carrier billing to make public transport more accessible, sustainable and user-centric.
A Connected Ecosystem Shaping Urban Travel
DV TICKETING’s success in Italy is built on collaboration. By partnering with leading telecom operators and regional transport authorities, Digital Virgo has created a solid network capable of supporting large-scale deployment. Each partnership reinforces the solution’s local integration and enables people to use their mobile phones to move, park or charge their electric vehicles with ease. This ecosystem ensures that the digital transformation of mobility takes place through trusted local partnerships that combine technological expertise, regulatory compliance and user convenience.
Transport companies benefit from a simple and cost-effective way to digitalise ticket sales without investing in new infrastructure or developing dedicated applications. The service reduces cash handling and maintenance costs, streamlines operations and limits fraud by enabling secure validation through QR codes or SMS. It also reaches occasional travellers, tourists and users who may not rely on apps or traditional ticketing channels. With real-time dashboards and performance data, transport companies can monitor usage, optimise offers and improve the overall passenger experience.
For telecom operators, mobile ticketing powered by Direct Carrier Billing represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen their role in the mobility ecosystem. It creates additional revenue streams through micro-transactions and increases customer engagement through value-added services. By enabling simple and secure payments through the mobile bill, operators reinforce their position as trusted intermediaries between consumers and local services. In collaboration with Digital Virgo, they benefit from a scalable and fully compliant solution already deployed in multiple Italian cities, contributing to a stronger link between connectivity and everyday mobility.
Paving the Way for Smarter, Greener Cities
Universally available, secure, fast, easy… but also green. Solutions like DV TICKETING contribute to the development of smarter and more sustainable urban environments. By simplifying access to public transport and reducing dependence on physical tickets or cash payments, the service supports both environmental goals and digital inclusion.
As Italy continues its digital transformation, DV TICKETING stands as an example of how technology, telecom networks, and mobility providers can work together to make everyday travel easier, safer, and more inclusive.
Digital Virgo will continue expanding mobile ticketing across Italy and abroad, supporting mobility operators in offering secure and inclusive digital mobility payment solutions. Want to know more? Check our dedicated DV TICKETING landing page and contact our team here.
(1) Source: Statista
