Public transport users who received a free Myki card when the system was introduced for Melbourne metropolitan trains in 2009 will soon have to replace their cards. 

But Public Transport Victoria has reassured card holders they will be replaced free of charge with their full balance intact, provided the existing card is registered or the out-of-date card is handed in for replacement.

“Any registered card will be replaced free of charge while unregistered cards can be swapped over at staffed stations,” PTV spokesman Adrian Darwent said.

Some Ballarat bus service passengers who started using the Myki cards when they were introduced have already had to swap over their cards. 

Those who purchased their Myki cards this year when introduced for regional rail services will not have to replace theirs until 2017.

Myki cards can be registered online at http://ptv.vic.gov.au or by phone on 1800 800 007.