How to begin a ParkMobile session by mobile app or phone

This document explains how to begin a ParkMobile session on the ParkMobile app or by phone to pay for parking on the UW-Madison campus. ParkMobile is a payment system used for Flex Surface permit parking sessions, after-hours Flex parking, and visitor parking in timed stalls.

Mobile app instructions

  1. In the ParkMobile app, search for the ParkMobile zone code in the search bar.

    How to find your zone code:

    • Flex permit holders: the code is located on your parking permit. Use this code for parking in your assigned lot or parking in an alternate lot after hours.
    • Flex Accessible permit holders always use zone code 25099.
    • If you are parking in a timed stall, the code is located on the stall sign.

      Screenshot of the ParkMobile app showing where to enter the five-digit zone code to begin a new parking session.

      Screenshot of the ParkMobile app showing where to enter the five-digit ParkMobile zone code to begin a parking session.


  2. If the app shows more than one city associated with your zone code, be sure to select "UW Madison."

    Screenshot of the ParkMobile app showing where to select the correct city associated with a zone code.


  3. Enter the amount of time you plan to park.

    Tips:
     
    • It is recommended to choose "By the Hour and Minute" and an estimated parking time. Selecting "Maximum parking time" may result in non-refundable charges in excess of the actual time you plan to park.
    • Flex Surface permit holders can use the app to extend their parking session if needed.
    • Those parking in timed parking stalls may not extend a parking session or park for longer than the time posted on the stall sign.
    • ParkMobile will not allow time entries, whether full or partial, outside the range of the lot's enforcement hours. You only need to be in paid status during enforcement hours.

      Screenshot of the ParkMobile app showing how to enter the estimated parking time.


  4. Tap "Set Duration."

    Screenshot of the ParkMobile app showing how to use the selection tool to enter a parking time.


  5. Verify your parking time and vehicle information. Then tap "Proceed to Checkout" and follow the prompts to pay for your session.

    Screenshot of the ParkMobile app showing how to proceed to checkout to pay for a parking session after entering the desired parking time.

    Screenshot of the ParkMobile app showing the parking time, estimated charge, and vehicle information to verify before proceeding to checkout.

Begin a ParkMobile session by phone

  1. Call Parkmobile at (877) 727-5003.

  2. Follow the prompts to enter information and pay for parking.

    Tips: 

    • You will need to confirm the zone, license plate, and details of your session.
    • The system will tell you the maximum number of hours available to park. It is recommended to enter an estimated parking time. Selecting the maximum parking time may result in non-refundable charges in excess of the actual time you plan to park.

Related resources



Keywords:
parking, flex parking, visitor parking, surface lot parking, pay for parking
Doc ID:
147037
Owned by:
Lauren V. in UW Transportation Services
Created:
2024-12-17
Updated:
2025-06-30
Sites:
UW Transportation Services