How does the ticket slip work on the NJ Transit rail?
It tells the conductor in a glance where you got on and where you are supposed to get off, so you dont cheat the system by riding further than what you paid. A similar system is used on MetroNorth, LIRR and Amtrak. Be sure to take the ticket slip with you if you change seats, since that is your proof of payment. Ticket slips sometimes are not issued to passengers with a weekly or monthly pass, which you would just show if a conductor, police or other official asks you for proof of payment.