And, they are free during August.
San Francisco just isn’t the same without cable cars, and they are expected to be returning full service with regular fares in September. The cable car rides, which usually attract throngs of tourists, have been shuttered since the start of the pandemic.

In August, SFMTA will be testing cable cars throughout the City. And, if you see one you can get on at a stop and take a cable car ride free of charge. Cable cars are not be running typical service and will not be on a normal schedule until September.

Nothing says San Francisco like a cable car ride — up and down, rolling up and down the hills.
—London Breed, SF Mayor