Finding transportation in DC: Resources and questions to consider

Transportation options in DC come in many forms. There’s low-cost (and even free) transportation to medical appointments, social service offices, and some other destinations. Depending on your needs, you can also book transportation to help you board a vehicle, or even assist you from door-to-door. Bear in mind that the more needs you have (both physically and financially), the less flexible the options are.

When choosing the right transportation option for you, consider:

Are there eligibility requirements?

Some programs have age, disability, or income criteria. You may need to provide your:

• Age
• Household income
• Disability or mobility limitations
• Veteran status

Be sure to ask the provider if there are requirements to qualify for the service.

What can I afford?

Fees vary depending on a number of factors like destination and whether you need assistance getting in and out of the vehicle. Be sure to ask the provider:

• What’s the cost?
• Will insurance pay for rides?
• Is there a membership fee?

Do I need any accommodations?

Consider whether you need assistance getting on or off the vehicle, have a large motorized wheelchair, or are going to an appointment that requires you have a ride or driver to accompany you. Some specialized accommodations include:

• Curb-to-curb. You’re picked up at the curb or driveway
• Door-to-door. You get assistance with entering and exiting the vehicle and may get help to the door.
• Door-through-door. You’re helped from the vehicle through the door of your residence or destination.

When booking your transportation, you’ll need to provide:

• Whether you need an accessible vehicle that can accommodate a wheelchair, scooter, or other mobility device.
• Whether you need assistance getting in and out of the vehicle or walking to the door.

You might also ask the provider:

• Is assistance available to help you travel?
• Is an aide or assistant available to stay with you during the appointment?
• Can a personal care attendant or family member ride with you?

Thanks to a grant from the DC Office on Aging, Iona has two new Fact Sheets that outline available transportation services in DC for both independent riders and individuals who need assistance (as of June 2018).

Download, save, or print them here:

• Transportation for Riders Needing Assistance (download)
• Transportation for Independent Riders (download)

For additional fact sheets on critical topics like memory loss, legal services, and more, visit our Resource Library.