Transportation
Getting to and from places like your job, the doctor, and stores is key to living independently. There may be times in your life when getting around is hard. Driving programs and transportation services can help when you:
- think your driving may no longer be safe
- have had an illness or injury that keeps you from driving
- have a disability and cannot drive yourself
What programs and services are available?
Emergency Transportation:
If you have a medical emergency and need to go to the hospital, call 9-1-1
Non-Emergency Transportation services vary in each community.
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If you have Medicaid, you may be eligible for Non-Emergency Medicaid Transportation. This service will take you to medical and health care appointments. It can also take you to other services listed in your service plan like supported employment and day programs.
A company called LogistiCare arranges all Medicaid-funded rides. They have a Call Center you can call 24 hours a day, seven days week. Rides are given 24 hours a day, seven days week. Call LogistiCare toll-free at 1-866-386-8331. When you call, be ready with:
- your Medicaid number
- date and time
- pick-up and drop-off location
LogistiCare also manages a Volunteer Driver Program and a Gas Reimbursement Program. It will pay a qualified driver for mileage when the driver uses their own vehicle to give you a ride.
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Public Transportation is available in many areas. Rides are scheduled at assigned pick-up and drop-off stops.
To learn about your rights and the Americans with Disabilities Act, visit the Legal Rights page.
For a list of public transit in your area, see the map at the Department of Rail and Public Transportation website.
For ADA accessible rides, ask about "paratransit".
For a list of public transportation in your area, see the map at the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation website.
- Travel Training
If you have a disability and want to use public transportation, travel training is available. Call your local Center for Independent Living for information. (VN)
Easter Seals Project Action has Frequently Asked Questions about travel training and can give you information in print and audio CD training materials.
Route to Freedom Teaches students in grades 8 – 12.
- Orientation and Mobility programs assist people who are blind or have vision impairments learn how to use public transportation. Visit the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired website to learn more.
- Some of your local agencies may give rides, too. Area Agencies on Aging, Community Services Boards, and Centers for Independent Living may give rides to day programs, supported employment, and other places. Availability and eligibility varies.
Many places also have private agencies that give rides. Prices will vary. A list of alternative transportation called GrandTrans is on the Virginia Grand Driver website.
If you are a senior, and are concerned about your ability to keep driving, you can take a driving self-assessment. You can take one in the privacy of your own home. Tools like these can help you to decide if something, like a medical condition, may be affecting your driving. Getting professional or medical advice can be a good next step in deciding whether to keep driving.
The Virginia Grand Driver program has driving tips to help you to drive safely, reduce stress, and remain independent. “Car Fit” can also help you have a better “fit” with your vehicle. As you age, your body changes. Your range of abilities, your vision, and reaction time change too. CarFit teaches you how to adjust your car to make up for these changes. Visit the Virginia Grand Driver website to find a Car Fit event nearest you
The AARP Website gives information to help drivers refresh their skills.
If you have a disability, you might find the Adaptive Driving Program (ADP) helpful. The program evaluates driving, helps drivers improve auto control, and trains drivers in the use of devices. Drivers also learn how to change their vehicles for wheelchairs and tie-downs. For more information, visit the Virginia Grand Driver website and click on “Resources”.
Vehicle Modifications
If you need a vehicle to get to work, you may be able to get assistance with Vehicle Modification through the Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services (DRS). Contact your local DRS toll-free at 1-800-552-5019 or visit the DRS website.
If you are using Medicaid Waiver services, you may be eligible for Medicaid-reimbursement to change your main vehicle. Learn about Environmental Modifications from your case manager or support person for your Waiver.
The Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center (WWRC) may be helpful. The WWRC Driving Program can tell you about the types of autos that best match your special driving needs and the rest of your mobility equipment (for example, if you use a wheelchair or scooter).
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association sets standards for vendors who modify vehicles. Visit their web site to find a qualified vendor near you or to search through their publications related to driving with a disability.
Vehicle Purchase
Loans: If you are interested in a loan to buy a van or car and make necessary changes, contact the New Well Fund. This Fund used to be called the Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority. These loans cover autos that are modified to accommodate a specific disability (for example, wheelchair lifts and hand controls), and are secured by the vehicle. Financing for up to 100% of the vehicle may be available.
Dealers: There are private Auto Dealers and Specialized Auto Dealers that sell new and used vehicles that are modified for a variety of riders or passengers with disabilities. Visit one of these websites:
- Virginia Assistive Technology System Equipment Exchange
- Your local Center for Independent Living
- Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center
Handicapped Parking Permits
“Disabled parking permits” can be temporary or permanent. To learn more, visit the Division of Motor Vehicles website.
Where can I find out more?
To find a ride in your area, visit VirginiaNavigator, choose: Transportation and put in your ZIP code.
