How to Apply for The RIDE | The RIDE

The RIDE Eligibility Center (TREC) is closed as of March 23, 2020.

All interaction with TREC, including ADA Visitor Requests, will be conducted during business hours over the phone (617-337-2727) or email (trec@paratransit.org).

Temporary changes due to COVID

If you are a new or recertifying RIDE customer, you will be interviewed over the phone. TREC will contact your listed healthcare provider after the interview to verify your disability as needed.
If you are a new RIDE customer with a recent or unexpected medical situation, you may be granted temporary eligibility if you meet the medical necessity criteria provided to your licensed healthcare provider by TREC.
If you are a current RIDE customer who requires recertification soon, you will receive a reminder postcard to contact TREC. If you are not sure when your current eligibility expires, please call TREC.
In-person functional assessments are not currently being conducted. If one is required, you can use The RIDE with “presumptive” eligibility until you can complete your application and receive your ADA eligibility determination.

These changes support social distancing for customers and employees. We will reevaluate as the situation evolves.

How to Apply

Contact The RIDE Eligibility Center (TREC) at 617-337-2727, or email us at trec@paratransit.org to schedule your eligibility phone interview.
TREC will contact your listed healthcare provider after the interview to verify your disability as needed.
Most applicants hear back within 2 to 3 business days. If your application needs follow-up, it may take longer.

If your eligibility decision is not made within 21 days of completing the application process, you will be able to use THE RIDE until a decision is made. You can contact the Eligibility Center with any questions.

If you disagree with the decision you receive, you can appeal. Instructions on how to appeal are included in your decision letter.

Who’s eligible?

People who have a disability (temporary or permanent) that prevents them from using traditional public transit.
If you’ve had a medical emergency, your licensed healthcare provider can request thirty days of The RIDE for you that starts immediately.
Out-of-town visitors with disabilities may also be eligible to use The RIDE.

After You're Approved

Once you’re approved, you can start scheduling trips as soon as you've added funds to your RIDE account. Read what to expect on The RIDE for more information.

Upon request, the RIDE Eligibility Center (TREC) can provide proof of your MBTA ADA Paratransit Eligibility. You can use it to take paratransit services when you travel outside the Boston area.

RIDE customers have to recertify their ADA status occasionally. You’ll get a reminder in the mail before your eligibility is set to expire.

Other RIDE Programs

A rider uses an app that provides audio-equivalency for digital signs as part of a technology we’re developing for blind and low-vision riders

The MBTA is running on-demand paratransit pilots with Uber, Lyft, and Curb Mobility (taxi), where RIDE customers can book subsidized rides instantly, right from their smartphones.

Ridesharing Paratransit Pilot Program

Learn about the MBTA's RIDE on-demand pilot program, a partnership with ridesharing companies Uber and Lyft.

Provider Options Pilot

Learn about the MBTA’s Provider Options Pilot, which gives RIDE customers the opportunity to have their regularly scheduled trips served by Lyft or Curb.

Additional Resources

Contact Us

The RIDE Eligibility Center
1000 Massachusetts Avenue
2nd Floor
Boston, MA 02118

Phone: 617-337-2727
Email: trec@paratransit.org

The RIDE Guide

Download a PDF version of the important information that explains how to get started with The RIDE.

Download The RIDE Guide