Hello, I'm planning on visiting for a few weeks in the summer and was wondering if I could use the paratransit system there. I know my city allows visitors to use it if they get the proper credentials, can it be done in New York?

Hi Bliss,

Yes, you should be able to use our paratransit system (Access-a-Ride). Here's how to get signed up for your visit:
MTA New York City Transit welcomes the opportunity to provide AAR paratransit service to eligible visitors to New York City. Visitors who need to use AAR must send NYC Transit a copy of their paratransit ID card (front and back) or other equivalent paratransit eligibility documentation issued by the city or town in which you reside. If you don’t have these documents, you must submit proof of residency outside New York City and proof of disability. A legible, dated, and signed letter from a doctor or rehabilitation professional indicating an individual’s disability is acceptable proof. In addition, we need the following information:

1. Name, birth date, home address, telephone, cell phone and business telephone.
2. Your address and telephone number in New York City (include cross streets).
3. Emergency contact (name and telephone) in New York City.
4. Will you travel with a personal care attendant (PCA), a guest, or both?
5. Do you use a service animal?
6. Do you use a cane, walker, crutches, wheelchair, scooter or other equipment? Note: AAR vehicles cannot accommodate wheelchairs or scooters wider than 33.5 inches, longer than 51 inches and weighing more than 800 lbs. when occupied.
7. Special instructions: For example, a blind customer wants the driver to call out the customer’s name when the vehicle arrives.
8. Do you need information in large print, Braille or on audio tape?


You can read up on Access-a-Ride policies and procedures at http://www.mta.info/nyct/paratran/guide.htm
Where will you be staying? You may have other transportation options available too. :)