Paratransit Eligibility

Metro paratransit service is available to individuals who cannot use Metro’s fixed-route service due to a disability. 

Riders that are not able to make their way to a stop or are unable to ride a fixed-route bus may be eligible for this service.

Those with physical, sensory, and/or intellectual disabilities are good examples of individuals that can be eligible for paratransit.

Functional abilities are used to determine eligibility. Determinations are not based on symptoms, type of disability, use of a mobility aid, age, income, ability to drive, or access to a private automobile. 

In-Person Assessments

A written application and an in-person assessment are required to use our service. 

In-person assessments are conducted at Madison Water Utility located at 119 E Olin Ave. Conference Room C

Directions : From the public entrance, Conference room C is located immediately to your right, followed by another right. Room C is a smaller conference room right next to the large A and B conference room. Disabled parking is available in the front of the building.  

Functional abilities that are evaluated in this process include:

• applicant’s gait and balance
• bus route and landmark identification
• short term memory and attention span
• other functions necessary for riding a bus. 

In some instances, Metro may also contact your health care or social service professional for more information.

To apply for eligibility, candidates must complete the application form. If you would like to receive an application through the mail, please call (608) 266-4466.

Print Application

Completed applications can be sent to:

After applications are received by Metro staff:

• Metro may contact you for more information or to schedule an in-person assessment.
• A letter with an eligibility decision will be mailed within 21 days after completing the application process.
• You may file an appeal if you disagree with the decision. Information about the appeal process is included with your eligibility determination letter.

Are you a visiting Madison? Learn more about visitor eligibility.

Types of Eligibility

If someone is determined to be unable to use Metro’s fixed-route city bus service under all circumstances, their eligibility is considered 'unconditional.'

It may be possible for someone eligible for paratransit to also use Metro’s fixed-route city bus service for some trips. In these instances, a 'conditional' eligibility applies. Those with 'conditional' eligibility may only use paratransit when specific conditions exist, such as the presence of ice or snow.

'Temporary' eligibility could also apply for riders who have either unconditional or conditional eligibility status, but only for a limited term.

Eligibility Appeals

If you do not agree with the eligibility determination, you may file a written appeal within 60 days after the issuance of the determination letter. Individuals not involved in the original determination will review the appeal. If you'd like to file an appeal, please review the instructions provided in your eligibility determination letter.

Eligibility Recertification & Renewal

Metro will provide instructions on the recertification process for long-term users as their expiration date approaches. Recertification for all riders occurs on a three-year cycle. This process allows Metro to update records and consider circumstances that may have changed over time.

Riders with temporary eligibility should reapply for eligibility before the noted expiration date on their ID card in order to continue using paratransit services. However, any person, including someone already eligible, can file a new application at any time if they believe their eligibility status has changed.