Accessibility at Metro

Metro is committed to providing a positive riding experience for everyone. That includes making our services fully accessible.

Using Metro Rail and Bus

All of our services are accessible to everyone.

Metro Rail

All Metro Rail stations and rail cars are accessible. Our stations feature accessible priority parking near station entrances, information on station pylons in Braille and raised alphabet, and extra-wide faregates, among other features. All stations have elevators and directional signs indicating elevator locations.

Rail cars feature gap reducers between the car and the platform, barriers between cars, priority seating for people with disabilities and senior citizens, and emergency intercoms accessible to wheelchair users that also include instructions in Braille and raised alphabet.

Learn more about Metro Rail accessibility features

Metro Bus

All buses in the Metro fleet are accessible, with the ability to kneel or lower; all have either low floor ramps or lifts. Major stops, landmarks, and intersections are either announced by an automated stop announcement system or the bus operator. All buses feature two wheelchair securement areas and priority seating for senior citizens and people with disabilities near the front of the bus.

At bus stops

Each bus stop has its own bus stop page you can visit before your trip, where you can learn about the accessibility features at the stop, such as crosswalks and curb ramps. From the bus stop page, you can view a Google Street View image showing the area around the stop.

Learn more about the accessibility features of Metro Bus

Metro Access

MetroAccess is a shared-ride, door-to-door, paratransit service for people who cannot independently use the accessible bus and/or rail system due to a disability.

Learn more about Metro Access

Riding for a reduced fare

Some riders are eligible for a Reduced Fare Smart Trip Photo ID, which allows you to ride Metro Rail and Metro Bus for 50% of the regular fare. These include:

• Riders with a qualifying disability
• Riders under the age of 65 who are on Medicaid

You may be eligible for the Reduced Fare program even if your disability doesn’t qualify you for Metro Access.

If you’re 65 or older, get a Senior Smart Trip card instead. It also allows you to ride for 50% of the regular fare, and it’s easier to get than a Reduced Fare Smart Trip Photo ID.

Learn more about our Reduced Fare Programs

Transit Accessibility Center

Metro’s Transit Accessibility Center (TAC), at Metro headquarters near L’Enfant Plaza, is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closing Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m.) to answer your questions about Metro accessibility and help you find the services you need.

At the Transit Accessibility Center, you can get a Reduced Fare Smart Trip Photo ID Card or a MetroAccess ID, get information and training on how to use the accessibility features of Metro, and more. Call 202-962-2700 or visit us in person.

Other help for customers with disabilities

To help you, Metro offers orientation sessions and travel training workshops, a Speakers Bureau, and a comprehensive travel guide for riders with disabilities and senior citizens. To learn more or schedule an orientation session, call Metro’s accessibility team at 202-962-1100 (TTY: 202-962-2033).

See other resources for customers with disabilities

Website Accessibility Statement

Metro’s commitment to accessibility for all begins with this website. 

Read Metro's full website accessibility statement