Registering for Metro Access

To be able to use Metro Access, you need to meet the eligibility criteria, complete an application and interview, and receive a Metro Access ID. Once you receive your Metro Access ID, you can begin booking rides right away. You can use Metro Access as often as you want, to go anywhere along or near Metro Rail lines and Metro Bus routes.

Who is eligible for Metro Access

To be eligible for Metro Access, you must meet one of these conditions:

  • Have a disability as defined by the ADA, and be unable to utilize the Metro Bus and Metro Rail system some or all of the time as a result of their disability.

OR

  • Need to use a ramp or wheelchair lift to board or exit a public transit vehicle, but an accessible public transit vehicle is not being used at the time, date, and on the route you would travel. (All Metro Buses are wheelchair accessible.)

OR

  • Be unable to travel to or from a bus stop or rail station due to a disability, or an accessible pathway to a bus stop or rail station is not available.

Apply for Metro Access

If you think you are eligible for Metro Access, you can get a Metro Access ID by following these steps:

  1. Download the Metro Access application, or have a copy sent to you.
  2. Fill out the application, and have your healthcare provider fill out the portion that certifies your disability.
  3. Make an appointment for your interview and assessment at the Metro Transit Accessibility Center (TAC).
  4. Bring your completed application to the interview.

To ask Metro to send you a copy of the application in the mail, or to ask for accommodations (such as large print or translations) to help you complete the application, contact the TAC:

Read the entire application so that you understand it. Complete Part A, which is information about you. Then give Part B to your healthcare provider to complete. Part B asks them for information about your disability and how it prevents you from using Metro’s accessible services.

About your interview and assessment

When you’ve completed the application, don’t mail or fax it back to Metro. Instead, schedule an appointment for your interview and assessment at the Transit Accessibility Center (TAC). To schedule your appointment, call 202-962-2700 and select option 1 (TTY: 202-962-2033). If you need it, Metro will provide free transportation to your interview from any location within the core service area.  Learn how to get to the TAC

On the day of your interview, bring your completed and signed application, as well as any mobility aids you use. At the interview, a Metro specialist will evaluate your independent travel skills and your ability to use accessible public transportation. They will also give you information about Metro’s Reduced Fare Program, which you may be eligible for even if you’re not eligible for Metro Access.

About a week after your appointment, Metro will notify you whether you have qualified for Metro Access. If you have, you will receive your Metro Access ID card. If you haven’t qualified for Metro Access but you do meet the eligibility criteria for the Reduced Fare Program for people with disabilities, you’ll be automatically enrolled and will receive your Reduced Fare Smart Trip Photo ID. You have the right to appeal if you’re found ineligible for Metro Access.

Renew your Metro Access ID

Your Metro Access ID card has an expiration date on the front. Periodically, you’ll have to renew your Metro Access ID. You’ll receive a reminder phone call between 60 and 30 days before your ID expires, and you should contact the TAC. You will have to come renew your ID card in person.

Metro Access for visitors

If you’re visiting the National Capital Region and are unable to use accessible public transportation services, you can apply for permission to use Metro Access for up to 21 days within a rolling 365-day period.

If you are currently registered for paratransit service in another city, you are automatically eligible for Metro Access. Ask your current paratransit provider to send verification to the Metro TAC, including your paratransit ID number and expiration date, and the following information:

  • Your full name, address, and phone number
  • The nature of your disability
  • The type of mobility aid you use, if you use one
  • Any information about your Personal Care Assistant (PCA) or service animal, if you have them

If you aren’t registered for paratransit service elsewhere, you’ll need a healthcare professional to provide a certification of your disability along with the additional information above. They can use the Metro Access application, or provide the information in a signed letter.  

We’ll send you an authorization letter and additional instructions by mail or email. To ensure adequate time to process your request, be sure to request visitor status at least 3 weeks before you visit.