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The Application Access Ride form is a crucial document for individuals seeking access to MTA New York City Transit’s paratransit service, known as Access-A-Ride. This service is designed for those who cannot use public transit due to physical or mental disabilities. The form serves multiple purposes, including new applications and recertifications, and requires the applicant to provide personal information, including their name, address, and contact details. A photograph taken within the last three years is also necessary for the identification card. It is important to complete the form accurately, as any incomplete submissions may result in the need to reschedule evaluations. The application process involves attending an in-person evaluation at a designated center, where further documentation may be requested to verify eligibility. The form also emphasizes the confidentiality of the information provided, which is used solely to determine eligibility and any special assistance needed. Applicants must understand that their Access-A-Ride card will expire five years from the date of issuance, and they must notify the transit authority if their need for paratransit services changes. Clear instructions are provided for those who may need assistance completing the form, ensuring that the process is accessible to everyone.

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MN

ACCESS-A-RIDE SERVICE APPLICATION

New Application

Recertification: ID Number ____________________________

MTA New York City Transit’s paratransit service, Access-A-Ride, provides door-to-door transportation within New York City on an advance reservation basis to persons who, because of a physical or mental disability, are unable to use public transit buses or subways.

INSTRUCTIONS

You must complete this application and bring it with you to the scheduled evaluation at the offices of the professional certifier selected by NYC Transit listed in the cover letter. Please give the completed application and any supporting documents to the professional certifier.

If a question does not apply to you, clearly mark N/A in the space provided. If you have any questions while completing this application, please call 877-337-2017 and when the recorded message begins press “1” for English and “1” for Eligibility. If you are unable to complete the form yourself, it can be completed by someone you choose to assist you. It may take up to 3 weeks to process your application.

One (1) photograph taken within the last three years must be submitted with this application for use on your identification card. Please see the box below for required size. The photograph must have a solid background and show a full view of your face. Please write your name on the back of the photograph. If you do not bring

the photograph with you to the evaluation center, the application process cannot be completed.

All of the information you provide will be used solely for the purpose of determining your eligibility, and any special assistance you may need when using paratransit. The information that you furnish will be kept strictly confidential.

Once issued, an Access-A-Ride paratransit service card expires five (5) years from the date it was issued, unless otherwise indicated.

Do you need information in an alternate format?

Check one: Large Print

Audio Tape

Braille

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

E-mail _________________________________

 

2"

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your evaluation will not take place if you arrive at the evaluation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

center with an incomplete application. You will have to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

reschedule your evaluation and you may not be provided with

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 1/2"

 

 

transportation for the rescheduled evaluation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For External Certifier’s Use

Initials _________________________

Date ____________________________

For NYCT Office Use

Application #: ______________________

Date Entered: ______________________

By: ______________________________

1

AGREEMENT TO ELIGIBILITY TERMS AND CONDITIONS (ALL APPLICANTS MUST SIGN THIS AGREEMENT)

I understand that as a part of the application process I must attend an in-person evaluation at the offices of a professional certifier selected by NYC Transit.

I understand that MTA NYC Transit reserves the right to request additional proof of my disability or my inability to use public buses and subways.

I understand that my application will not be accepted at the evaluation center if it is not complete.

I affirm that all of the information that I provide on this application is true to the best of my knowledge. I understand that my application is subject to review and verification, including verification after my Access-A-Ride card has been issued, and that misrepresentation of any material information will lead to termination of my eligibility.

I agree to notify NYC Transit at 877-337-2017 if I no longer need paratransit service for any reason, including a change in my ability to use bus and subway service. I also understand that my failure to cooperate with a request for additional information to verify statements made on my application after my Access-A-Ride card has been issued will be grounds for suspension or termination of my eligibility for paratransit service. I further understand that my failure to adhere to the policies and procedures for using Access-A-Ride are also grounds for suspension or termination of my eligibility for paratransit service.

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

Applicant’s Signature

Date

If someone other than the applicant has completed this application, please provide the following information:

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

Name

Relationship to Applicant

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

Telephone Number

Date

2

REQUIRED IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION (PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY)

____________________________________ ____________________________________

___________

Last Name

First Name

 

 

M.I.

________________________________________________________

______________________________

Street Address

 

 

Apt. No.

 

_______________________________________________

_______

_______________________________

City/Borough

 

State

Zip Code

 

________________________________________________ and ____________________________________________

Cross Streets

___________-_____________-_____________________

__________-_____________-______________________

Home Telephone Number

 

Work Telephone Number

______________________________________________

__________-_____________-______________________

E-mail Address

 

Cell Phone Number

_________-__________-__________

Sex: ______

______

Date of Birth

Male

Female

If your mailing address is different from your home address, please complete the following:

(Otherwise leave blank)

____________________________________________________________

_____________________________

P.O. Box or Street Address

 

Apt. No.

 

______________________________________________________

________________

__________________

City/Borough

State

 

Zip Code

Person to Contact in Case of Emergency: (This section must be completed.)

____________________________

____________________________ _______

Last Name

First Name

M.I.

_____________-____________-__________

_____________-____________-__________

Home Telephone Number

 

Work Telephone Number

Relationship to Applicant: _______________________________________

3

APPLICATION FORM

1.How do you currently travel? (Check all that apply)

Public Transit Bus Subway School Bus Walking Automobile

Access-A-Ride Commuter Railroad

Ambulette

Taxi/Car Service

Other: ____________________________________________

2.Are you registered with the MTA Reduced-Fare program?

Yes

No

3.Do you have a MetroCard? (Check all that apply)

Yes, I use my MetroCard when traveling by bus

Yes, I use my MetroCard when traveling by subway

No, I don’t have a MetroCard

4.Is your disability:

Permanent Temporary I don’t know

5.If temporary, please indicate how long you believe the temporary disability will continue.

2 months 3 months 6 months

Other (Specify): ___________________________________

6.Indicate which support device(s) you use when traveling or walking outside your home.

I do not require a support device

Respirator/Oxygen Tank

Walker

Braces

Support Cane

Scooter*

Crutches

Prosthesis

Service Animal (an animal that provides assistance)

Manual Wheelchair*

Motorized Wheelchair*

Other (Specify) ______________________________________________

*Access-A-Ride vehicles can only accommodate a wheelchair or scooter that is less than 33.5 inches in width and 51 inches in length and does not weigh more than 800 pounds when occupied.

7.If you have a service animal, indicate the tasks(s) your service animal performs for you.

Guides me (vision impairment)

Alerts me (hearing impairment)

Pulls me (manual wheelchair)

Carries items for me

Other (Specify): _____________________________

8.Have you received training to use public transit buses or subways?

Yes

No No, I would like training

I am in the training process

4

9.Would you be able to travel by bus or subway if Access-A-Ride took you from: (Check all that apply)

your home to a bus stop

the bus stop to your home

your destination back to the bus stop

your home to an accessible subway station

the accessible subway station to your home

your destination back to the accessible subway station

Not applicable

10.a. How far from your home is the nearest public transit bus stop?

Less than 1 block 1 to 2 blocks 3 to 4 blocks 5 or more blocks

Identify location of public transit bus stop:

___________________________________________________________________________

b. How long does it take you to walk to the nearest public transit bus stop?

Less than 5 minutes

5-10 minutes

More than 10 minutes

Not sure

11.On your own or using a support device, are you able to get to and from the public transit bus stop nearest your home?

Yes

No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances:

___________________________________________________________________________

12.On your own or using a support device, can you get on, ride, and get off a public transit bus when the “kneeler” is lowered (a kneeler is a device that lowers the front of the bus)?

Yes

No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances: _______________________________________________________________________________

13.How often do you travel on public transit buses?

Daily Weekly Monthly

Occasionally Never

If you have used a public transit bus in the past, when did you stop?

____________ (Mo./Yr.)

Why did you stop traveling by public transit bus?

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

14.If you cannot walk up the steps on a bus or use the kneeler, are you able to use the bus lift? (Please note that persons who cannot climb the bus steps have the right to enter the bus by standing on the lift.)

Yes No

Sometimes Don’t Know

5

15.Are you able to identify and understand the destination and route number signs on public transit buses?

Yes

No

Only when the bus operator announces them

Sometimes—describe the circumstances: _______________________________________________________________

16.Are you able to determine when you have reached your destination to get off the public transit bus?

Yes No

Only when the bus operator announces the stop

Sometimes—describe the circumstances:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

17.a. How far from your home is the nearest subway station?

Less than 1 block 1 to 2 blocks

3 to 4 blocks 5 or more blocks

Identify location of subway station:

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

b. How long does it take you to walk to the nearest subway station?

Less than 5 minutes

5-10 minutes

More than 10 minutes

Not sure

18.On your own or using a support device, are you able to get to and from the subway station nearest your home?

Yes

No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances:

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

19.On your own or using a support device, can you ride on an escalator?

Yes No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances: _________________________________________________________________

20.On your own or using a support device, are you able to go to and from the station platform and the street entrance?

Yes

No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances: _____________________________________________

Only if equipped with an elevator

21.On your own or using a support device, how far can you travel on a level street? Please answer in city blocks.

Less than 1 block

1 to 2 blocks

3 to 4 blocks

5 or more blocks

22.On your own or using a support device, can you get on, ride and get off a subway train?

Yes No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances: ________________________________________

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23.Are you able to determine surfaces (platform, top or bottom of stairs) in a subway station?

Yes No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances: ______________________________________________________

24.Are you able to identify and understand the destination and subway line signs?

Yes No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances:

_______________________________________________________

25.Are you able to determine when you have reached your destination to get off the subway?

Yes No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances:

______________________________________________________

Only when the conductor announces the stop

26.How often do you travel using the subway?

Daily Weekly Monthly Occasionally

Not at All

If you have used the subway in the past, when did you stop using it?

___________(Mo./Yr.)

Why did you stop traveling by subway?

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

27.a. Do you currently travel with a Personal Care Attendant (PCA), a person such as a home attendant who assists you regularly when you travel outside your home?

Yes

No

Sometimes—describe the circumstances:

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

I don’t have a Personal Care Attendant

b.If you do need the assistance of a PCA to travel, what kind of traveling assistance does the PCA provide and what specifically does the PCA do for you when he/she travels with you?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7

28.If you are unable to take some or all of your trips by public transit bus or subway, check off the reasons below. (Check all that apply)

Not applicable

I feel unsafe traveling by public transit bus

I do not like traveling by city buses

Distance to public transit bus is too long

I do not like traveling by subway

I feel unsafe traveling by subway

Distance to subway is too long

Subway station has no elevators

No curb cuts

No paved sidewalks

Inclement weather

Extreme cold

Hilly streets

Extreme heat

I cannot travel to an unfamiliar place

(The application continues on Page 9).

8

29.a. From the following list, please check off all disabilities or conditions that prevent you from boarding, riding or disembarking from public transit buses or subways.

Cardiovascular/Pulmonary

 

Neuromuscular

 

 

Angina

 

 

___

ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease

 

___

Arteriosclerosis/Atherosclerosis

___

Cerebral Palsy

 

___

Asthma

 

 

___

Charcot-Marie Tooth Syndrome

___

Bypass Surgery:

Date: _________________

Equilibrium

 

___

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

___

Fibromyalgia

 

___

Congestive Heart Failure

 

___

Hemiplegia/Hemiparesis

 

___

Cystic Fibrosis

 

 

___

Multiple Sclerosis

 

___

Emphysema

 

 

___

Muscular Dystrophy

 

___

Heart Attack:

Date: _________________

Neuropathy

 

___

HTN/Hypertension

 

 

___

Paraplegia

 

___

Peripheral Vascular Disease

___

Parkinson’s Disease

 

___

Phlebitis

 

 

___

Polio

 

___

Thrombosis

 

 

___

Quadriplegia

 

___

Other: ___________________________________

Sciatica

 

___

 

 

 

 

Spina Bifida

 

___

General Medical

 

 

 

Stroke/Cerebral Trauma:

Date: ___________

AIDS

 

 

___

TIA’s (Transient Ischemic Attack)

___

Atrophy

 

 

___

Other: ___________________________________________

Chemotherapy Treatment dates: _______________

 

 

 

_________________________________________

Orthopedic

 

 

Diabetes

 

 

___

Amputation: specify extremity (ies) __________

Edema

 

 

___

_________________________________________________

Epilepsy

 

 

___

Broken/Fracture: __________ Date: ___________

HIV

 

 

___

Degenerative Joint Disease

 

___

Lupus

 

 

___

Gout

 

___

Rheumatoid Arthritis

 

 

___

Hip Replacement

 

___

Kidney Dialysis

 

 

___

Knee Replacement

 

___

Radiation Treatment dates: ___________________

Osteoarthritis

 

___

________________________________________

Osteoporosis

 

___

Other: __________________________________

Scoliosis

 

___

 

 

 

 

Spondylitis

 

___

Vision [Specify eye (s)]

One Eye

Both Eyes

Other: __________________________________

Cataracts

 

___

___

 

 

 

Cortical Blindness

 

___

___

Cognitive/Psychological

 

Glaucoma (all types)

 

___

___

Alzheimer’s Disease

 

___

Macular Degeneration

___

___

ADD/Attention Deficit Disorder

___

Retinal Detachment

 

___

___

Autism

 

___

Legally Blind

 

___

___

Dementia

 

___

Totally Blind

 

___

___

Head Trauma

 

___

Other: ________________________________

Mental Retardation

 

___

 

 

 

 

Panic Disorder

 

___

 

 

 

 

Schizophrenia

 

___

 

 

 

 

Other: __________________________________

9

Toll free from area codes 212, 646, 718, 347, 516, 631, 914, 845
(Press “1” for English and “1” for Eligibility when the recorded message begins.) From all other area codes

b. For each disability or condition checked on previous page, please describe how it prevents you from boarding, riding or disembarking from public transit buses or subways. You may also include medical documentation to support your disability.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

c. Bring a copy of medical documentation that verifies your transportation related disability to the in-person assessment.

CHECK HERE IF YOU ARE NOT BRINGING MEDICAL DOCUMENTATION TO THE IN-PERSON ASSESSMENT.

30.From your residence, what are the addresses of your three (3) most frequent destinations?

 

 

 

 

 

How Often Do You Travel

 

 

 

 

 

To This Location (Specify)?

Destination Address

 

Cross Streets

Borough

Daily

Wkly

Mthly

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you have any questions, please contact Access-A-Ride Customer Information between 9 AM and 5 PM, Monday through Friday.

877-337-2017

718-393-4999

Customers who are deaf call through the relay.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT YOU MUST:

Submit one (1) photograph measuring 2" x 11/2" that has been taken within the last three (3) years.

Complete and sign the Agreement section.

Complete the application answering every question, and bring it with you when you go to the evaluation center.

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134_10__14pt_MA

Form Specifications

Fact Name Description
Eligibility Requirements The Access-A-Ride application is designed for individuals with physical or mental disabilities who cannot use public transit. Applicants must attend an in-person evaluation to determine their eligibility.
Confidentiality Assurance All information provided in the application is kept strictly confidential. It is used solely for assessing eligibility and any special assistance needed.
Processing Time After submitting the application, it may take up to three weeks to process. Applicants must ensure their application is complete to avoid delays.
Expiration of Service Card Once issued, the Access-A-Ride paratransit service card is valid for five years. It is important to renew it before the expiration date to continue receiving services.

Application Access Ride: Usage Guidelines

Completing the Application Access Ride form is a crucial step in securing transportation services tailored to your needs. After you fill out the form, you will need to bring it to your scheduled evaluation with a professional certifier. Make sure to provide any required documents and a recent photograph, as these are essential for the processing of your application.

  1. Begin by indicating whether this is a New Application or Recertification. If it is a recertification, write your ID number in the space provided.
  2. Fill in your required identification information clearly. This includes your last name, first name, middle initial, address, city, state, zip code, and contact numbers.
  3. Specify your preferred format for receiving information, if applicable, by checking one of the options: Large Print, Audio Tape, Braille, or E-mail.
  4. Sign the Agreement to Eligibility Terms and Conditions section, affirming that you understand the requirements and agree to comply with them.
  5. Complete the Application Form by answering all questions regarding your travel habits, disability status, and ability to use public transit. Make sure to check all that apply.
  6. If you have a service animal, indicate the tasks it performs for you in the appropriate section.
  7. Provide information about your ability to travel to and from public transit bus stops, including distance and time taken to walk.
  8. Answer questions about your experience with public transit, including how often you travel and any challenges you face.
  9. Attach a recent photograph of yourself that meets the specified requirements. Ensure your name is written on the back of the photo.
  10. Review the completed application for accuracy and completeness. Make sure all necessary sections are filled out, and mark any non-applicable questions with "N/A."

Once the form is filled out, gather any additional documents you may need, and prepare to present everything at your evaluation appointment. Keep in mind that an incomplete application may lead to delays in processing your request for transportation services.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the Application Access Ride form used for?

The Application Access Ride form is used to apply for the MTA New York City Transit’s Access-A-Ride service. This service provides door-to-door transportation for individuals who cannot use public transit due to a physical or mental disability. By completing this form, you are taking the first step toward accessing this important transportation option within New York City.

How long does it take to process the application?

Once you submit your completed application, it may take up to three weeks for processing. During this time, the information you provided will be reviewed to determine your eligibility for Access-A-Ride services. It's important to ensure that your application is complete to avoid delays.

What should I bring to the evaluation appointment?

When you attend your scheduled evaluation, you must bring your completed application along with any supporting documents. Additionally, you need to provide a recent photograph of yourself that meets specific requirements. This photo will be used for your identification card. If you arrive without the necessary items, your evaluation may need to be rescheduled.

What happens if my application is incomplete?

If your application is incomplete when you arrive at the evaluation center, the evaluation cannot take place. You will have to reschedule your appointment, and you may not receive transportation for this new date. To avoid this, double-check that all sections of the application are filled out and that you have all required documents before your visit.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many applicants fail to fill out all required sections of the form. Leaving blanks can lead to delays or even rejection of the application. It is crucial to provide complete answers for every question.

  2. Missing Signature: Some individuals forget to sign the application. Without a signature, the application cannot be processed. Ensure that the applicant signs the agreement to eligibility terms and conditions before submission.

  3. Not Including a Photograph: A recent photograph is mandatory for the application. Applicants often forget to attach this photograph, which can halt the process. Remember to include a photo taken within the last three years with a solid background.

  4. Failure to Mark N/A: If a question does not apply, some people leave it blank instead of marking it as N/A. This can create confusion during the evaluation process. Clearly indicate N/A for any questions that do not pertain to you.

Documents used along the form

The Application Access Ride form is an essential document for individuals seeking paratransit services in New York City. Along with this application, several other forms and documents may be required to ensure a smooth application process. Below is a list of these documents, each described briefly for clarity.

  • Eligibility Verification Form: This form is used to provide additional proof of disability or inability to use public transportation. It may require medical documentation or other relevant information.
  • Photo Identification: A government-issued ID is often required to verify the applicant's identity. This could include a driver's license, state ID, or passport.
  • Medical Certification: A document from a healthcare provider confirming the applicant's disability status. This certification helps support the application for paratransit services.
  • Emergency Contact Information Form: This form collects details about a person to contact in case of emergencies during transportation. It is crucial for ensuring safety and communication.
  • Service Animal Documentation: If the applicant uses a service animal, documentation may be needed to confirm the animal's training and the tasks it performs for the individual.
  • Consent for Release of Information: This document allows the paratransit service to obtain necessary information from healthcare providers or other relevant sources to support the application.
  • Recertification Application: For individuals whose Access-A-Ride service is expiring, this form is necessary to renew eligibility. It typically requires updated information and documentation.

Gathering these documents in advance can facilitate a more efficient application process. It is important to ensure that all forms are completed accurately and submitted on time to avoid delays in receiving paratransit services.

Similar forms

  • Disability Certification Form: This document is often required to verify an individual's disability status. Like the Application Access Ride form, it collects personal information and may necessitate an in-person evaluation to confirm eligibility for services.
  • Medical Release Form: Similar to the Application Access Ride form, this document allows healthcare providers to share medical information with relevant agencies. Both forms require signatures and may involve the submission of supporting documents to establish eligibility for assistance.
  • Transportation Needs Assessment: This form evaluates an individual's specific transportation requirements. It parallels the Application Access Ride form by gathering detailed information about mobility challenges and travel preferences, which helps determine suitable transportation options.
  • Paratransit Eligibility Application: This document serves a similar purpose by assessing an individual's qualifications for paratransit services. Both applications require personal information and may involve a review process to validate the applicant's claims regarding their ability to use public transit.
  • Service Animal Registration Form: This form is used to register service animals that assist individuals with disabilities. It shares similarities with the Application Access Ride form in that it requires detailed information about the individual and the specific tasks the service animal performs.
  • Reduced-Fare MetroCard Application: Like the Application Access Ride form, this application is designed to assess eligibility for discounted transit fares based on disability status. Both forms require personal information and may necessitate proof of disability to qualify for the program.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the Application Access Ride form, it is essential to approach the process with care and attention to detail. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do to ensure a smooth application experience.

  • Do ensure all sections of the application are filled out completely. Incomplete forms may lead to delays or the need to reschedule your evaluation.
  • Do provide a recent photograph. Remember to bring a photograph that meets the specified requirements, as the application cannot be processed without it.
  • Do mark any questions that do not apply to you as N/A. This helps clarify your responses and avoids confusion.
  • Do ask for help if needed. If you find it challenging to complete the form, seek assistance from someone you trust.
  • Don't forget to sign the application. Your signature is necessary to affirm that the information you provided is true.
  • Don't submit the application without reviewing it first. Take a moment to double-check for any errors or missing information.
  • Don't bring the application without the required identification documents. Ensure you have all necessary documents ready for the evaluation.
  • Don't hesitate to contact the support line for assistance. If you have questions while filling out the form, reach out for help.

Misconceptions

Misunderstandings about the Application Access Ride form can lead to confusion and delays in obtaining necessary transportation services. Here are some common misconceptions clarified:

  • Misconception 1: The form can be submitted without a photograph.
  • Many believe that a photograph is optional. In reality, a recent photograph is a required part of the application. Without it, the process cannot be completed.

  • Misconception 2: The application can be filled out at the evaluation center.
  • Some individuals think they can complete the application at the evaluation site. However, the form must be fully completed beforehand to avoid rescheduling.

  • Misconception 3: Anyone can complete the application for the applicant.
  • While it is true that someone may assist, the applicant must ensure that the information provided is accurate and truthful.

  • Misconception 4: The application process is instantaneous.
  • Many expect immediate results. However, processing can take up to three weeks, so it's important to apply well in advance of needing services.

  • Misconception 5: All disabilities qualify for Access-A-Ride.
  • Not all disabilities meet the eligibility criteria. The service is specifically for individuals who cannot use public transit due to their disability.

  • Misconception 6: Providing incomplete information won’t affect the application.
  • Some may think minor omissions are acceptable. Incomplete applications will lead to delays or even a requirement to reschedule the evaluation.

  • Misconception 7: The application is only about physical disabilities.
  • While physical disabilities are a focus, mental disabilities also qualify for Access-A-Ride services. It's essential to be honest about all limitations.

  • Misconception 8: The Access-A-Ride card lasts indefinitely.
  • Many assume that once they have the card, it is permanent. In fact, the card expires every five years and requires recertification.

  • Misconception 9: Providing personal information is unnecessary.
  • Some applicants may feel hesitant to share personal details. However, all information is crucial for determining eligibility and ensuring appropriate services.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways regarding the Application Access Ride form:

  • The Access-A-Ride service is designed for individuals unable to use public transit due to physical or mental disabilities.
  • Complete the application before attending the evaluation at the designated professional certifier's office.
  • If a question does not apply to you, indicate "N/A" in the space provided.
  • It is essential to submit a recent photograph with your application; without it, the process cannot proceed.
  • All information provided will be kept confidential and used only to determine eligibility and any special assistance needed.
  • Expect processing of your application to take up to three weeks.
  • Applications must be complete; arriving with an incomplete form will require rescheduling your evaluation.
  • Access-A-Ride cards expire five years after issuance, unless stated otherwise.
  • Notify NYC Transit promptly if you no longer require paratransit service for any reason.