Transportation help for people with disabilities
If you have a disability and need to get somewhere in Boston, there are resources that you can turn to.
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Still have questions? Contact:
Disabilities Commission
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1 City Hall Square
Room 967Boston, MA 02201-2041
Wheelchair accessible taxi cabs
Accessible taxi cabs in Boston are known as WAVs. This stands for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles. WAVs are part of the City’s general taxi fleet.
You don’t have to fill out any applications or schedule your trips in advance to use WAVs. There are 100 WAVs in Boston licensed by the Boston Police Hackney Unit. Each WAV has a Taxi Medallion License plate with a number on the back of its vehicle.
Taxi discount coupon program
The program, which makes transportation more affordable for people with disabilities, was created by:
- the Disabilities Commission
- the Elderly Commission, and
- the Boston Police Department’s Hackney Unit.
Boston residents who have a disability or are over the age of 65 are eligible for this program. You can buy coupon books worth $10 for $5 a book (a 50 percent discount). Learn more about how to buy taxi coupons.
Public transit
Looking for information about the MBTA? This public transit guide details routes and accessibility options for buses, subways, and the commuter rail. It will help you understand how to use the MBTA public transit system and its resources.
The MBTA offers discounts for seniors and residents with disabilities on buses, subways, and the commuter rail. Learn more about the MBTA’s program.
If your disability prevents you from using the standard public transit system, you can apply for the MBTA’s paratransit program. It’s called The Ride. Visitors from out of town may also be eligible to use this service during their visit. Get information about The Ride.
Accessible parking spots
The Disabilities Commission and the Transportation Department offer a Residential Accessible Parking Space Program for residents with disabilities. If eligible, you can request an accessible parking space outside your home. Learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Transportation Network Companies / Rideshares
Providers
Two of the largest rideshare providers offer wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) in Boston. WAV rides cost the same as each company's basic fare. A WAV can be requested on-demand as an option in the app for each company.
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Still have questions? Contact:
Disabilities Commission
-
1 City Hall Square
Room 967Boston, MA 02201-2041
