Transport DC offers a vital transportation service for individuals registered with WMATA Metro Access, providing accessible taxicab rides throughout Washington, D.C. This guide will explain everything you need to know about using Transport DC, with a special focus on your essential Transport Number: your Metro Access ID.
Eligibility and Your Metro Access ID Number
To utilize Transport DC, eligibility is strictly tied to your Metro Access registration. You must be a registered Metro Access customer. If you are unsure about your Metro Access eligibility, please contact WMATA directly at (202) 962-1100 for clarification. A valid Metro Access ID is mandatory for using Transport DC services.
Your Metro Access ID number is your transport number for this service. It’s crucial to have an active Metro Access ID and to use this specific number when you contact the Transport DC Trip Request Line. Furthermore, be prepared to show your physical Metro Access ID card to the driver upon pick-up. Maintaining your Metro Access eligibility, including keeping your ID card active, is solely your responsibility as a customer. Without a valid transport number (Metro Access ID number), you cannot access Transport DC services.
Cost and Operational Details
The cost for using Transport DC is a flat rate of $7 per ride. This affordable fare makes transportation accessible throughout DC for eligible riders.
Transport DC operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing around-the-clock transportation options.
To book a ride, simply call 1 (844) 322-7732.
For users requiring Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV), Transport DC offers the option to reserve one-way trips up to one hour before your planned departure. This ensures timely and appropriate vehicle arrangements for those with specific accessibility needs.
Trip Limits and Special Considerations
Transport DC allows customers up to ten (10) one-way trips each month, which translates to five round trips. This allocation is designed to meet the regular transportation needs of Metro Access users within the District of Columbia. Most trip requests are for same-day, on-demand taxi service. However, remember that WAV reservations can be made in advance.
Importantly, trips for dialysis treatments are exempt from the monthly trip limit. If you require Transport DC for dialysis, ensure you have the necessary exemption form to avoid these essential trips counting against your ten-trip allowance. You can find more detailed information in the Transport DC Customer Guide.
Booking Your Ride: Step-by-Step
Booking a Transport DC ride is straightforward. Follow these steps when you call the booking line:
- Dial 1-844-322-7732. This is your primary contact number to arrange Transport DC services.
- Listen to the automated system’s greeting. It will then prompt you to enter your Metro Access ID number – your transport number. You can either type it in using your phone keypad or say the number aloud when prompted.
- The system will then ask if you want to save your phone number as your primary contact number for future bookings. Press “1” if you wish to do so for easier future ride requests.
- After these steps, the system will automatically connect you to a Transport DC provider who will finalize your ride request.
- In the event that the first provider is unable to fulfill your request within 15 minutes, you will be transferred to another provider to ensure you get a ride as quickly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Transport DC Number and Service
What if my Metro Access ID expires? Can I still use Transport DC?
No. An expired Metro Access ID means you are no longer eligible for the Transport DC program. It is crucial to recertify your Metro Access eligibility before your ID expires. Contact the WMATA Transit Accessibility Center at 202-962-2700 to recertify. Your active Metro Access ID, or transport number, is essential for continued service access.
How long will I wait for a Transport DC ride?
Wait times can vary depending on taxi availability at any given time. Transport DC providers strive to dispatch a vehicle as quickly as possible. To minimize wait times and ensure timely pick-up, it is highly recommended to pre-schedule your trip whenever feasible, especially for important appointments.
How soon after receiving my Metro Access ID can I use Transport DC?
WMATA updates Transport DC eligibility information at the beginning of each month. Therefore, once you receive your Metro Access ID and are registered in the system, you should be able to use Transport DC services starting from the beginning of the following month.
Can I bring bags or luggage on Transport DC?
Yes, within limits. Passengers can bring a reasonable number of packages, specifically up to five grocery-sized shopping bags, with a weight limit of 40 pounds in total. All items must be transportable in a single trip from the vehicle to your exterior door.
Are companion riders allowed?
Yes. Companions are welcome to ride with Transport DC participants at no extra charge.
Can I use someone else’s Metro Access ID to get a ride?
No. Transport DC service is exclusively for the individual named on the Metro Access ID. Using another person’s Metro Access ID, or transport number, is a violation of program rules and can lead to suspension from the program.
How will I be informed of program changes?
Transport DC program updates are communicated through various channels. Announcements are made at the quarterly TDC User Meetings, which include advocates, riders, and providers. Updates are also disseminated via email and posted as notices on the official DFHV website.
What happens if I don’t follow the Transport DC program rules?
Non-compliance with program rules can result in consequences. Initially, you will receive a warning letter from DFHV. Continued violations, such as exceeding trip limits, misuse of a Metro Access ID, or misrepresenting trip purposes, can lead to suspension from the Transport DC program. Refer to the TDC Customer Guide for complete program rules.
Feedback and Complaints
Transport DC values user feedback. You can submit complaints or provide feedback through the official complaint form. Alternatively, you can email your concerns to [email protected]. Written complaints can be mailed to the Department of For-Hire Vehicles at 2235 Shannon Place, SE, Suite 2001, Washington, DC 20020. You can also call (202) 645-7300 to lodge a complaint or provide feedback.
Join TDC User Meetings
Your input is important! Participate in the quarterly Transport DC User Group meetings held on the first Wednesday of each quarter at 6:00 pm. For meeting links and further details, contact [email protected]. Meeting dates for 2024 are: April 3, 2024, July 3, 2024, October 2, 2024, and January 8, 2025 (for 2025).
For accommodation requests related to meetings, including sign language interpretation, contact the Office of Disability Rights at (202) 724-5055 at least five business days prior to the meeting.
Understanding your transport number, which is your Metro Access ID number, is the first step to utilizing the valuable Transport DC service. This guide aims to provide all the necessary information for eligible riders to confidently use and benefit from this accessible transportation option in Washington, D.C.
