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Lane Transition Service Center Parent Guide_ 2021 Spanish.docx

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TEXAS WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS –VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES Brochure

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TEXAS WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS –VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES Brochure

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TEXAS WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS – Pre-ETS Catalog

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TEXAS WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS – Pre-ETS Catalog

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College Handbook for the Blind or Visually Impaired - TWC

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College Handbook for the Blind or Visually Impaired - TWC

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How to Apply for a Texas Driver License as a Teen

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How to Apply for a Texas Driver License as a Teen

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This page will provide you, as a teen, with information on:

Applying for your first driver license

Transferring your out-of-state driver license to Texas

Applying for your motorcycle license

One of the more important decisions you and your parents or legal guardian can make is deciding when you should apply for your first driver license. There are many laws specific to teen drivers that you are required to follow when applying for and holding a driver license. These laws are designed to educate you about the rules of the road and ensure you practice safe driving habits before being allowed to graduate to the next step. These graduated steps provide you the chance to improve your driving skills over time in lower-risk environments.

If you are under 18 years of age, one of the first requirements is completion of a driver education course. You can begin the classroom phase of a driver education course at 14 years of age, but you cannot apply for a learner license until you are at least 15 years of age. There are four types of driver education to select from when taking this course:

1. A traditional driver education course offered by a certified driver training school

2. An online driver education course offered by a certified driver training school

3. Parent-taught driver education (PTDE)

4. Driver education offered in public school

To select one of the options and get started on your driver education course, visit Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) Driver Education and Safety for more information.

Driver Licensing

There are two phases of licensing for all teens before graduating to a full driver license. This is called the Graduated Driver License Program.

Phase I - Learner License

This entry-level restricted driver license allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult before you graduate to the next level.

You must be between 15 and 17 years of age.

You must have completed the first six hours of the driver education classroom instruction if you are using the concurrent method or all 32 hours of classroom instruction if you are using the block method.

You must provide evidence that you:

Obtained a high school diploma or its equivalent; or

Are a student enrolled in a public, private, or home school and attended school for at least 90% of the time in the fall or spring semester preceding the date of application; or

Are currently enrolled in a program to prepare you to pass the high school equivalency exam. You must have been enrolled for the previous 45 days from the date of applying for your learner license; or

If you are applying during the summer and are still enrolled in school, your last report card for the most recent school year is acceptable provided it has your name, a list of absences, and a complete listing of grades.

You must have a licensed adult 21 years or older in the front passenger seat when driving.

You must hold this license for at least six months, unless you turn 18.

You are restricted from using a wireless communications device, including a hands-free device, except in the case of an emergency.

If your license is suspended at any time while you hold a learner license, the initial six-month period increases by the number of days of the suspension. This is to make sure you hold a valid learner license for a full six-months.

Your learner license will expire on your 18th birthday.

Applying for your Learner License
You must visit a driver license office and provide proof of the following to obtain a learner license.

1. U.S. Citizenship or, if you are not a U.S. Citizen, evidence of lawful presence

2. Texas Residency

3. Proof of Identity, and

4. Social Security Number

5. Evidence of Texas Vehicle Registration for each vehicle you own. (New Residents who are surrendering an out-of-state driver license only)

6. Proof of Insurance* for each vehicle you own

7. Texas Driver Education Certificate showing classroom completion.

1. Certified Driver Training Schools - (DE-964)

2. Parent Taught Driver Education - (DE-964)

3. Public School Driver Education - (DE-964E)

4. Does not apply to new residents who are 18 years of age or older and surrendering an out-of-state driver license.

8. Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE form) issued by a school, or a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).

1. VOE requires a signature (a stamped or computer generated signature of a school official is acceptable), and

2. Is valid for 30 days from issuance, or

3. Is valid for 90 days from issuance between the months of June through August, or

4. A current report card for the most recent school year (see Phase I information above)

*If you do not own a vehicle, you will sign a statement affirming this.

Once you have gathered the necessary documents and completed the required courses, you will need to do the following:

1. Complete the driver license application before arriving at your local office. (This form is also available at all driver license offices)

2. Make an appointment at a driver license office. Bring a parent or legal guardian (If you are bringing a Legal Guardian, you must also bring a certified court order demonstrating guardianship).

3. Provide the following documentation to the license and permit specialist:

1. Application for the issuance of a driver license.

2. U.S. Citizenship or, if you are not a U.S. Citizen, evidence of lawful presence

3. Texas Residency

4. Proof of Identity

5. Social Security Number

6. Proof of Texas Vehicle Registration

7. Proof of Vehicle Insurance* (see above)

8. Texas Driver Education Certificate (DE-964 or DE-964E)

9. Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE form) issued by a school, or a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).

VOE requires a signature (a stamped or computer generated signature of a school official is acceptable, and

Is valid for 30 days from issuance, or

Is valid for 90 days from issuance between the months of June through August, or

A current report card for the most recent school year (see Phase I information above)

10. Evidence of successfully passing the driver knowledge exam. (If you have not taken this test during the classroom portion of driver education, you will take it at the driver license office).

4. Provide your signature.

5. Provide your thumbprints.

6. Have your picture taken.

7. Pay the application fee.

8. Pass Vision Exam.

You may complete the testing requirements at the DL office or through a Third Party provider. Read about testing in other languages and driving test requirements.

Once your learner license has been issued, you will receive a temporary driver license. Before leaving the driver license office, review the printed information on your temporary driver license for accuracy. If any of the information is incorrect, notify the License and Permit Specialist. Your new card will arrive in the mail in approximately 2 - 3 weeks. To check the mailing status of your card, visit our mailing status web page.

Note: If you hold an identification card, you are not eligible to apply for a learner license unless you surrender your identification card at the time of application.

Phase II - Provisional Driver License

You must have held your valid learner license for at least six-months, unless you have reached 18 years of age

You must be between 16 and 17 years of age

You must have completed behind-the-wheel portion of driver education, which includes:

7 hours of in car observation sitting beside the instructor, watching the instructor demonstrate certain points of instruction

7 hours of in car observation driving and demonstrating to the instructor that you have learned the points of instruction

30 hours of behind the wheel driving practice, of which at least 10 hours must be at night with a licensed driver 21 years of age or older in the vehicle at all times

You must have completed the Impact Texas Teen Driver Program within the previous 90 days of taking your skills test

You must successfully pass your driving test

Expires on your 18th birthday

You may not drive a motor vehicle with more than one passenger in the vehicle under 21 who is not a family member

You may not drive a motor vehicle between midnight and 5:00 a.m., unless the operation of the vehicle is necessary for the driver to work, to attend or participate in a school-related activity, or due to a medical emergency

You are restricted from using a wireless communications device, including a hands-free device, except in the case of an emergency

This driver license will expire when you turn 18. You will need to visit your local driver license office within 30 days of it expiring to renew it. You will then be issued a driver license for individuals under 21 years of age.

Applying for your Provisional Driver License
When you are ready to apply for a provisional driver license and have completed all the learner license requirements, you will need to visit a driver license office and provide additional documentation.

1. Complete the driver license application before arriving for your appointment. (This form is also available at all driver license offices)

2. Bring a parent or legal guardian or bring the notarized application signed by the parent or guardian and visit your local driver license
office. VisitDriver License Services - Appointments to make an appointment at a driver license office.

3. Provide the following documentation to the License and Permit Specialist:

1. Application for the issuance of a driver license.

2. Evidence of lawful presence, if you are not a U.S. Citizen

3. Proof of Identity

4. Texas Driver Education Certificate of Completion (DE-964 or DE-964E)

5. Evidence of successfully passing the driving test (if you took the driving test at a driver training school, the results must be provided by the school in a sealed envelope and provided to DPS at the time you are applying for your license)

6. Impact Texas Driver Program Certificate of Completion

4. Provide your signature.

5. Provide your thumbprints.

6. Have your picture taken.

7. Pay the application fee.

8. Pass Vision Exam.

9. Provide proof of Vehicle Insurance (if you will be taking the driving skills test)

You may complete the driving test requirements at the DL office or through a Third Party provider. Read about testing in other languages and driving test requirements. If you will be taking your driving test at a local driver license office, you will be required to:

Schedule an appointment online, and

Present proof of current registration and insurance for the vehicle you will be testing in at the time of the driving test.

Once your driver license has been issued, you will receive a temporary driver license. Before leaving the driver license office, review the printed information on your temporary driver license for accuracy. If any of the information is incorrect, notify the License and Permit Specialist. Your new card will arrive in the mail in approximately 2 - 3 weeks. To check the mailing status of your card, visit our mailing status web page.

You are eligible to renew your driver license up to 30 days prior to the expiration date, which will occur on your 18th birthday. You are eligible to renew online by visiting https://www.dps.texas.gov/driver. The cost is the same as renewing at a driver license office. If you choose to renew in person before you turn 18, you will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If you renew in person after your 18th birthday, you will no longer need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian; however, you must make alternate transportation arrangements to visit your local driver license office, as it is a violation of state law to operate a motor vehicle with an expired driver license.

Motorcycle License

For information on how to obtain a Class M license, see Motorcycle Licenses.

Transferring/Presenting an out-of-state driver license

If you are under the age of 18 and transferring your out-of-state learner permit or provisional driver license to Texas, the following may apply to you:

Learner license without proof of driver education
If you are transferring/presenting a valid out-of-state learner license and are not able to provide proof of successfully completing a teen driver education course, you will be issued a Texas learner license. The Texas learner license must be held for 6 months or until the age of 18, whichever comes first, regardless of how long you held a learner license in another state. You will be required to complete a Texas driver education course, the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) program, and the driving test before being issued a provisional driver license.

Learner license with proof of driver education
If you are between 16 - 17 years of age and are transferring/presenting a valid out-of-state learner license that you have held for at least six months, and present proof of successful completion of a teen driver education course, you will be required to complete the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) program, provide verification of school enrollment and attendance, and successfully pass the driving test before being issued a provisional driver license.

If you are between 16 - 17 years of age and are transferring/presenting a provisional driver license, you will be issued a Texas provisional driver license.

All applicants under 18 must take the skills exam even if they hold a valid driver license from another state or country.

Hardship License

A minor's restricted driver license (MRDL), also known as a hardship license, may be issued under certain instances where it has been established that there is a necessity to drive and the applicant is under 16 years of age. A hardship license applicant must complete all of the regular licensing requirements listed above, with the exception of holding a learner license for a minimum of six months, and must be at least 15 years of age. A hardship license expires on the applicant's next birthday.

For more information and to review the types of hardships that qualify for a hardship license, please review the hardship license application.

Tobacco Awareness

Individuals under 18 years of age who are convicted of possession, purchase, consumption or receipt of cigarettes or tobacco products must attend a tobacco awareness program approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Failure to complete the program within 90 days could result in the suspension of the individual's driver license (or driving privilege if not licensed).

Alcohol Awareness

Texas enacted laws to discourage drivers from drinking and driving to make Texas roads safer. These laws include a Zero Tolerance for minors (under 21 years of age) who commit any alcohol related offenses. Zero tolerance means that a minor may not purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, or possess an alcoholic beverage. If any detectable amount of alcohol is in their system while operating a motor vehicle, including a watercraft, in a public place, it is a criminal offense of Driving under the Influence of Alcohol by a Minor (DUIA by a Minor). For more detailed information, download and review our Alcohol Related Laws for Minors brochure.

For more information on enforcement actions, please visit the web pages listed under Suspensions & Reinstatement.

For all available collision reports and summaries related to teen drivers, please visit the Collision Report and Summary page.

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How to Apply for a Texas Driver License as a Teen

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This page will provide you, as a teen, with information on: Applying for your first driver license Transferring your out-of-state driver license to Texas Applying for your motorcycle license One of the more important decisions you and your parents or legal guardian can make is deciding when you should apply for your first driver license.

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How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

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How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

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The Department issues identification cards that are valid for up to six years to Texas residents. To apply for an ID card, you will need to provide proof of the following:

1. U.S. Citizenship or, if you are not a U.S. Citizen, evidence of lawful presence.

2. Texas Residency

3. Identity and

4. Social Security Number

Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you will need to do the following:

1. Complete the identification card application before arriving at your local office (This form is also available at all driver license offices).

2. Make an appointment at a driver license office.

3. Provide the following documentation to the license and permit specialist:

1. Application for the issuance of an identification card

2. U.S. Citizenship or, if you are not a U.S. Citizen, evidence of lawful presence

3. Texas Residency

4. Identity, and

5. Social Security Number

4. Provide your thumbprints.

5. Have your picture taken.

6. Pay the application fee.

Once your identification card has been issued, you will receive a temporary identification card. Before leaving the driver license office, review the printed information on your temporary identification card for accuracy. If any of the information is not correct, notify the license and permit specialist. Your new card will arrive in the mail in approximately 4 - 6 weeks. To check the mailing status of your card, visit our mailing status web page.

U.S. Military Veterans

Some disabled veterans may qualify for a fee exemption on their driver license or ID card. More information about this service, including qualification requirements, is available on the Veteran Services page.

Temporary Visitors and Foreign Students

Temporary visitors and foreign students applying for a Texas identification card must meet additional requirements. For more information, visit the U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence Requirement page.

Address Confidentiality Program

For information on the Address Confidentiality Program, visit the Address Confidentiality Program page.

Note: If you hold a driver license, you are no longer eligible to apply for an identification card unless you surrender your driver license at the time of application.

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How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

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The Department issues identification cards that are valid for up to six years to Texas residents. To apply for an ID card, you will need to provide proof of the following: U.S. Citizenship or, if you are not a U.S. Citizen, evidence of lawful presence.

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Texas Medicaid waivers - long-term services and supports & get full Medicaid health care benefits 

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Texas Medicaid waivers - long-term services and supports & get full Medicaid health care benefits 

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People who receive waiver long-term services and supports also get full Medicaid health care benefits.

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Texas Medicaid waivers are a gateway to getting services for your child. We don't want to tell you what to do, but we strongly suggest that you consider adding your child to the waiver interest list(s), which many parents call "waiting lists," if you haven't already done so.

Even if you hope your child will never need those services, it is important that they be added to the interest list for any program(s) that might meet their needs. Your child might have to wait a long time to get services through the waiver. You can always decline the services once your child moves to the top of the list.

Many parents say they wish they had signed up for the waiver interest lists when their child was born or first diagnosed. Some of the interest lists have more than a 15-year wait time.

We know this page has a lot of information for you to take in. It's okay if you don't absorb everything here in one visit. Take a deep breath and come back as much as you want or need to.

What Are Waivers and How Do They Work?

Waivers let states use Medicaid funds for long-term home and community-based services for people with disabilities or special health care needs in order to help them live in the community.

Before the creation of waiver programs, people had to live in hospitals, nursing homes, or other institutions like State Supported Living Centers or Residential Treatment Centers so Medicaid would pay for long-term services.

Some of the services you can get with a waiver are:

Personal care for help with things like bathing or dressing

Nursing care

Home modifications like ramps

Car modifications

Respite care

Certain therapies

They are named "waivers" because certain Medicaid requirements are waived (meaning they don't apply). For example, family income. All but one waiver are based on just the child's income alone. Your child's income means any money that they personally have earned or are paid-not your whole family's income.

Besides getting these additional services, people who receive waiver long-term services and supports also get full Medicaid health care benefits. This is a huge help for children and adults who have complicated medical needs and no other health insurance.

Texas has seven waivers. Each one has its own interest list. Consider adding your child to all the interest lists based on their identified diagnosis and current needs. You don't know what future needs your child might have. You might want to place them on as many of the lists as possible.

Waivers are managed by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

When there is room for your child or young adult on one of the waiver programs, they will come off of the interest list for the program with the opening. You may choose to continue to leave your child's name on interest lists for other waiver programs. This is when HHSC and/or DSHS will review diagnostic and other information to decide if your child meets the waiver requirements. Depending on the waiver, you might be asked for information about their medical, psychological, and developmental history, as well as financial and income eligibility. The eligibility information that is needed changes based on the waiver. The comparison of Texas Medicaid waiver programs chart gives you more details about what is needed for each of the waivers.

How to Add Your Child to Interest Lists

You do not have to prove your child is eligible before adding them to the waiver interest lists. Your child will go through this process once they move to the top of the list. Only then is the eligibility information reviewed and used to decide if your child can enroll.

Call 1-877-438-5658 for information about putting your child on an interest list for long-term services. This is for the CLASS, DBMD, and MDCP waivers. See the section below for details about each of these waiver programs.

Call your Local Mental Health Authority about the Youth Empowerment Services (YES) waiver program. Go to the DSHS website to find the Local Mental Health Authority in your area.

Call your Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority (LIDDA) to get your name on the interest list for the HCS and Texas Home Living Waiver programs. You can search for your LIDDA's telephone number.

Texas Medicaid Waivers

Click on the links below for more information:

Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS): gives home and community-based supports to children and adults with related conditions. There are over 200 related conditions, like cerebral palsy and spina bifida. The related condition must have occurred before the child was age 22.

Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD): gives services for children and adults who are deaf-blind or have a related condition that leads to deaf-blindness, and who have another disability.

Home and Community-based Services (HCS): gives services and supports to children and adults with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live with their families, in their own homes, or in small group homes with no more than 4 people.

Medically Dependent Children Program (MDCP): gives services to children and adults who are 20 and younger who are medically fragile as an alternative to receiving services in a nursing facility.

STAR+PLUS Home and Community-based Services (HCBS): gives services to adults over the age of 21 to keep them in their community and not in a nursing home facility.

Texas Home Living (TxHmL): gives services to children and adults with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live in their own home or their family's home.

Youth Empowerment Services (YES): gives home and community-based services to children under the age of 19 who otherwise would need psychiatric inpatient care or whose parents would turn to state custody for care.

Important Tips About Interest (Waiting) Lists

Consider adding your child to as many waiver interest lists as possible when your child is first diagnosed with a disability or special health care needs. You should also think about adding your child to the lists even if they aren't diagnosed but have reason to believe that your child will have a long-term disability or special health care needs. If your child no longer needs the service when they come off the interest list, you can tell them you do not want the waiver. If you refuse a waiver slot offer for your child once they are at the top of the interest list, your child's name will be placed at the bottom of the interest list again.

Ask for an email confirmation or a mailed letter when you add your child to the Medicaid waiver interest lists. Keep this in a safe place.

It is very important to keep your address and contact phone numbers updated. If your child moves to the top of the interest list and they can't reach you, your child will be dropped from the list. They might also call you or send you a letter to see if your child still needs services. If they can't reach you, they might take your child off the list.

At least once a year, call to update your contact information. Most parents remember by calling around their child's birthday. During these calls, you can also find out where your child is on the list. Write it down in a safe place, like your care notebook, so you can keep track of how far your child moves up the list each year. See our Organizing Medical Records page for more information about care notebooks.

Once your child moves to the top of an interest list, a service coordinator, case manager, or nurse will schedule a home visit. This will start the process of determining if your child is able to enroll in one of the waiver programs. You can also research the waiver program beforehand to learn what it takes for your child to get services.

Your child can remain on other waiver interest lists while receiving waiver services. They just can't receive services from more than one waiver program at the same time. For example, your child is receiving MDCP services. They move to the top of the CLASS interest list and are approved for CLASS services, you will have to pick between the two programs. You might want to connect with other parents who have done this before.

If you have other health insurance through an employer and your child is enrolled in a waiver program, you might be reimbursed for health insurance premiums through the Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) program. Once your child starts receiving waiver services, call your local utility company about possible discounts on electricity, water, and wastewater bills, if your child lives in your home. Depending on income, your family might also be able to receive food stamps (SNAP benefits).

Most of the waivers offer the Consumer Directed Services (CDS) choice for at least some, if not all, of the program's services. Also known as "self-directed services," this gives you more personal control over how your child's services are delivered, and many parents prefer it. For example, parents who pick the CDS choice serve as the employer for their child's attendants. They are able to interview, hire / fire, and train them. It can take up a lot of your time. You might want to check out our connecting with other parents page to learn from other parents.

If your child has an intellectual disability or a condition related to an ID, and is in a crisis or has high medical needs, call your LIDDA to ask about diversion slots. You can search for your LIDDA's telephone number on the HHSC website. These slots are for extreme cases only, such as a critical health crisis that puts the family at risk of placing the child in a state-supported living center. If approved, your child moves to the top of the HCS interest list.

Quotes from Parents

"Our son has been receiving MDCP services for 4 years, and we don't know what we would do without this waiver program. It has allowed us to care for him at home and provides services we wouldn't otherwise be able to afford."

"We are still waiting. We started on the CLASS list at number 50,000 and now we are down to number 8,000. We've been waiting for 9 years. I should have done it sooner."

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Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs for Children with Disabilities | Navigate Life Texas

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Parents of children with disabilities in Texas should consider adding their child to Medicaid waiver interest list(s), even if they hope their child will never need those services.

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Supplemental Special Education Services (SSES)

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Supplemental Special Education Services (SSES)

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Supplemental Special Education Services (SSES) are $1,500 one-time on-line grants for eligible parents/caregivers of eligible students served by special education that have been impacted by COVID-19 school closures.

Families of eligible students can use the on-line accounts to obtain educational materials and resources and/or services such as additional speech therapy or other specific services.

Frequently Asked Questions
If you have applied and want to follow up on the decision that you received, please contact us at ssesinfo@tea.texas.gov or you can call SPEDTex at 1-855-773-3839.

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Supplemental Special Education Services (SSES)

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Supplemental Special Education Services (SSES) are $1,500 one-time on-line grants for eligible parents/caregivers of eligible students served by special education that have been impacted by COVID-19 school closures. Families of eligible students can use the on-line accounts to obtain educational materials and resources and/or services such as additional speech therapy or other specific services.

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RIDER NOTE:
On Friday, July 23, METRO instructed Yellow Cab to halt providing METROLift Subsidy Program (MSP) trips due to insurance concerns. If you are a METROLift rider and you would like to request a MSP/Same Day Trip or you have questions, please call a METROLift representative at 713-652-8015. We apologize for any inconveniences and we appreciate you riding METRO.

Welcome to METROLift! The METROLift Program Guide will introduce you to METROLift transportation and provide the basic information you need to use the service. Upon request, this information is available in other formats.

METROLift is a shared-ride public transit service. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), travel times and the timeliness of service are comparable to METRO's fixed route bus service. Please read this policy brochure carefully to familiarize yourself with the type and level of service that METROLift provides. Remember that you have a responsibility to use accessible fixed-route METRO bus and rail service when possible.

Our goal is to provide safe and reliable transportation. If, after reading this manual, you have questions regarding METROLift, please call the METROLift Customer Service and Eligibility Department at 713-225-0119.

Download Program Guide Booklet (PDF)

Accessible Transportation Choices

METRO's fixed-route buses and METRORail are 100 percent accessible and require no advance notice to ride. Try one of our convenient routes and take control of your mobility. If you are not familiar with riding fixed-route bus and rail and would like to learn, please call 713-750-4234 to speak with a METRO Travel Trainer who will assist you. Learn more about the accessibility features offered by these services.

Plan ahead with METROLift's paratransit trip planner and electronic fare payment system MACS-WEB / EZ-Wallet.

Features

Book a trip not from your previous trip list

Manage recurring trips

Buy and book trips via electronic fare media on your personal online account

Get a countdown to real-time trip arrival

Locate your ride in real-time

View previous trips / transaction history

Purchase fare tickets / period passes

Comment online

METROLift's Automated Computer System (MACS) on the phone is in English and Spanish.

English or Spanish-speaking riders can schedule, verify trips, and even cancel their rides without having to speak with a live agent. Riders can simply call 713-739-4690, THEN PRESS 2 to use the Spanish option.

MACS Operating Hours
24 hours a day / 7 days
5 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Please call METROLift Customer Service at 713-225-0119 if you have questions or need assistance.

Descargar PDF Español >>

Scheduling your METROLift trip is easy with MACS. Book a next-day ride or confirm a previously scheduled pick-up with the touch of a button.

Book trips 5 a.m. - 5 p.m.
7 days a week
Confirm or cancel trips, 24/7
Go online - No more waiting

Now with three ways to book your trip, getting around town has never been easier.

Reservations on the phone - Call 713-225-6716 to speak with a representative to book your trip.

MACS - Call 713-225-6716, then press the #1 to use our automated trip scheduling system.

MACS-WEB / EZ-Wallet - Schedule your trip and pay for it online quickly and easily.

List of METROLift Fare Items

Base Fare - Single Trip ..................$1.25
Premium Fare - Single Trip.............$2.50
Ticket Book - 11 Single Tickets......$12.50
Monthly Pass..................................$47.25
Annual Pass....................................$418.50
Freedom Q® Card..........................FREE

METROLift Fare Calculator >>

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RIDER NOTE: On Friday, July 23, METRO instructed Yellow Cab to halt providing METROLift Subsidy Program (MSP) trips due to insurance concerns. If you are a METROLift rider and you would like to request a MSP/Same Day Trip or you have questions, please call a METROLift representative at 713-652-8015.

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Bus Accessibility Features

All of our buses are accessible to people with disabilities. Buses feature the following:

Ramps or lifts on all of our buses

Many METRO buses offer, upon request, a kneeling feature to assist with boarding. Standees on lifts are permitted under the ADA

Two priority-seating areas for the elderly and people with disabilities

Equipped with an easy-to-reach call bell and special securement belts designed to secure the mobility devices of patrons who use a wheelchair or scooter in two 30"x48" wheelchair securement areas

Bus pads, sidewalk links, and curb cuts at most of our bus stops

Solid-square bus poles at bus stops

Automatic audio and visual announcements on buses at major stops, main intersections and transfer points along the route

Large, bright destination signs on the front and sides of the bus

Lighted "Stop Request" signs inside the bus for riders with hearing impairments

Transit Centers connecting bus routes in neighborhoods across the region for safe and easy transfers

METRORail Accessibility Features

METRORail features accessible light-rail cars and accessible rail stations.

Rail Trains

All METRORail accessible stations feature audio and visual announcements explaining when the next train is arriving

Rail cars are level with the station platform for easy boarding

There are audio and visual announcements of stops inside the rail cars

Each rail car offers four areas for wheelchairs. No securements are required on the train. Riders using wheelchairs also may choose to sit in any space
that is available to them

The rail car doors open automatically and have a sensitive edge that prevents closing if an object or person is detected in their path

Major bus transit centers Northline, Downtown, Midtown, and in the Texas Medical Center connect the accessible METRORail with the accessible METRO bus service

Station Platforms

All platforms 100 percent ADA-compliant

Sloped ramp access from both ends of level boarding platforms

Variable Message Signs on all platforms

Exit left or right announcements in English and Spanish

Edge of platform marked with contrast-colored, 24-inch tactile warning strips with truncated domes

Accessible shuttle buses available when rail is not operational

Red Line - Provides service from the Northline Transit Center/HCC to Fannin South Transit Center and numerous points in between. Featured stops include Downtown, the Museum District, the Texas Medical Center and NRG Park.

Green Line - Provides service from the Theater District in Downtown through the Historic East End, ending at the Magnolia Park Transit Center.

Purple Line -Provides service from Downtown to Texas Southern University, University of Houston (Central Campus), MacGregor Park, and ending at Palm Center Transit Center near MLK and Griggs.

We are committed to a public transportation system that everyone can use. We encourage persons with disabilities to take advantage of the freedom, independence, flexibility and reliability provided by our accessible bus and rail network.

METROLift is a shared-ride public transit service. Travel times and the timeliness of service are comparable to fixed-route bus service, per ADA's mandate. Please read this policy brochure carefully. Whenever possible, use accessible fixed-route bus service before using METROLift.

Still have questions about METROLift? Call the METROLift Customer Service Department at 713-225-0119. Upon request, this information is available in other formats.

MACS-WEB METROLift's Automated Computer System

Book Trips 5 a.m. - 5 p.m.
7 days a week
Confirm or Cancel trips, 24/7
Go online - No more waiting

Now with three ways to book your trip, getting around town has never been easier.

Reservations on the Phone - Call 713-225-6716 to speak with a representative to book your trip

MACS - Call 713-225-6716 then press the # 1 to use our automated trip scheduling system

MACS-WEB - Schedule your trip online quickly and easily

STAR arranges vehicles as needed to meet ADA requirements. Most vans are equipped with running boards and handles to assist patrons with boarding. We work with vanpool groups that require ADA accommodations to find the most convenient and comfortable option to accommodate all riders, including those with disabilities.

As a practical matter, vanpool groups often struggle to retain enough riders when there are expectations of accommodating one or more riders who needs assistance to board the van. We work to offset this by not only covering all of the extra costs to provide accessible vehicles, but also to cover some rider loss that results.

For example, we have a group of five in a special vehicle equipped for low-floor side ramp access for the one patron in a wheelchair. We even installed a floor locking feature to mirror the one the patron has in her personal vehicle so there was bi-reconfiguration of her wheelchair needed. This group would otherwise have been in a minivan with seven passengers sharing the cost. So we price the van such that the five riders pay the same amount they would pay individually if they were part of a seven-passenger group in a minivan.

Fares / RideStore

If you're a senior or person with disabilities, learn about discounted fares on our system.

If you're a senior or person with disabilities, learn about services provided in the METRO RideStore.

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas ("METRO") is committed to providing safe, reliable, accessible, and user-friendly services to our customers, including those with disabilities. To ensure equal and safe access to all riders, this policy outlines the procedure for receiving, processing, and responding to requests for reasonable modifications to METRO's policies or practices by persons with disabilities.

This site has some usage tips and suggestions for users of the Window-Eyes and JAWS screen readers.

Alternative Accessibility Formats

Information found on this website can be provided in an alternative format upon request. Please contact Customer Service at 713-635-4000 to speak to a representative or email the Accessibility Coordinator at accessibility@ridemetro.org. METRO will do its best to provide the requested alternative format within a reasonable time.

Accessibility Compliance

Using WCAG level AA guidelines, this site is in the process of being updated to meet these accommodations to help ensure that the site is accessible by users who rely on assistive technologies such as screen readers or other input mechanisms.

More Help

Rail field supervisors are on duty during hours of operation to help patrons with disabilities. For questions on accessibility to bus stops and shelters, please call 713-635-4000 or Hearing & Speech Impaired Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 713-635-6993. If you've never ridden our system, we also offer free travel training. We'll ride the bus and train with you and show you how to get where you need to go. Call 713-750-4234 for an appointment.

Making Apps Accessible for People with Disabilities

Since releasing real-time data and METRO schedule information, developers have been creating innovative applications that make riding easier. In accordance with the committment to ensuring access for all, App developers are encouraged to make their Apps accessible for all customers.

Web Apps

For developers who create web-based applications, the Web Content Access Guidelines (WCAG) can assist you in making your content accessible for individuals with disabilities. Learn about making your web-based App accessible.

Apps for iPhone

Information specific to the creation of iPhone Apps that are accessible for individuals with disabilities can be found on Apple's website.

In addition, consider the following to ensure your iPhone App is accessible for those with low vision:

Landscape Mode: Wide is often more accessible than tall.

Multi-touch Zoom: Easy magnification makes everything easier to read.

Scalable Fonts: Tiny fonts are hard to read.

High Contrast Color Scheme: Light-on-dark reduces eye strain.

Apps That Use the Android OS Platform

Information specific for making smart phones that use the Android's accessibility features.

Apps for Windows Mobile

If you are designing an App for Windows Mobile users, guidelines for making your App accessible for individuals with disabilities can be found by visiting Microsoft's website.

Apps for Blackberry

Information specific to making Blackberry-based Apps accessible for individuals with disabilities can be found on Blackberry's website.

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All of our buses are accessible to people with disabilities. Buses feature the following: Ramps or lifts on all of our buses Many METRO buses offer, upon request, a kneeling feature to assist with boarding.

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Student METRO Q® Fare Card/METRO Day Pass Registration Form

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Student METRO Q® Fare Card/METRO Day Pass Registration Form

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | Disability Benefits Center

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a government program designed to help those lacking financial resources. SSI, like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is overseen by the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, the requirements to qualify for SSI slightly differ from SSDI.

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How To Qualify For Disability Benefits? How To Apply For Disability Benefits-

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How To Qualify For Disability Benefits? How To Apply For Disability Benefits-

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If you are unable to work because you are experiencing a disabling condition, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides two programs, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These two programs have some similarities and differences in qualifying.

Medically Qualifying for Disability Benefits

Both SSI and SSDI have the same medical requirements. You will need to meet a listing in the SSA's Blue Book. The Blue Book is available online. It is broken into 14 sections, each with the requirements for various qualifying conditions. You should review the Blue Book with your doctor to make sure you meet a listing.

If you do not meet a listing but are unable to work for at least one year, you may be able to qualify with an Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form. This form will be filled out by a doctor, demonstrating that you are unable to work in your field due to your condition.

Other SSDI Qualifications

To qualify for SSDI, you'll also need to have enough work credits. Work credits are earned by paying into Social Security. Though the number of required credits varies by age, typically if you have worked 5 of the last 10 years, you'll likely have enough credits.

Other SSI Qualifications

For SSI, not only will you need to medically qualify, but you'll need to be within specific household income limits. If you are single, then you must have less than $2,000 in assets. For those married, your spouse's income will be factored into your eligibility. You must be under $3,000 in total assets to qualify.

Getting an Attorney's Help

A disability lawyer can help you establish your eligibility for benefits. They can help you navigate the Blue Book to figure out if you qualify. Complete the Free Case Evaluation above to get in contact with a lawyer that takes cases in your area today!

Additional Resources

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How To Qualify For Disability Benefits | Disability Benefits Center

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If you are unable to work because you are experiencing a disabling condition, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides two programs, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These two pro…

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For an official list of HCS providers in Harris County issued by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)

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The Harris Center - Mental Health Forensic Services

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The Harris Center - Mental Health Forensic Services

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Crisis Intervention Response Team- CIRT -

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Crisis Intervention Response Team- CIRT -

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The Harris Center - Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program

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The Harris Center - Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program

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Children’s Outpatient Mental Health Services

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Children’s Outpatient Mental Health Services

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TexasAble - Savings Plan for Texas with Disabilities

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TexasAble - Savings Plan for Texas with Disabilities

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Lone Star - Continuing Edu, Grants and Scholarships, and Adult Edu and LiteracyPrograms - Eisenhower HS Fam Transition Night  - Passcode: vwX=X988

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Lone Star - Continuing Edu, Grants and Scholarships, and Adult Edu and LiteracyPrograms - Eisenhower HS Fam Transition Night  - Passcode: vwX=X988

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Passcode: vwX=X988

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Video Conferencing, Web Conferencing, Webinars, Screen Sharing

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Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise video communications, with an easy, reliable cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, chat, and webinars across mobile, desktop, and room systems. Zoom Rooms is the original software-based conference room solution used around the world in board, conference, huddle, and training rooms, as well as executive offices and classrooms. Founded in 2011, Zoom helps businesses and organizations bring their teams together in a frictionless environment to get more done.

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Lane Transition Service Center Resource  Guide

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Lane Transition Service Center Resource  Guide

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_Lane Transition Service Center Parent Guide_ 2021

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Texas A&M University - Aggie Achieve Program

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Texas A&M University - Aggie Achieve Program

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2019 Aggie Achieve Brochure FINAL 10 2019 (1)

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Transition in Texas Quick Overview - Region 5

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Transition in Texas Quick Overview - Region 5

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Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMC)

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Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMC)

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Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS)

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Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS)