How to Get Free — or Low-Cost — Car Rides

Need a ride to the doctor, the grocery store, or pharmacy? If a neighbor or family member can’t take you, a ride service can help you stay independent.

Your options will depend on what ride services are available where you live.

AARP Foundation has been helping people find affordable ways to secure the essentials for more than 60 years. Here’s what you need to know about getting a ride when you need one.

Rideshare Apps

On-demand ride services like Lyft and Uber are today’s version of taxis. There are two ways to save money on rides: Ordering a ride during less busy times of day and sharing a ride with another passenger going the same way.

While you schedule Lyft or Uber rides using a smartphone app, there are ways to book and pay with a simple phone call. Some assisted living communities, health organizations, and senior centers partner with Lyft and can schedule a ride for you. Your doctor also may be able to schedule a free ride to your appointment for you using Uber Health.

You can also call to schedule Uber or Lyft rides through GoGoGrandparent. Memberships start at $9.99 a month, and also include access to delivery services like Instacart, Postmates, or DoorDash. On a tight budget? An out-of-town relative may be happy to pay for your subscription.

Assisted Transportation

Most counties across the U.S. offer discounted public transportation services for older adults who need door-to-door rides. Call your local senior center to see what’s available in your area.

If you need extra help, a door-through-door agency may be a good fit. For a small fee, drivers help you “through” your door and on “through” the door of your destination — and back. The service usually includes help with your bags, wheelchair, or walker, too. ITNAmerica is a door-through-door agency available in nine states (Kentucky, Connecticut, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, California, Oregon, Delaware, and Missouri) promising affordable rates — and they don’t allow tipping.

Volunteer Driver Programs

Churches, synagogues, or nonprofits in your area may have volunteers who give rides to shopping, recreation, doctor’s appointments and other everyday errands. You’ll need to make a reservation and it’s usually free or offered for a low fee.

Para-Transit

Unable to use the train or buses near you? Public transportation services are required to offer paratransit vans or buses, which provide rides for older adults or those with disabilities. Rules to qualify vary but in general, you must meet certain conditions under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To get a ride — usually shared with other passengers — you need to schedule it in advance. There may be senior discounts for your ride.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

If you’re on Medicaid, you may qualify for a free ride to your doctor’s appointments. Rules vary by state, but most offer what’s called non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) rides. To schedule a ride, you may need to call a Medicaid caseworker, a ride service, or another agency.

If you’re on private insurance, some Medicare Advantage plans also may cover rides to doctor’s visits. And a growing number of insurers and state Medicaid programs are covering Lyft and Uber rides. Check with your insurance provider for details.

Ultimately deciding which ride service to use will depend on what’s available in your area. In addition to asking your local senior center, you can search what’s available near you.