Access Services — Door-Area Rides When Regular Buses Aren't Possible
What it is
Access is LA County's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) paratransit: shared-ride vans across the county for people whose disability prevents them from using regular buses and trains. It's about ability, not age — many riders are seniors, but eligibility is decided at an in-person evaluation, not by birthday or diagnosis.
Who can get it
Anyone in LA County whose disability or health condition keeps them from riding accessible public buses/trains, as determined at a free in-person Transit Evaluation.
What it costs
Low per-trip fares (the Rider's Guide on the site lists them). The application and evaluation are free, and Access will drive you to the evaluation for free if you need a ride.
The honest part
The eligibility decision can take up to 21 days, and the in-person evaluation visit can take up to 4 hours. If 21 days pass with no answer, you can ride while you wait.
How to start
Call Customer Service (800) 827-0829 (option 1) — or apply at eligibility.accessla.org — to get an ID number. TDD (800) 827-1359.
Fill out the application (English/Spanish; other formats on request).
After 3 days (online) or 7 days (mail), call (626) 532-1616 to schedule your in-person evaluation. Bring photo ID, your medication list or medical papers, and the cane/walker/wheelchair you normally use.
You'll get the decision by mail within 21 days. If you disagree, you can appeal in writing within 60 days.
Official sources
We describe programs; we don't make medical, legal, or insurance decisions for you. For Medicare choices, HICAP counselors advise you free: (800) 434-0222. For anything medical, talk with the doctor.