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Apply for Paratransit

How to Apply

Step 1: Fill Out the Form

Complete the Bus Plus Eligibility Form.
You can download the form below or call 515-283-8136 to request a copy by mail. Forms are available in:

  • English
  • Spanish
  • Arabic
  • Vietnamese
  • Serbo-Croatian
  • Swahili

Step 2: Have a Professional Sign the Form

A doctor or other qualified professional must complete part of your form to confirm your disability.

Step 3: Send Us Your Form

You can return your form:

  • In person at DART Central Station
  • By email: busplus@ridedart.com
  • Fax to us: 515-283-8103
  • Mail to us:
    DART Customer Service
    620 Cherry Street
    Des Moines, IA 50309

Step 4: We Review Your Application

  • We review your form within 21 days.
  • We will mail you a letter with the results.
  • We may contact you if we need more information.

What Happens Next?

If You Are Approved

  • You can book Bus Plus rides.
  • You can get a Bus Plus I.D. card.
  • Your Bus Plus ID lets you ride regular DART buses for free.

If You Are Not Approved

You can appeal the decision within 60 days.

Types of Eligibility

You may qualify in different ways based on your needs.

Unconditional Eligibility: You can use Bus Plus for all approved trips up to 3 years.

Temporary Eligibility: You can use Bus Plus for a short time. This is for a temporary disability. Approval lasts for the time your medical provider expects you to need it.

Conditional Eligibility: You can use Bus Plus only in certain situations, such as bad weather, certain locations or certain times of day. Approval lasts up to 3 years and for only when those conditions apply.

Denial/Not Eligible: You cannot use our Bus Plus program. This means you are able to use our regular bus service.

Recertification (For Current Riders)

You must reapply before your approval ends.

  • Apply 60 days before your expiration date.
  • We will mail you a reminder form.

Ride Regular Buses for Free

With your Bus Plus ID:

  • You can ride any regular DART bus for free
  • Show your Bus Plus ID when you board

To get an ID:

  • Call 515-283-8136
  • Or visit DART Central Station

Other Paratransit Services

We also work with:

  • Polk County
  • Managed Care Organizations (MCOs)
  • Other agencies

These groups may approve and pay for certain trips.

Polk County Service

If you are 18 or older and have a low income, you may qualify.

Trips may include:

  • Medical appointments
  • Grocery store
  • One other trip each month

If approved:

  • You ride at no cost
  • Trips may be limited to certain needs
  • Call Polk County at 515-286-3484 to apply.

Learn More