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How Do I Apply for PSTA’S DART?

PSTA's Dial-a-Ride transportation system (DART) is provided under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This parallel transit program makes it possible for people with disabilities to have better access to the community. PSTA's "functional" DART transportation certification process will encourage people to use regular PSTA fixed route service whenever possible. A "functional" certification process determines if a person has the ability to use an accessible bus that travels on the fixed route by determining if you are able to do such things as travel to a bus stop, board a bus, and navigate the fixed route system, and does not make decisions based on the type of disability you have or a specific diagnosis by a physician. "Eligibility for DART services is a transportation decision, not a medical decision." This statement from the PSTA Web site seems contradictory since the ADA is all based on a medical determination of disability. However this interpretation of the regulations by PSTA's administration is correct. There are three categories under which a person can be eligible for DART transportation:
Eligibility includes those persons who, because of their disability, cannot independently use a regular, accessible bus.
Eligibility is based on the accessibility of vehicles and terminal/stops (i.e., a person is able to use the regular bus, but it is not yet accessible).
Eligibility pertains to situations in which a person cannot travel independently to or from a bus stop.
A person can also be given "conditional" eligibility for DART transportation if they are able to use the regular bus under certain conditions, but not others. In this situation, eligibility for DART transportation will be determined according to a particular set of circumstances or conditions, which pertain to a person's disability. If you do not qualify for PSTA's DART transportation services, a letter will be mailed explaining the reason and advising you of procedures to follow if you wish to appeal. If you wish assistance with an appeal please contact the Caring and Sharing Center for Independent Living. If your condition changes in the future, you may reapply for PSTA’s DART transportation services. If you have a permanent disability that makes it impossible for you to independently use the regular, wheelchair accessible PSTA buses, call PSTA at (727) 540-1800 for an application form. These forms are also available at the PSTA facility located at 3201 Scherer Drive, St Petersburg, Fl 33716.

| Apply | Contacts | CARE | DART | Glossary | Hurricane |
| Medicaid | Seniors | Services | Transit |