Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in North Carolina
Transportation Help for Single Moms in North Carolina
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built to help you take action fast. Every program, office, and resource is linked inline so you can click straight to what you need without hunting around.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call your health plan’s ride line for free Medicaid medical rides, or your county DSS if you are in NC Medicaid Direct. Ask for the next soonest pickup and tell them if it’s urgent pharmacy or hospital discharge.
- Use NC 211 to find same‑day gas cards, bus passes, or emergency rides from local nonprofits in your county. If phones are busy, try their online search.
- If work or classes are at risk because you can’t get there, contact NC Works for a supportive‑services request and ask about bus passes, gas cards, or short‑term ride help through WIOA or partner funds.
Quick Help Box — Keep These Handy
- NC Medicaid ride scheduling and rules: use your plan’s number or county DSS for NC Medicaid Direct. The NEMT page lists who to call and the timeline (ask at least 2 days ahead; 4 days for Medicaid Direct). (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- NC Medicaid Ombudsman if rides are late or denied: phone help and complaint options are listed near the bottom of the NEMT page. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- NC DMV no‑fee ID for people experiencing homelessness: instructions and the shelter letter requirement are on the DMV State IDs page. (ncdot.gov)
- Find local transit near you across all 100 counties: NCDOT’s public transit system directory and local transit search explain each system and how to contact them. (ncdot.gov)
- Statewide information and referrals 24/7: NC 211 by United Way (dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑892‑1162), with web search if calling isn’t safe or possible. (nc211.org)
How to Get a Free Ride to Medical Care with Medicaid in North Carolina
North Carolina Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) gets you to Medicaid‑covered medical, mental health, substance use, and pharmacy trips. Schedule at least 2 days ahead with your health plan’s ride broker; if you’re in NC Medicaid Direct, ask your county DSS at least 4 days ahead. Urgent pharmacy and hospital discharges don’t need advance notice — ask right away. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- Most important action: Call your plan’s NEMT number first. The official NEMT page lists all plan hotlines, plus NC Medicaid Direct’s instruction to contact your local DSS. If you don’t know your plan, call the NC Medicaid Enrollment Broker. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- What documents to have ready: Medicaid ID, appointment date/time/location, and any accessibility needs. If you drive yourself or a friend drives, ask about mileage reimbursement rules for your plan. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- If there’s a problem: Call your plan to fix the ride or file a complaint, then contact the NC Medicaid Ombudsman if the issue isn’t resolved. Keep dates, times, and names. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
NEMT Contacts Cheat Sheet
| Health Plan or Program | Ride scheduling phone | Standard notice | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AmeriHealth Caritas | 1-833-498-2262 | 2 days | Ask about pharmacy urgent rides |
| Carolina Complete Health | 1-855-397-3601 | 2 days | |
| Healthy Blue | 1-855-397-3602 | 2 days | |
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan | 1-800-349-1855 | 2 days | |
| WellCare | 1-877-598-7602 | 2 days | |
| Alliance Health | 1-855-759-9600 | 2 days | Tailored Plan |
| Partners Health Management | 1-833-577-2309 | 2 days | Tailored Plan |
| Trillium Health Resources | 1-877-685-2415 | 2 days | Tailored Plan |
| Vaya Total Care | 1-888-621-2084 | 2 days | Tailored Plan |
| NC Medicaid Direct/EBCI Tribal Option | Call your county DSS | 4 days | Use local DSS directory |
According to NC Medicaid (updated July 11, 2025), standard notice is 2 days for managed care and 4 days for NC Medicaid Direct; urgent trips (pharmacy/hospital discharge) can be arranged without advance notice. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate to the NC Medicaid Ombudsman and your county DSS director’s office, and document missed‑ride costs. If rides keep failing, ask your provider to fax a standing‑order request for recurring care. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
Fast, Low‑Cost Public Transit Options You Can Use Right Now
- Most important action: Use the statewide transit directory to find your local system and fare options. North Carolina has transit in all 100 counties, and NCDOT maintains a directory plus a local search tool you can click by county or city. Keep the NCDOT information line 1‑877‑368‑4968 handy for help. (ncdot.gov)
- Free or reduced fares in big systems: Chapel Hill Transit is fare‑free on fixed routes and EZ Rider; GoDurham buses are fare‑free through June 2026; CATS in Charlotte offers fare‑capping that turns your purchases into a monthly pass once you hit $88. (townofchapelhill.org)
- Microtransit and on‑demand services: Wilson’s RIDE is $2.50 per trip inside city limits; many rural and small systems are adding microtransit with NCDOT’s Mobility for Everyone Everywhere initiative (MEE NC). Check your county’s site for local pilots. (wilsonnc.org)
Quick Fare and Access Highlights
| Area | What to know | Where to click |
|---|---|---|
| Durham | GoDurham is fare‑free through June 2026; check updates and service changes before you go. | GoDurham Fares & News |
| Chapel Hill/Carrboro/UNC | Fixed routes and EZ Rider are fare‑free; Park & Ride is low‑cost if you need parking. | Town of Chapel Hill Transit Fees |
| Charlotte (CATS) | Local one‑way is 2.20;fare‑cappingcreatesa2.20; fare‑capping creates a 88 monthly pass via CATS‑Pass app. | CATS Fares & Fare Capping |
| Triangle (Regional) | Youth GoPass and Umo fare benefits can make rides free or lower‑cost. | GoTriangle Fares & Caps |
| Wilson | Citywide RIDE microtransit is $2.50; call if you don’t use apps. | RIDE Wilson |
Notes: GoDurham’s fare‑free status is confirmed by the agency (extended through June 2026). Chapel Hill Transit shows fare‑free fixed routes and EZ Rider in Town fee schedules. CATS fare tables and the 88caparecurrentontheCATSsite.Wilson’sRIDElists88 cap are current on the CATS site. Wilson’s RIDE lists 2.50 fares on the city page. (godurhamtransit.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your system’s customer service and ask for “reduced fare” or “transit assistance” programs. If your city doesn’t have fixed‑route buses, your county’s rural transit may offer dial‑a‑ride under the state’s Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP)—check your county transit site’s ROAP notice. (icpta.net)
Get Help Paying for Gas, Bus Passes, and Short‑Term Work Rides
- Most important action: Ask NC Works about supportive services for transportation when you enroll in job search, training, or WIOA employment services. The NCWorks Veterans portal has a center locator, and local centers can issue gas cards or bus passes when funds allow. Pair this with county transit or microtransit. (veterans.ncworks.gov)
- If you receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS): More Than A Job NC (the new name for FNS E&T) is expanding statewide. Ask your DSS for a referral for training plus transportation help while you participate. (ncdhhs.gov)
- If you need 24/7 navigation: NC 211 specialists can search your zip code for agencies that distribute gas vouchers, Uber/Lyft codes, or bus passes — especially for interviews, first week of work, or medical visits. (nc211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Check faith‑based agencies (United Way partners; Salvation Army; Catholic Charities) via NC 211, and ask your child’s school social worker about small emergency funds for families. Back up plan: look into vanpools with your regional agency (like PART in the Triad) and split costs with coworkers. (nc211.org)
Low‑Cost Vehicles and Repairs You Can Actually Get in North Carolina
- Most important action: Apply through a partner agency for a program car if a reliable vehicle will stabilize your job and childcare. In the Triangle/Triad, Wheels4Hope places program cars for 500plustaxes/feeswitha6‑monthwarranty—partner‑agencyreferralrequired.InWesternNC,WorkingWheels’VehiclePurchaseProgramplacescarsfor500 plus taxes/fees with a 6‑month warranty — partner‑agency referral required. In Western NC, Working Wheels’ Vehicle Purchase Program places cars for 628 with a 3‑month/3,000‑mile warranty. Expect a waitlist. (wheels4hope.org)
- If you already have a car but repairs are blocking work: Working Wheels’ repair program can cover 90% of parts/labor (you pay up to $100) with a partner referral; typical turnaround is about 7–10 business days after intake and assessment. (workingwheelswnc.org)
- If you’re in Eastern NC or rural counties: Ask your DSS or workforce board if county ROAP funds include employment transportation rides or repair help. Counties publish annual ROAP notices and sometimes take public input before submitting to NCDOT. (icpta.net)
Program Car & Repair Snapshot
| Program | Where | Cost to recipient | How to qualify | Warranty/Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheels4Hope (Triangle & Triad) | Triangle/Triad | $500 + DMV taxes/fees | 4+ months active with partner agency; valid license; employed | 6‑month warranty; cars placed as available |
| Working Wheels (WNC) Purchase | Asheville/WNC | $628 | Active with partner; employed; NC license | 3 months/3,000‑mile warranty; 6–12 weeks typical wait |
| Working Wheels (WNC) Repairs | Asheville/WNC | 10% up to $100 | Partner referral; valid plate; employed/student/caregiver/disability/60+ | 7–10 business days typical repair time |
Sources: Wheels4Hope program details; Working Wheels purchase and repair pages (updated 2024–2025). Timelines depend on inventory and shop capacity — call to confirm current wait. (wheels4hope.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NC 211 to search for county‑level “vehicle repair assistance,” “employment transportation,” or “church benevolence funds.” If your license is suspended for old traffic debt, jump to the license restoration section below to clear holds before you invest in a car. (nc211.org)
How to Restore a Suspended License or Get an ID Without Fees
- Most important action: If your license is suspended for unpaid traffic debt, contact Legal Aid of North Carolina’s Second Chance Project and your local DA’s traffic debt relief program. Clinics run statewide (some through NCWorks centers), and Durham’s DEAR program assists county residents directly. (legalaidnc.org)
- If you need a state ID to work or ride: North Carolina issues a no‑fee ID to people experiencing homelessness with a letter from a shelter or care facility. Bring your identity and residency proofs to DMV; see accepted documents on the DMV site. (ncdot.gov)
- If you’re a veteran: Use VA Beneficiary Travel for mileage or transit reimbursement to VA care and ask about DAV van rides to VA medical centers like Salisbury and Fayetteville. Claims must be filed within 30 days. (va.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the NC Justice Center for their driver’s license restoration toolkit and county‑level efforts to remit traffic debt; check the DA’s website or call the clerk of court to ask about “mass relief” sessions. (ncjustice.org)
Child Car Seats — Free Checks and Sometimes Free Seats
- Most important action: Get your seats checked (and replaced if eligible) through Safe Kids North Carolina and the Office of State Fire Marshal. They run free clinics statewide and sometimes provide free car seats (when supplies allow), including special events after storms. (ncosfm.gov)
- Where to go: Use Safe Kids NC to find local coalitions and permanent checking stations; see BuckleUpNC for station maps, and ask about diversion programs if you received a child passenger safety ticket. (ncosfm.gov)
- What to bring: Your child and your vehicle, if possible, so technicians can fit the seat correctly and teach you the 1‑inch movement rule and harness placement. Events list phone contacts — call ahead to confirm inventory and times. (ncosfm.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your pediatric clinic or hospital injury‑prevention office; many partner with Safe Kids NC and may have limited seats for low‑income families after a safety check. (ncosfm.gov)
Reality Check — What Slows Things Down and How to Work Around It
- Funding runs out: City fare‑free pilots (like GoDurham) depend on budget votes. Always check the agency’s site before you go, especially near July 1 each year. If fares resume, ask about Umo discount codes or Youth/Senior benefits. (godurhamtransit.org)
- NEMT requires planning: Two business days is the minimum for managed care, four for Medicaid Direct; holidays and weather can add delays. Ask your clinic to send a “standing order” for recurring appointments. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- Program cars take patience: Vehicle inventory is tight; Working Wheels lists 6–12 weeks typical. Keep your case manager engaged and your phone on for quick placement calls. (workingwheelswnc.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Topic | The fastest first call or click | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid medical ride | NC Medicaid NEMT page | Call 2 days ahead (4 for Medicaid Direct); urgent pharmacy OK without notice. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov) |
| Transit near me | NCDOT Local Transit Search | Transit in all 100 counties. (ncdot.gov) |
| Durham fares | GoDurham fares/news | Fare‑free through June 2026. (godurhamtransit.org) |
| Charlotte fares | CATS Fares & Passes | $88 cap via app. (charlottenc.gov) |
| Wilson microtransit | RIDE Wilson | $2.50 citywide. (wilsonnc.org) |
| Program cars | Wheels4Hope Apply | $500 program cars (Triangle/Triad). (wheels4hope.org) |
| Program cars WNC | Working Wheels Purchase | $628 (WNC), 6–12 weeks typical. (workingwheelswnc.org) |
| License/ID | NCDMV No‑fee ID | Free ID with shelter letter. (ncdot.gov) |
| 24/7 help | NC 211 | Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑892‑1162. (nc211.org) |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID (or shelter letter for no‑fee ID) and Medicaid or health plan card.
- Proof of appointment (date, time, location) for NEMT rides, or job/training schedule for work transportation help.
- Income proof (pay stubs) if asked for reduced fares or supportive services.
- Driver’s license (for program car), or license restoration plan if suspended.
- Childcare plan and backup contact in case of late buses or ride cancellations.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Book Medicaid Rides That Show Up
- Find your plan card and call the NEMT number. If you’re NC Medicaid Direct, call your county DSS transportation line.
- Ask for the earliest appointment pickup that matches your medical time; tell them you have kids and need a narrow pickup window if possible.
- Call the day before to confirm your pickup time and driver contact. Ask for a text alert if they offer it.
- If the driver is 15 minutes late, call the broker back, and ask for a new ETA or a backup vehicle.
- File a quick complaint if the ride is no‑show — it documents patterns and gets attention. Then ask your provider to request a standing order for recurring trips.
What to expect: NC Medicaid says request rides at least 2 days ahead (4 for Medicaid Direct); urgent trips can be same day. Keep a simple ride log in your phone (date, time, names). (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
Charlotte Bus Pass Help — How to Lower Costs on CATS
The fastest savings is the fare‑capping feature in the CATS‑Pass app — once your purchases reach $88 in a month, your wallet upgrades to a monthly pass automatically for local bus and rail the rest of that month. For cash users, load cash at the Transit Center to take advantage of capping. Check CATS for discounts and paratransit rules. (charlottenc.gov)
- Use the CATS site for current fares and pass types, and confirm any express fare differences before you transfer from local routes or micro. Keep the “Mobile Apps” page bookmarked to troubleshoot the app. (charlottenc.gov)
- For ADA paratransit (STS), buy tickets or a monthly pass in advance — drivers can’t take cash. The STS page lists purchase options and the ADA application path. (charlottenc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your NC Works center about monthly pass support while you’re in training or job search, and check GoTriangle’s Umo discount programs if you commute regionally. (veterans.ncworks.gov)
Triangle Transit Tips — Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill
- Durham: GoDurham is fare‑free through June 2026. If funding changes, the agency will post updates first — check before you ride. (godurhamtransit.org)
- Chapel Hill/Carrboro: Fare‑free fixed route and EZ Rider, with low‑cost Park & Ride permits. This reduces total commute cost if you must drive part of the way. (townofchapelhill.org)
- Regional: GoTriangle uses Umo with fare capping and “Transit Assistance Pass” benefits. Teens 13–18 can ride free with a Youth GoPass. Seniors and some riders with disabilities qualify for free or discounted options. (gotriangle.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use NC 211 to search for churches and nonprofits that provide short‑term passes for interviews or first days of work; ask your caseworker to verify your start date. (nc211.org)
Triad Vanpool and Commuter Savings — Greensboro, Winston‑Salem, High Point
- Most important action: Check PART (Triad regional) for vanpools and commuter buses. Vanpools can be cheaper than gas and parking if you commute 15+ miles. Use PART’s trip tools to find a seat and split costs with neighbors. (Note: verify current fares directly with PART, as fares change.) (apta.com)
- Greensboro/Winston‑Salem city routes: Combine city passes with PART transfers if you work across city lines. If you’re new to bus travel, ask customer service to help plan and save.
- Working nights? Check whether your route runs late — if not, ask your employer about shift changes or telework for part of the week.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Check with NC Works about a gas card while you test a vanpool; sometimes a small one‑time card bridges the first month. (veterans.ncworks.gov)
Wilmington & Coast — Microtransit Pilots and Wave Transit
- Most important action: Look for RideMICRO pilots in Brunswick/New Hanover/Pender, and Wave Transit passes if you’re inside Wilmington. Microtransit fills gaps where fixed routes don’t reach; book on apps or by phone if you don’t use smartphones. NCDOT’s microtransit page tracks pilots statewide. (ncdot.gov)
- Plan B: If service boundaries don’t cover your shift, ask your supervisor about changing start times to match ride windows.
Asheville & Western NC — When Mountains Make Buses Hard
- Most important action: Use Working Wheels if your job or school is across mountain gaps where buses don’t reach. Their purchase and repair programs are designed for working families and can be the difference between missing shifts and getting steady hours. (workingwheelswnc.org)
- Transit mix: Explore county transit dial‑a‑ride in neighboring counties; many are part of NCDOT’s rural systems and publish schedules through the NCDOT directory. (ncdot.gov)
Northeastern Coastal & Albemarle — Longer Distances, Different Solutions
- Most important action: Use your regional transit authority (for example, ICPTA in the Albemarle) and check your county’s ROAP notice for Employment Transportation and Rural General Public rides. These funds help non‑urban trips to jobs, training, and childcare. (icpta.net)
- Plan B: If your county only runs weekdays, coordinate with your supervisor for day shifts while you build savings for a car through a program like Wheels4Hope (Triangle/Triad) or look at a cheap used car once your license is cleared. (wheels4hope.org)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in North Carolina Today
Transportation and utilities go together — if your phone is shut off, you can’t use your transit app or get NEMT pickup texts. Before a cutoff date, call your utility to set up a payment plan and then contact NC 211 to ask for “utility assistance,” “LIHEAP referral,” or “crisis funds” in your county; ask your DSS about emergency assistance through Work First if you have minor children. LIHEAP may be seasonal, so verify dates and waitlists. (nc211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker to write a short verification letter for your employer explaining a temporary utility disruption so you can get a schedule accommodation for a week while funds are processed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until the day of your appointment to book Medicaid rides — many plans require at least 2 business days; Medicaid Direct needs 4. Urgent pharmacy is different; ask right away. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- Assuming fare‑free will last forever — budgets can change. Always check the transit agency site the week you ride. (godurhamtransit.org)
- Skipping license restoration before buying a car — you risk impound and more fines. Use Legal Aid clinics or DA relief days to clear traffic debt first. (legalaidnc.org)
- Not asking for “supportive services” by name at NC Works — those are the funds that cover bus passes and gas cards during training/job search. (veterans.ncworks.gov)
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Medicaid ride denied: Ask for the reason in writing; appeal or file a grievance with your plan; then call the NC Medicaid Ombudsman. Keep ride logs and appointment notices. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- Program car waitlisted/denied: Ask your case manager to re‑submit when you’ve hit the 4‑month program mark (Wheels4Hope) or update employment verification (Working Wheels). Keep insurance quotes ready. (wheels4hope.org)
- Supportive services denied: Ask your NC Works counselor about other pots (WIOA youth/adult/dislocated worker, partner discretionary funds) or a short‑term deferral while you secure transportation. (veterans.ncworks.gov)
What Work First (TANF) Can Do for Transportation
- Most important action: Ask your county DSS about Work First Benefit Diversion or Emergency Assistance if a one‑time cash payment will keep you working — many counties cover transportation‑to‑work, short‑term child care, and fees that block employment. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Work First has set benefit amounts, and services may be offered even if you don’t take monthly cash. Some counties are “electing” counties with more flexibility in program design — ask how your county handles transportation. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Plan B: If Work First isn’t available or has waitlists, ask More Than A Job NC (FNS E&T) for training‑related transportation support while you work toward a better job. (ncdhhs.gov)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for name/ID help through Legal Aid’s Second Chance clinics and check DMV’s ID rules so your documents match your employment and childcare forms. Many city transit agencies offer language access and inclusive ID policies in the Umo app. Pair these with NC 211’s LGBTQ+ friendly listings. (legalaidnc.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Use NC Medicaid NEMT for medical rides; for work, call Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD) for transportation supports while in vocational rehab. If you ride GoTriangle ACCESS among Wake/Durham/Orange, check free fare options for ADA riders with SNAP/Medicaid or low income. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: File VA Beneficiary Travel within 30 days for mileage or bus fare back to VA care; if you need a ride to the VA, ask the DAV Transportation Network at your nearest VA medical center (e.g., Salisbury, Fayetteville). (va.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Use your resettlement agency for bus orientation and travel funds in the first months. For licenses and IDs, review DMV legal‑presence and real‑ID rules; for language access, request interpreters through your health plan and transit agency customer service. (ncdot.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re enrolled with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Tribal Option, Medicaid ride requests go through your local DSS under Medicaid Direct; check tribal health clinic coordinators for shuttle options. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- Rural single moms: Dial‑a‑ride is your friend. Use NCDOT’s local transit search for your county’s request‑ahead service, and ask about the Rural Operating Assistance Program buckets — Employment Transportation and Rural General Public — for trips to work, school, and essential errands. (ncdot.gov)
- Single fathers: The same programs apply — Work First services and More Than A Job NC do not exclude dads; contact DSS or NC Works and ask for supportive services for transportation. (ncdhhs.gov)
- Language access: NC 211 offers most languages; Medicaid plans provide free interpreters for ride scheduling; many transit sites have Spanish pages or app options. Save interpreter requests in your plan profile so they appear on ride bookings. (nc211.org)
Resources by Region
- Charlotte/Mecklenburg: Find CATS fare tables and fare‑capping details, then ask NC Works Charlotte for a pass if you’re in training. Consider CATS Micro service zones if fixed‑route doesn’t reach your job. (charlottenc.gov)
- Triangle (Wake/Durham/Orange): Use GoDurham (fare‑free through June 2026), GoTriangle Umo discounts, and Chapel Hill Transit fare‑free network. Pair with Youth GoPass for teens. (godurhamtransit.org)
- Triad (Guilford/Forsyth/Alamance/etc.): Check PART for vanpools and regional routes; verify city bus links via APTA’s North Carolina links. (apta.com)
- Wilmington/Coastal counties: Look for RideMICRO pilots via NCDOT’s microtransit page and pair with Wave Transit passes where available. (ncdot.gov)
- Western NC (Buncombe and neighbors): Working Wheels is your go‑to for purchase/repair help; county transit through NCDOT’s directory covers essential trips. (workingwheelswnc.org)
County‑Specific Variations That Matter
- Work First “electing counties” — Beaufort, Caldwell, Catawba, Lenoir, Lincoln, Macon, and Wilson — have added flexibility in services and may tailor transportation help. Always ask your county DSS how they fund rides or repairs under Work First services even if you don’t need monthly cash. (ncdhhs.gov)
- ROAP sub‑allocations vary by county and year; for example, some counties publicly notice their ROAP totals (EDTAP, Employment, RGP) and take comments. Watch your county transit site each fall. (icpta.net)
Tables You Can Use
Table — Key Phone Numbers
| Program | Phone | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| NC 211 (United Way) | 1‑888‑892‑1162 | 24/7 resource line and web search. (nc211.org) |
| NC Medicaid Enrollment Broker | 1‑833‑870‑5500 | Find your plan and ride line. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov) |
| NC Medicaid Ombudsman | 1‑877‑201‑3750 | Help with Medicaid ride issues. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov) |
| NCDOT Info Line | 1‑877‑368‑4968 | Help finding local transit. (ncdot.gov) |
| Durham VA Beneficiary Travel | See VA contact page (dial main) | Ask for Beneficiary Travel office. (va.gov) |
Table — Popular Transit Benefits
| Agency | Benefit | Who qualifies | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoDurham | Fare‑free through June 2026 | Everyone | GoDurham News (godurhamtransit.org) |
| Chapel Hill Transit | Fare‑free fixed routes | Everyone | CHT Fees (townofchapelhill.org) |
| CATS | $88 fare‑capping to monthly pass | Frequent riders | CATS Fare Capping (charlottenc.gov) |
| GoTriangle | Youth GoPass; Umo caps | Youth/Seniors/eligible riders | GoTriangle Fares (gotriangle.org) |
| Wilson RIDE | $2.50 on‑demand | City of Wilson | RIDE Wilson (wilsonnc.org) |
Table — Program Cars & Repairs
| Program | Area | Cost | Warranty | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheels4Hope | Triangle/Triad | $500 + fees | 6 months | Apply via Partner (wheels4hope.org) |
| Working Wheels Purchase | Western NC | $628 | 3 mo/3k mi | Purchase Program (workingwheelswnc.org) |
| Working Wheels Repairs | Western NC | 10% up to $100 | N/A | Repair Program (workingwheelswnc.org) |
Table — Medicaid Ride Timing
| Ride type | When to ask | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Managed care NEMT | ≥ 2 business days | Pharmacy/hospital urgent trips OK same‑day |
| NC Medicaid Direct | ≥ 4 business days | Call county DSS |
| Recurring care | Ask for standing order | Clinic/provider can help fax |
Source: NC Medicaid NEMT (updated July 2025). (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
Table — ID & License Help
| Need | Where | Details |
|---|---|---|
| No‑fee ID (homeless) | DMV State IDs | Shelter letter required; see acceptable docs. (ncdot.gov) |
| License restoration | Legal Aid/DA clinics | Second Chance Project and county relief events. (legalaidnc.org) |
| VA travel pay | VA BTSSS | File within 30 days; online or VA Form 10‑3542. (va.gov) |
Troubleshooting: Real‑World Examples
- Your child is sick; pharmacy is closing: Call your Medicaid plan’s NEMT number and request an urgent pharmacy pickup. If they balk, point to the NEMT policy allowing urgent pickups. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- Your GoDurham ride was supposed to be free, but the driver asked for fare: Politely pay if you can and keep the pass; then report the incident and ask for a refund or note on your account. Check the GoDurham fares page to confirm current policy before your next ride. (godurhamtransit.org)
- You were late to work because microtransit was full: Screenshot the app denial, email your supervisor, and ask to shift your start time to guaranteed transit hours. Meanwhile, ask NC Works for a gas card while you explore carpool or vanpool options.
10 North Carolina FAQs (Detailed)
- How soon can I get a Medicaid ride if I’m discharged today?
Ask your plan immediately — urgent hospital discharges don’t require advance notice. If you don’t know your plan, call the Enrollment Broker for help the same day. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov) - Can I get money back if a friend drives me to my appointment?
Yes, plans can reimburse mileage if approved — call your plan or DSS (Medicaid Direct) before the trip and ask how to submit miles. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov) - Is GoDurham really free right now?
Yes, as of mid‑2025, GoDurham remains fare‑free through June 2026. Always check the agency’s site in case of budget changes. (godurhamtransit.org) - **How do I keep my monthly transit costs under 90inCharlotte∗∗?UsetheCATS‑Passapp—onceyouhit90 in Charlotte**? Use the CATS‑Pass app — once you hit 88 in local fares in a month, you ride free on local bus/rail the rest of the month. (charlottenc.gov)
- What microtransit options exist outside Wilson?
NCDOT backs on‑demand pilots across the state (e.g., RideMICRO on the coast). Check NCDOT’s microtransit page and your county’s system. (ncdot.gov) - Can Work First pay for transportation without giving me monthly cash?
Yes — counties can provide services like transportation‑to‑work or short training costs even if you don’t receive ongoing cash aid. Ask your county DSS Work First unit. (ncdhhs.gov) - What if I need a car seat and can’t afford one?
Safe Kids NC often runs free clinics and sometimes provides seats at events; many counties have permanent checking stations and special distributions after disasters. (ncosfm.gov) - How long to get a Working Wheels car?
Typical placement is 6–12 weeks after acceptance, depending on inventory; attend orientation and have insurance money ready to move fast when a car becomes available. (workingwheelswnc.org) - How do I get a state ID if I’m in shelter?
NC DMV issues a free ID with a letter from a shelter/care provider verifying homelessness; bring identity/residency documents listed on the DMV site. (ncdot.gov) - Can FNS (food stamps) help with transportation to training?
Yes — the program formerly called FNS E&T is now More Than A Job NC, expanding services statewide through DSS and partner colleges. Ask your caseworker for a referral. (ncdhhs.gov)
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta sección se preparó con herramientas de traducción asistida por IA. Para confirmar detalles, use siempre las páginas oficiales enlazadas.
- Medicaid transporte médico: programe con 2 días de anticipación (4 días si está en Medicaid Direct del estado); viajes urgentes a farmacia o alta hospitalaria no requieren aviso. Enlace y teléfonos en la página NEMT. (medicaid.ncdhhs.gov)
- En Durham los autobuses de GoDurham son gratis hasta junio de 2026; Chapel Hill Transit también es gratis; en Charlotte, el tope de tarifas convierte $88 en un pase mensual a través de la app CATS‑Pass. Verifique los sitios antes de viajar. (godurhamtransit.org)
- Para ayuda con gasolina o pases, llame a NC 211 (2‑1‑1 o 1‑888‑892‑1162) o pida servicios de apoyo en su Centro de NC Works durante formación o búsqueda de empleo. (nc211.org)
- Programas de autos: Wheels4Hope (Triángulo/Triad) coloca autos por 500;WorkingWheels(Asheville/WNC)colocapor500; Working Wheels (Asheville/WNC) coloca por 628 y repara con copago de $100 máximo. Se requiere referencia de una agencia. (wheels4hope.org)
- Identificación estatal sin costo: el DMV de NC ofrece ID gratis con carta del refugio; vea requisitos en la página oficial. (ncdot.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- NC Medicaid — Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation
- NCDOT — N.C. Public Transit Systems & Local Transit Search
- GoDurham Fares/Announcements
- Town of Chapel Hill — Transit Fee Schedule
- CATS — Fares & Fare Capping
- RIDE Wilson — City of Wilson
- Wheels4Hope — Apply and Working Wheels — Purchase/Repair
- NCDMV — State IDs (No‑Fee ID for Homeless)
- NC 211 — United Way of North Carolina
- NC DHHS — Work First; More Than A Job NC
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Benefits and fares change with funding and policy updates. Always verify with the official agency or transit system before applying or traveling. Call to confirm current availability before applying. Funding amounts and timelines vary by county and program.
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