Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas
Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas
Last updated: September 2025
If you need a ride for work, medical care, or your kids’ needs, Arkansas has real options. This guide highlights what works fastest, who to call, and how to avoid denials. You’ll find emergency steps, quick contacts, how-to instructions for Medicaid rides, bus passes, gas help, car repair programs, and legal and veteran options. Throughout, look for links to official agencies like Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), and Arkansas Division of Workforce Services (DWS) so you can act today.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call for a free Medicaid ride if you have Arkansas Medicaid: Use the NET helpline at 1-888-987-1200 (Option 1). Have your Medicaid ID, address, and appointment time ready, and ask for “urgent medical” if your doctor says you must be seen soon. Learn how NET works through DHS NET and AFMC’s Medicaid NET page, and review AFMC’s program details.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Grab a same-day local transit option: In Little Rock/North Little Rock, ride Rock Region METRO or its on-demand microtransit METRO Connect by phone at 1-501-476-3761; in Northwest Arkansas, try $1.25 Ozark Regional Transit On‑Demand; in Fort Smith, check Fort Smith Transit fares.
(rrmetro.org) - Call 2‑1‑1 for local help with gas cards or bus passes: Ask about “Ride United” and transit vouchers near you. Use Arkansas 211 for multilingual support and textable referrals; check the toolkit for flyers and the “How it works” page for language access and TTY.
(211arkansas.org)
Quick Help Box: Key Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Medicaid NET rides: 1-888-987-1200 (Option 1). Read DHS NET rules and the AFMC NET guide. Check AFMC’s program briefs.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Little Rock area transit: Rock Region METRO fares; microtransit dispatch 1-501-476-3761 via METRO Connect; paratransit scheduling 1-501-375-6717 through METRO Links.
(rrmetro.org) - Northwest Arkansas: $1.25 ORT On‑Demand; student routes alongside Razorback Transit; regional planning info at NWARPC via ARDOT’s related links page.
(ozark.org) - Work/Training supportive services: Ask DWS about WIOA transportation help at Jobseeker services; SNAP E&T reimbursement info in Arkansas’ plan portal; campus gas card support through Career Pathways.
(dws.arkansas.gov) - Veterans rides and mileage reimbursement: Call your VA facility or the Beneficiary Travel call center 1-855-574-7292; check VA travel pay rates and CAVHS DAV van info.
(va.gov)
How to Use This Guide
You’ll see each program’s fastest action, eligibility, documents, “how to apply,” and Plan B. Where rules or prices change often, call first and use the official links. For local rides, check your area’s transit agency page and ARDOT’s statewide transit links for updated schedules. Use Arkansas DHS, ARDOT Public Transportation, and Arkansas 211 to confirm availability.
(ardot.gov)
How to Get a Medicaid Ride in Arkansas Today
The fastest medical ride for many single moms is the Medicaid Non‑Emergency Transportation (NET) program. If you have Medicaid (including ARKids First‑A), you can schedule free rides to covered appointments. Use the NET Helpline at 1-888-987-1200 (Option 1); learn the rules on DHS’s NET page; and read AFMC’s NET guide.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Who qualifies: You must have Medicaid or ARKids First‑A, no other way to get to care, and the visit must be Medicaid‑covered. ARKids First‑B does not include NET. See DHS eligibility rules and AFMC NET FAQs. For help, contact DHS County Offices to verify coverage.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - When to call: Call at least 48 hours (two business days) before your appointment; doctors can mark “urgent” for same‑day needs. Scheduling windows and the 15‑minute wait rule are listed on DHS NET and AFMC NET.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Brokers by region: DHS anticipates multiple brokers statewide (e.g., Verida, MediTrans, CADC/SCAT, SEAT, ModivCare) for seven regions; always use your region’s listed contact. Check DHS’s 2025 procurement updates under Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation Services and the prior bid solicitation notices for current awardees.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - What rides include: Covered trips to Medicaid‑enrolled providers, some dialysis/radiation/chemo pickups without the 48‑hour notice, and referral‑approved out‑of‑region specialty care. See AFMC NET policy and DHS NET rules and call to confirm.
(medicaid.afmc.org) - How to schedule (step‑by‑step):
- Call 1-888-987-1200 (Option 1). Keep your Medicaid ID, pick‑up address, appointment time, and provider info ready. Use DHS NET for details and AFMC if you need help identifying your broker.
- Ask for a “standing order” if your child has weekly therapy or you have recurring care. Check AFMC NET FAQs for recurring rides guidance.
- If your ride is late or no‑show, call the broker and then the NET Helpline; see escalation steps on DHS NET and AFMC’s contact info.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider to mark “urgent,” request a supervisor callback at the broker, and file an issue with AFMC Beneficiary Relations; call your DHS County Office to verify Medicaid eligibility; and use Arkansas 211 to find local rides today.
(afmc.org)
Medicaid NET at a Glance
| Program detail | Key info | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Medicaid/ARKids A, no other ride, Medicaid‑covered service | DHS NET |
| When to request | 48 business hours ahead; urgent rides possible with provider call | DHS NET |
| Cost | No co‑pay or mileage cap (traditional Medicaid); ARHOME may have leg/unit limits | AFMC NET details |
| Helpline | 1-888-987-1200 (Option 1) | AFMC |
How to Get a Bus Pass or On‑Demand Ride in Your City
Public transit is often the fastest same‑day move. Confirm fares and hours using each agency’s official page, then buy mobile passes when possible. For statewide links, use ARDOT’s Public Transportation Related Links list, the Arkansas Transit Association agency directory and Arkansas 211 to find assistance with passes.
(ardot.gov)
Little Rock/North Little Rock – Rock Region METRO: Fares, Passes, and On‑Demand
Start with Rock Region METRO fares (adult 1.35one‑way;1.35 one‑way; 3.75 day pass; $36 31‑day), and ride the fare‑free METRO Streetcar between downtowns. If you need door‑to‑zone pickup, use METRO Connect via app or call 1-501-476-3761; if you need ADA paratransit, schedule METRO Links at 1-501-375-6717.
(rrmetro.org)
- Mobile tip: You can send a pass to your own or a teen’s phone with Token Transit via RR METRO’s online store; check the app center for updates; keep an eye on official fares guidance for discounts.
(rrmetro.org) - What to do if this doesn’t work: Call dispatch for ride scheduling and ask about a “courtesy hold,” search Arkansas 211 for pass assistance, or contact your DHS County Office to see if TEA/Work Supports can cover a pass.
(211arkansas.org)
Northwest Arkansas – ORT On‑Demand and Razorback Transit
Use Ozark Regional Transit On‑Demand in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville for $1.25 per rider per trip; for campus‑area, fare‑free rides use Razorback Transit and check real‑time info on the Passio GO! links on Transit Services; for regional planning updates see ARDOT links to rural/urban agencies.
(ozark.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask ORT about zones and hours under “On‑Demand,” use Arkansas 211 for gas cards if transit stops early, and check DWS Workforce Centers for transportation help tied to training.
(211arkansas.org)
Fort Smith – Fixed Routes and Paratransit
Fort Smith fixed‑route is 1.25;paratransitis1.25; paratransit is 2.50 each way; monthly passes $35 according to the city’s Fare & Passes page. Read rider tips in the city’s guide; use ARDOT’s links for wider region providers.
(fortsmithar.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the transit office for reduced fare eligibility, dial Arkansas 211 for charity help, and ask DWS if WIOA can cover a pass for training days.
(211arkansas.org)
Pine Bluff – City Routes and Passes
Pine Bluff lists 1.00fullfare,1.00 full fare, 0.80 student, $0.50 senior/disabled, with discounted 10‑ride passes on the Transit Fare Schedule; contact Transit at 1-870-543-5130 via Transit home page; for rural Southeast Arkansas, check SEAT for non‑emergency rides.
(cityofpinebluff-ar.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Sign up for text alerts, call Arkansas 211 about pass help, and ask DHS TEA about work‑activity transportation support.
(cityofpinebluff-ar.gov)
Jonesboro – JET Fixed Routes and Paratransit
JET fixed‑route shows 1.25adult,1.25 adult, 0.60 senior/disabled, with $3.75 day passes on the JET fares page; apply for paratransit at 1-870-935-5387; use the JET app portal for real‑time arrivals.
(jonesboro.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If winter weather limits routes, check JPD non‑emergency for warming center rides per local alerts, use Arkansas 211 for emergency ride referrals, and ask campus offices about free A‑State routes on A‑State pages.
(jonesbororightnow.com)
Texarkana – T‑Line (AR/TX Border)
T‑Line one‑way is 1.25;monthlypasses1.25; monthly passes 40 adult, with 20reducedoptions;ADAparatransit20 reduced options; ADA paratransit 2.50, per T‑Line fare prices. Visit T‑Line routes and call 1-903-794-8883 for schedule help; verify regional links through ARDOT’s related links list.
(t-linebus.org)
Hot Springs – Intracity Transit and Paratransit
Hot Springs Intracity Transit information and rider rules appear on the city’s Intracity Transit page; ADA paratransit details and hours are posted via city resources and disability directories; call (501) 321‑6625 for ADA paratransit requests, and verify with local transit staff. Use ARDOT’s state transit links for additional contacts.
(cityhs.net)
North Arkansas – NATS (Harrison, Mountain Home, and surrounding counties)
North Arkansas Transportation Service (NATS) offers demand‑response rides across multiple north counties; see service areas on the NATS site and regional postings with NWAEDD transportation notices; call 1-870-741-8008 or 1-870-425-6989 depending on your county for scheduling.
(ridewithnats.org)
Public Transit at a Glance (Major Arkansas Systems)
| Area | Agency | Typical fare | Paratransit | Where to check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Rock / NLR | Rock Region METRO | 1.35fixed;day1.35 fixed; day 3.75; 31‑day $36 | METRO Links $2.70 | Fares |
| NWA (Fay/Spr/Rog/Bent) | Ozark Regional Transit | $1.25 on‑demand | ADA paratransit | ORT On‑Demand |
| Fort Smith | Fort Smith Transit | 1.25fixed;paratransit1.25 fixed; paratransit 2.50; monthly $35 | Yes | Fares |
| Pine Bluff | Pine Bluff Transit | $1.00 full; discounts available | Yes | Fare schedule |
| Jonesboro | JET | 1.25adult;day1.25 adult; day 3.75 | $2.50 | JET info |
| Texarkana | T‑Line | 1.25fixed;monthly1.25 fixed; monthly 40 | $2.50 | T‑Line fares |
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Use Arkansas 211 to search “transportation vouchers,” call your DWS Workforce Center for WIOA supportive services, and ask your college’s Career Pathways office about gas cards.
(dws.arkansas.gov)
Employment, Training, and College Programs That Can Pay for Transportation
These options help with gas, passes, repairs, and sometimes tires or batteries when tied to work or training. Always ask your case manager about caps and timelines.
- SNAP Employment & Training (E&T): Arkansas’ plan lists up to $900 annually for participant reimbursements, including transportation and other allowable costs. Past manuals showed monthly caps, but the current combined plan lists annual caps—verify with your E&T provider. Review Arkansas’ 2024–2027 plan details, read historical policy notes in prior E&T plan, and confirm with DHS policy page or your county office.
(wioaplans.ed.gov) - WIOA supportive services (through DWS Workforce Centers): Ask for help with bus passes, gas, or short‑term car repairs when required for an approved training plan. Start at Jobseeker services and find your nearest Workforce Center; preview the WIOA Title I policy manual.
(dws.arkansas.gov) - Career Pathways Initiative (for parents in college): Many campuses offer gas vouchers and bus passes for eligible parents (often tied to Pell or income up to 250% FPL). See UA‑PTC’s benefits list, Arkansas Tech‑Ozark’s fuel assistance note, and ANC’s policy noting up to $200/month gas vouchers (subject to funding).
(uaptc.edu) - TEA/Work Pays (TANF in Arkansas): TEA includes transportation support while you complete required work activities; if your TEA case closes due to employment, you may get an “Extended Support Transportation” benefit—$200 per month for two months—to help stabilize work. See the state rules at LII’s TEA policy 5140 and the Secretary of State rules list for TEA transportation payments.
(law.cornell.edu) - What to do if this doesn’t work: If a benefit is out of funds, ask for bus passes through your case manager, check campus emergency aid, call Arkansas 211 for church gas cards, and ask your city transit if they have temporary discount pilots or sponsored passes listed by Arkansas Transit Association members.
(211arkansas.org)
Quick Table: Employment and School Programs That Can Pay for Rides
| Program | Who it helps | Typical transportation help | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP E&T | SNAP participants in components | Reimbursements up to $900/yr (transport + other) | E&T plan details |
| WIOA | Jobseekers in approved training | Passes, gas, limited repairs (local policy) | Jobseeker services |
| Career Pathways | Parents in college | Gas cards, bus passes (varies by campus) | UA‑PTC CPI |
| TEA/Work Pays | Families on/after TEA | Transportation during TEA; $200 x 2 months after work close | TEA policy |
Car Help: Gas, Repairs, Tires, and Reinstatement
Car costs can block work and child‑care pickups. Combine local charity aid, training program supports, and state options.
- Gas and short‑term help: Ask Arkansas 211 about gas cards and “Ride United” in your county; check Career Pathways for gas during class; and ask DWS about WIOA supportive services tied to training days.
(211arkansas.org) - Repairs/tires: SNAP E&T and WIOA sometimes cover job‑critical repairs. Confirm caps with your E&T provider via the plan portal; ask your Workforce Center if limited repair funds are available; and call Arkansas 211 for local church funds.
(wioaplans.ed.gov) - Driver’s license reinstatement: Use DFA’s Driver Services page and online reinstatement fee payment tools; get guidance from Driver Control (DWI reinstatement fee $150; permit options vary); and ask about restricted driving permits under Arkansas Code §5‑65‑120.
(dfa.arkansas.gov) - What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reinstate yet, plan a mixed commute: bus + microtransit + occasional Lyft/Uber reimbursed by WIOA or SNAP E&T; ask your caseworker about short‑term taxi reimbursement; and keep a low‑cost transit backup using Rock Region METRO or ORT On‑Demand.
(dws.arkansas.gov)
Medical, Legal, and Veterans Transportation
- VA Beneficiary Travel (mileage reimbursement): Eligible veterans can get $0.415 per mile and certain travel costs reimbursed; file within 30 days using VA travel pay and verify rates at VA’s mileage page; call 1-855-574-7292 with questions.
(va.gov) - DAV/VA van routes: Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System coordinates county DAV routes; call 1-501-257-6991; see routing examples on CAVHS DAV van page; combine with T‑Line or RR METRO when needed.
(va.gov) - Domestic violence safety rides: Shelters can coordinate emergency transport to court or safe housing. Find providers via Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence; check state grants backbone at DFA’s DV Shelter Fund and OVW’s coalition awards list.
(domesticpeace.com) - What to do if this doesn’t work: For veteran rides, ask your county VA officer and local DAV chapter; for DV cases, call your local shelter from the ACADV map and request a cab voucher or staff transport; if denied, call Arkansas 211 for emergency transport listings.
(domesticpeace.com)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
- Arkansas 211 network: Use Arkansas 211 to find gas cards, bus passes, and “Ride United” options; agencies can list services under the professionals page; download flyers from the toolkit to bring to your school or shelter.
(211arkansas.org) - Catholic Charities & parish St. Vincent de Paul: Contact Catholic Charities of Arkansas at 1-501-664-0340; use the “Here to Help You” page to find local aid; ask parishes about small-dollar gas help; and combine with DHS County Offices for TEA‑linked support.
(dolr.org) - Transit associations and planning orgs: ATA’s agency list can connect you to each system’s customer service; Metroplan covers Central Arkansas planning; and ARDOT’s Public Transportation links catalog rural/urban operators.
(arkansastransit.com) - What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Arkansas 211 for two more nearby agencies, ask about “limited assistance” even if posted funds are out, and request staff check “warm handoffs” to a live contact at a partner organization.
(211arkansas.org)
Diverse Communities: What Changes and Who to Call
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your transit agency about name updates and fare ID records; verify ADA paratransit confidentiality via METRO Links policy; use Arkansas 211 for shelters that offer affirming services; request case‑managed transportation through WIOA if you’re in training.
(rrmetro.org) - Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) about help, including vehicle modifications or driver training; explore Centers for Independent Living such as SOURCES in NWA; confirm ADA paratransit eligibility using METRO Links or your local ADA program.
(dws.arkansas.gov) - Veteran single mothers: Combine VA travel pay and DAV van routes from CAVHS with city transit like Rock Region METRO; bring your DD‑214 to DWS for veteran‑priority WIOA services.
(va.gov) - Immigrant/refugee single moms: Ask Catholic Charities Immigration Services for guidance, request interpreters through Arkansas 211 or your DHS County Office (TTY listed), and use NET rides for Medicaid‑covered visits.
(dolr.org) - Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a tribal citizen living in Arkansas, ask your tribe’s health system about transport to IHS‑referred care; coordinate with VA if you’re also a veteran; and keep a local backup using RR METRO or ORT. For state program coordination, confirm eligibility via DHS and ARDOT transit links.
(ardot.gov) - Rural single moms with limited access: Use regional systems like NATS or SEAT; if rides fill up, ask your Workforce Center about gas reimbursements under WIOA; and ask SNAP about annual transportation caps via the E&T plan.
(ridewithnats.org) - Single fathers: Most programs are gender‑neutral. TEA/Work Pays supports the adult caregiver on the case; confirm eligibility via TEA program page or county offices on DHS’s map; ask DWS for transport support while job‑seeking.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Language access and accessibility notes: Request TTY and interpreter services via Access Arkansas help lines; ask METRO Links for large‑print (12pt/18pt) applications and Spanish; use Arkansas 211 in 150+ languages.
(access.arkansas.gov)
Resources by Region
- Central Arkansas (Pulaski/Saline/Faulkner): Use Rock Region METRO fixed routes and METRO Connect; for planning, see Metroplan; call DWS Little Rock about WIOA passes.
(rrmetro.org) - Northwest Arkansas (Benton/Washington): Ride ORT On‑Demand; use Razorback Transit if near campus; request disability support via SOURCES.
(ozark.org) - Northeast/East Arkansas (Craighead/Mississippi/Phillips): Use JET in Jonesboro; check Mid‑Delta/SE providers; schedule NATS if in northern counties.
(jonesboro.org) - South/Southeast Arkansas (Jefferson/Union/Chicot): Use Pine Bluff Transit; call SEAT for rural rides; coordinate Medicaid NET via DHS NET if traveling to Little Rock for specialty care.
(cityofpinebluff-ar.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the 48‑hour NET window: Unless marked “urgent,” NET needs two business days; confirm on DHS NET and AFMC. Set calendar alerts.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Not keeping receipts for reimbursements: For SNAP E&T and WIOA, keep bus receipts and mileage logs. Check E&T caps and ask your Workforce Center how to submit.
(wioaplans.ed.gov) - Buying the wrong pass: METRO Connect Conway uses exact cash or virtual 1‑ride, not 31‑day passes used in LR/NLR; read RR METRO fares and METRO Connect notes before you purchase.
(rrmetro.org)
Reality Check: Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps
- Transit staffing and weather: Expect reduced routes in ice or storms; JET and others post updates on city pages; watch JET alerts and sign up for Pine Bluff text alerts.
(jonesbororightnow.com) - Program caps: E&T lists annual reimbursement caps; campus gas vouchers vary; always call to confirm. Review E&T plan and your campus CPI page.
(wioaplans.ed.gov) - DHS broker changes: DHS rebids NET regions; awardees may shift. Check the latest under Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation Services and verify your region’s contact before you schedule.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First call | Backup | Verification link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical ride (Medicaid) | 1-888-987-1200 (Option 1) | DHS County Offices | DHS NET |
| Little Rock ride today | RR METRO fares | METRO Connect | METRO Links |
| NWA ride today | ORT On‑Demand | Razorback Transit | ARDOT links |
| Work/training gas | DWS Workforce Center | SNAP E&T | CPI campus aid |
| Veterans travel | VA travel pay | CAVHS DAV vans | RR METRO |
Application Checklist (Print/Screenshot-Friendly)
- Medicaid rides: Medicaid ID, provider name/address, appointment time, pickup address; call 1-888-987-1200; read DHS NET steps; save the broker confirmation.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Transit passes: Check fares/hours on RR METRO or ORT On‑Demand; buy a mobile pass where available; note paratransit phone numbers like METRO Links 1-501-375-6717.
(rrmetro.org) - WIOA/SNAP E&T: Proof of training enrollment, class schedule, mileage/bus receipts; ask DWS about supportive services; confirm E&T caps.
(dws.arkansas.gov) - Career Pathways: Proof you’re a parent, income docs, class schedule; ask your campus about gas card rules; see UA‑PTC CPI and ANC CPI for examples.
(uaptc.edu) - Veterans: File travel reimbursements within 30 days using VA travel pay; keep mileage and parking receipts; call 1-855-574-7292 with questions.
(va.gov)
Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied
- Medicaid NET denial or no‑show: Ask for a supervisor at your broker; log call times; file a complaint with AFMC Beneficiary Relations; ask your provider to resubmit with “urgent medical” if appropriate; verify Medicaid status at your DHS County Office; and set a backup ride via RR METRO or ORT On‑Demand.
(afmc.org) - WIOA or SNAP E&T reimbursement denied: Request the written reason; ask about documentation gaps; resubmit with receipts; confirm caps in the E&T plan; and ask your Workforce Center for a local appeal or supervisor review.
(wioaplans.ed.gov)
County‑Specific Variations You Should Know
- Pulaski County: You have the most transit options with RR METRO fixed routes, METRO Connect zones, and METRO Links paratransit; many employers provide pass stipends—ask HR.
(rrmetro.org) - Benton/Washington (NWA): $1.25 ORT On‑Demand spans multiple cities; near campus, Razorback Transit is fare‑free for the public during service hours.
(ozark.org) - Jefferson County (Pine Bluff): Lower full fare at Pine Bluff Transit; rural trips may require SEAT or NET rides to Little Rock for specialty care.
(cityofpinebluff-ar.gov) - Texarkana (Miller County/bi‑state): Bus service by T‑Line crosses the state line; confirm ADA paratransit pickup rules if your origin is on the Arkansas side and your destination is across the border.
(t-linebus.org)
FAQs (Arkansas‑Specific)
- How fast can I get a Medicaid ride if my kid has a fever appointment today?
If your child’s provider marks the trip “urgent medical,” brokers should pick up without the usual 48‑hour notice. Call 1-888-987-1200 (Option 1) and ask the clinic to call the broker too. Review escalation steps on DHS NET and AFMC.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Can SNAP E&T pay for gas to get to a job interview?
Yes, if you’re in an E&T component and within the annual cap. Keep receipts and ask your provider how to submit. See caps in Arkansas’ plan and confirm at your DHS County Office or with your E&T provider.
(wioaplans.ed.gov) - What’s the cheapest way to ride in Little Rock for a month?
The RR METRO 31‑day pass is $36; some schools and employers help cover passes. If you’re in training, ask DWS or your campus CPI office about pass support.
(rrmetro.org) - Does Arkansas have low‑cost state auto insurance?
No state‑sponsored low‑cost auto insurance; use public transit like RR METRO or ORT On‑Demand while you save; ask SNAP E&T about reimbursements during job search.
(ozark.org) - Can TEA help with transportation after I get a job?
Yes. If your case closes due to employment, TEA’s extended support transportation can pay $200/month for two months. See TEA policy (5140) and check with your DHS County Office for current procedures.
(law.cornell.edu) - Are Razorback Transit buses really free for non‑students?
Yes, Razorback Transit is fare‑free to the general public during operating hours. See Transit Services for hours and contact 1-479-575-7433.
(parking.uark.edu) - I live in a rural county—who do I even call?
Start with your region’s provider like NATS or SEAT; use ARDOT’s operator links and Arkansas 211 for leads.
(ridewithnats.org) - My license is suspended; can I still get to work legally?
Ask DFA Driver Control about a restricted driving permit under Ark. Code §5‑65‑120 and pay reinstatement fees via DFA online tools. Use transit like RR METRO while processing.
(codes.findlaw.com) - Where can I see all Arkansas transit systems in one place?
Use ARDOT’s public transportation links and Arkansas Transit Association’s agency list; call Arkansas 211 if you’re unsure which one serves your address.
(ardot.gov) - Do Medicare Advantage plans cover rides?
Some MA plans include limited non‑medical rides; benefits vary by plan. Check your Evidence of Coverage on Medicare.gov and use RR METRO or ORT as backup. Always verify before booking.
Tables You Can Save
Table: Medicaid NET vs. Public Transit vs. WIOA Reimbursements
| Scenario | Fastest option | Cost | Who to call |
|---|---|---|---|
| Same‑day clinic visit (Medicaid) | NET urgent ride | Free | DHS NET |
| Job interview tomorrow | Bus + microtransit | 1–1–4 each way | RR METRO / ORT |
| College class commute | Campus CPI gas | Free to you | CPI benefits |
| Training off the bus line | WIOA reimbursement | After receipts | DWS Jobseeker services |
Table: Regional Ride Starters
| Region | Primary system | Backup | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central | RR METRO | METRO Connect | Streetcar is fare‑free |
| NWA | ORT On‑Demand | Razorback Transit | $1.25 on‑demand |
| Southeast | Pine Bluff Transit | SEAT | Rural call‑ahead |
| Northeast | JET | NATS | Winter alerts vary |
Table: Document Prep for Each Program
| Program | Must‑have docs | Where to upload/submit |
|---|---|---|
| NET | Medicaid ID, appointment | Call 1-888-987-1200; see DHS NET |
| SNAP E&T | Receipts, mileage | Provider instructions; see E&T plan |
| WIOA | Enrollment, schedule, receipts | Local Workforce Center |
| CPI | Parent/child proof, income | Campus CPI; e.g., UA‑PTC CPI |
Real‑World Examples (What Worked)
- Pulaski County mom with rotating shifts: She used METRO Connect for early shifts, a $36 31‑day pass for predictable weeks, and WIOA gas reimbursements on days she had to drive to training; Arkansas 211 helped her find a church that covered one tire.
(rrmetro.org) - NWA health‑tech student: She received $200/month CPI gas support at a campus similar to ANC’s program while also using ORT On‑Demand late evenings when carpool fell through.
(anc.edu) - Veteran mom in Pine Bluff: She filed VA travel pay for chemo visits, used Pine Bluff Transit on off days, and reserved a CAVHS DAV van for longer trips.
(va.gov)
What to Do If This Still Isn’t Enough
- File an internal appeal with your program (NET broker supervisor, E&T provider, WIOA coordinator). Use DHS policies and DWS policy manuals to cite rules and caps.
- Escalate to statewide resources like ARDOT Public Transportation for alternative agencies, then call Arkansas 211 to confirm live availability and hours that day.
- Build a layered plan: bus + microtransit + Medicaid rides + one weekly gas reimbursement; use RR METRO and ORT On‑Demand to cover last‑mile gaps; set calendar reminders for NET’s 48‑hour rule.
(ardot.gov)
Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español
Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre con los enlaces oficiales.
- Transporte de Medicaid (NET): Si tiene Medicaid/ARKids A, llame al 1-888-987-1200 (Opción 1) para programar viajes a citas médicas. Revise las reglas de NET en DHS y la guía de AFMC.
(humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Autobuses y viajes bajo demanda: En Little Rock/North Little Rock, consulte Rock Region METRO y METRO Connect; en Noroeste de Arkansas, use ORT On‑Demand; en Fort Smith, ver tarifas oficiales.
(rrmetro.org) - Ayuda para gasolina/pases: Llame al 211 de Arkansas (multilingüe); para capacitación y empleo busque apoyos de DWS/WIOA y reembolsos de SNAP E&T.
(211arkansas.org) - Estudiantes con hijos: Pida ayuda de gasolina/transporte a Career Pathways; algunos campus ofrecen hasta $200/mes (según fondos), como indica ANC; confirme con su campus.
(uaptc.edu) - Veteranas: Solicite reembolso de viaje del VA a esta página y pregunte por rutas DAV de CAVHS; use autobuses locales como RR METRO si es necesario.
(va.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Arkansas Department of Human Services – NET
- AFMC – Medicaid NET
- Rock Region METRO fares
- Ozark Regional Transit – On‑Demand
- Fort Smith Transit – Fares
- Pine Bluff Transit – Fares
- Jonesboro JET – Fares/Paratransit
- T‑Line – Texarkana Fares
- DWS – WIOA Jobseeker Services
- SNAP E&T Plan (2024–2027)
- Arkansas Career Pathways (UA‑PTC)
- VA Beneficiary Travel
- Arkansas 211
- ARDOT – Transit Links
Last verified: September 2025, next review: 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 for general information. Program rules and funding change, sometimes with little notice. Always confirm availability, fares, caps, and hours with the official agency before you travel or spend money. Use the linked pages for the latest updates, call to confirm, and keep your receipts.
🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas
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- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
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- 🏦 TANF Assistance
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- 👶 Childcare Assistance
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- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
