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Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Nebraska

Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Nebraska

Last updated: September 2025

If you need a ride to work, school, child care, court, or a clinic, you have more options in Nebraska than most people realize. This guide keeps everything in one place with direct steps, numbers, and links you can actually use. Keep it open on your phone and screenshot the checklists.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Start Here — How to Get a Ride Today in Nebraska

If your priority is medical care, the fastest path is often your Medicaid plan’s ride benefit. Call your plan or its vendor and book at least two business days ahead, but try anyway if it’s urgent. Use Nebraska Total Care’s MTM line (1-844-261-7834), Molina’s MTM line (1-888-889-0421), or UHC’s Modivcare line (1-866-394-3984); DHHS lists the same vendors on its Heritage Health resource page. Expect to confirm the appointment and pickup time. (nebraskatotalcare.com)

If you’re not on Medicaid, call your local system to book demand‑response or fixed‑route trips. Start with NDOT’s Public Transit page, use the state map of providers, or dial Nebraska 211 to find same‑day rides, deviated routes, and discounts near you; many rural systems ask for 24‑48 hours notice. In Omaha, check Metro/MOBY; in Lincoln, use StarTran Paratransit. (dot.nebraska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you still can’t secure a ride, apply through iServe Nebraska for SNAP or TANF to open up transportation help; ask DHHS at 1-855-632-7633 for a call‑back if lines are busy. You can also ask local charities through 211 Nebraska for a one‑time gas card or bus pass, and check Burlington Trailways for intercity options if the appointment is out of town. (dhhs.ne.gov)

Nebraska Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Medicaid covers free rides for eligible members to covered medical services. The vendor and phone number depend on your health plan. Book rides at least two working days in advance; urgent trips can be approved with less notice.

Typical rules include booking two business days ahead, a 60‑day forward window, and urgent trip exceptions your provider may verify. If your clinic says “use your plan,” show them the state’s plan/vendor list so staff schedule correctly. (dhhs.ne.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your ride is late or denied, call the vendor back and request escalation, then call your plan member services from Nebraska Total Care transport, Molina transport, or UHC transport to file a grievance. Also ask your clinic to document medical urgency if you need a same‑day trip. (nebraskatotalcare.com)

Tables — Fast Facts You Can Use

Medicaid ride lines by plan

Plan Ride vendor Booking phone Typical notice
Nebraska Total Care MTM 1-844-261-7834 2 business days (urgent exceptions)
Molina Healthcare of Nebraska MTM 1-888-889-0421 3 business days preferred
UnitedHealthcare Community Plan Modivcare 1-866-394-3984 2 business days (urgent exceptions)

Sources: Nebraska Total Care transportation, Molina transport, UHC provider transport, and the DHHS Heritage Health resource page. (nebraskatotalcare.com)

Public transit quick picks

Area Main system Phone Paratransit
Omaha Omaha Metro 1-402-341-0800 MOBY ADA 1-402-341-0800
Lincoln StarTran 1-402-476-1234 StarTran Paratransit 1-402-441-7109
Grand Island CRANE/Grand Island Transit 1-308-646-0069 Door‑to‑door by reservation
Kearney/Hastings region RYDE Transit 1-308-865-5677 County demand‑response
Panhandle (Scottsbluff/Gering) Tri‑City Roadrunner 1-308-436-6687 Deviations/demand‑response

Sources: Metro contact, MOBY, StarTran fares, StarTran Paratransit, Grand Island Transit, RYDE Transit, Tri‑City Roadrunner. (ometro.com)

Typical wait times and tips

Service When to book Usual wait Tip
Medicaid NEMT 2–3 business days before 10–20 min pickup window Ask about mileage reimbursement or an attendant ride when needed via plan ride pages
StarTran Paratransit 1 day to 7 days ahead 10–15 min window Know the $2.50 fare and low‑income pass rules via StarTran Paratransit
MOBY ADA (Omaha) As soon as you know 21 business days to certify Start application now via MOBY page

Sources: Heritage Health transport list, StarTran Paratransit guidelines, MOBY certification timing. (dhhs.ne.gov)

Intercity options

Mode Where to look Note
Bus Burlington Trailways Nebraska stops Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney, Grand Island, more
Rail Amtrak California Zephyr Omaha, Lincoln, Hastings, Holdrege, McCook
Rural links Panhandle Trails Western NE connections

Sources: Burlington Trailways Nebraska, Amtrak NE station upgrades, Panhandle Trails. (burlingtontrailways.com)

Programs that can help pay for transportation

Program Who it helps What it can pay
TANF/ADC Employment First Families on cash aid Fuel, limited commercial transport, registration up to $500, 3 months of basic auto insurance, license reinstatement costs, and more, case‑by‑case
SNAP Next Step Employment & Training SNAP households co‑enrolled Bus passes, gasoline (10–10–30 weekly typical), minor repairs; transportation cap $500 per federal fiscal year
WIOA workforce funds (NDOL) Job seekers in training or job search Supportive services like bus passes or mileage when tied to an employment plan

Sources: Nebraska TANF plan excerpt (transport/vehicle costs), SNAP Next Step E&T caps, NDOL WIOA overview. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

Medical Appointments — Getting Transportation Paid

Your care comes first, so book a covered ride when possible. For Medicaid, schedule rides directly with your plan’s vendor: Nebraska Total Care/MTM, Molina/MTM, or UHC/Modivcare; the state posts all current vendors on its Heritage Health page. If you have multiple stops (doctor plus pharmacy), ask for multi‑leg routing. (nebraskatotalcare.com)

If you have Medicare and Medicaid, ask your plan about additional non‑emergency ride benefits, and request mileage reimbursement if you can ride with a friend or family member. You can also book public transit to clinics using NDOT’s provider map or city pages like Omaha Metro and StarTran; most clinic social workers can help you plan a route. (nebraskatransit.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re a Veteran or caregiver, check VA Beneficiary Travel mileage and transit reimbursements through the VA travel pay page (41.5 cents/mile with monthly deductibles) or file quick claims in the VA Health & Benefits app update; county Veteran Service Officers are listed on NDVA’s CVSO directory. For tribal members, use Ponca Express or Winnebago Tribal Transit for clinic rides. (va.gov)

Getting to Work, School, and Child Care

If you’re on SNAP without TANF, ask to enroll in SNAP Next Step Employment & Training for bus passes, gas, and minor repairs within program caps. Call DHHS through ACCESSNebraska/iServe, learn about services on the SNAP Next Step E&T page, and note caps (transportation cap $500 per FFY) from the state E&T plan narrative. (dhhs.ne.gov)

If you receive TANF cash aid (ADC), your Employment First caseworker can approve several transportation supports: fuel, up to $500 for registration, one three‑month premium for liability insurance, reinstatement fees, and short periods of commercial transport, per Nebraska’s TANF plan details. Talk to your worker and cite the state TANF plan excerpt if needed; apply or report changes through iServe Nebraska. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

If you’re in training or job search, the workforce system may help with fare and mileage. Connect through NDOL’s WIOA portal and the three local areas (Greater Omaha, Greater Lincoln, and Greater Nebraska) via the same site; ask your American Job Center to list “supportive services for transportation” in your plan. For child seat rules during carpools, follow NDOT’s child passenger safety guidance or check Safe Kids Nebraska for inspection events. (dol.nebraska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re still short on gas or fare, call 211 Nebraska and ask for gas card or bus pass programs at Salvation Army or St. Vincent de Paul; use the Salvation Army HeatShare/utility help lines and SSVP Omaha “Get Help” to see if they can assist with transportation‑related bills or passes. (ne211.org)

Keep Your Driver’s License — Real Paths When You’re Suspended

Nebraska has permits that can keep you driving legally to work or medical care even during suspensions.

  • Employment Driving Permit: Use the Employment Driving Permit page to apply when your license is revoked for points or suspended for child‑support violations; it costs $50 and requires SR‑22 insurance and a quick defensive driving course if it’s for points. (dmv.nebraska.gov)
  • Medical Hardship Permit: If your license is revoked under the points system, use the Medical Hardship permit page to drive to medical care for you or your child; SR‑22 and a $50 fee usually apply. (dmv.nebraska.gov)
  • Ignition Interlock Permit: For alcohol‑related revocations, check eligibility and steps on the Ignition Interlock Permit page; you’ll need installation proof and fees listed by DMV. (dmv.nebraska.gov)

Know SR‑22 rules and reinstatement fees for different suspensions. Review DMV SR‑22 requirements, No Proof of Insurance reinstatement, and Support Order reinstatement. If you chose an ALR hearing for DUI, read the ALR page to understand permit impacts. (dmv.nebraska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If fees or SR‑22 are the barrier, ask your TANF or SNAP E&T worker about covering reinstatement or first‑month insurance as a supportive service and show the TANF plan excerpt language. If denied, call 211 Nebraska to find legal clinics, or reach out to Legal Aid of Nebraska via 211 for license help. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

Local Public Transit, Paratransit, and Reduced Fare Options

Nebraska’s systems are a mix of city buses, on‑demand microtransit, and rural demand‑response. Schedules vary by county, so book early and ask what riders need to provide for car seats or mobility devices.

  • Omaha Metro: Call Metro customer service at 1-402-341-0800 for route help, and read MOBY ADA paratransit for application and 2.50fare.Forfirst/lastmilein2025,∗[MetroFlex](https://www.ometro.com/rider−guide/metro−flex/)∗offersmicrotransitwithfaresslatedat2.50 fare. For first/last mile in 2025, *[Metro Flex](https://www.ometro.com/rider-guide/metro-flex/)* offers microtransit with fares slated at 3/trip after Oct 15, 2025. Pay with the Umo app/cards to cap fares and reload easily. (ometro.com)
  • Lincoln StarTran: Day fares are low, and the Low‑Income 31‑Day Pass is 8(8 (16 for paratransit) sold at partner sites; paratransit costs 2.50(with2.50 (with 16 low‑income 31‑day pass for eligible riders) via Paratransit guidelines. Check StarTran passes/fares for details and Token Transit mobile tickets. (lincoln.ne.gov)
  • Central Nebraska: Book CRANE/Grand Island Transit at 1-308-646-0069 (standard fares $2 per ride listed under fares), and call RYDE Transit dispatch lines by county for Kearney, Hastings, and nearby towns. (grand-island.com)
  • Panhandle: Tri‑City Roadrunner runs flexible routes and county demand‑response (route deviations 3,reduced3, reduced 2 with documentation), and Panhandle Trails connects rural towns and regional hubs. (tricityroadrunner.com)
  • Intercity: Burlington Trailways lists Nebraska stops with hours and service level, while Amtrak serves Omaha, Lincoln, Hastings, Holdrege, McCook on the Zephyr. If you live far from a stop, check NDOT public transit for connecting rides. (burlingtontrailways.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If fixed routes don’t reach you, ask about “deviated fixed routes” or “demand‑response” on Tri‑City Roadrunner or RYDE Transit. For metro areas, consider microtransit Metro Flex to connect to faster lines. If you’re tribal, use Ponca Express service areas. (tricityroadrunner.com)

Affordable Car Ownership, Repairs, and Fuel — What’s Realistic

Funding is limited, but some programs pay specific car costs. TANF Employment First can approve fuel, registration up to $500, one three‑month liability premium, and license reinstatement fees where needed to participate in work activities, per the state TANF plan. Show your caseworker the plan excerpt, and apply or report changes at iServe Nebraska so they can act. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

SNAP Next Step E&T can help with weekly bus passes, fuel (10–10–30 typical), and minor repairs up to caps (500transportationcapperFFY,500 transportation cap per FFY, 4,400 combined), as listed in the state E&T plan narrative; ask your coordinator to budget for childcare‑related trips too. If you’re in a WIOA training funded by NDOL, ask about supportive services through NDOL’s WIOA page and document commuting costs in your Individual Employment Plan. (wioaplans.ed.gov)

Charities sometimes provide a one‑time gas card or bus pass. Start with 211 Nebraska, then try Salvation Army’s HeatShare/utility programs and SSVP Omaha’s assistance intake; ask for transportation‑related help tied to work or medical needs. If you’re a Veteran, claim mileage or public transit reimbursement via VA travel pay and file quickly. (ne211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider a vanpool if you commute further than local bus routes. NDOT subsidizes Commute with Enterprise vanpools up to hundreds per month, with ADA options; form a group and split costs. If all else fails, move appointments to telehealth when possible and ask your provider’s social worker for a one‑time ride grant. (dot.nebraska.gov)

Child Passenger Safety and School Transportation

If you’re transporting kids, make sure car seats are correct and inspected. Use NDOT’s child passenger safety page to find check events and inspection stations, and see Safe Kids Nebraska for training and local events. Fines and points apply for violations under state law; the Nebraska State Patrol summarizes rules and common mistakes. (dot.nebraska.gov)

If you must drive your child to school due to district assignments, check your district’s reimbursement policy. The Nebraska Department of Education lists the 2025 state mileage rate at 0.70,withreimbursementformulassetat2850.70, with reimbursement formulas set at 285% for regular resident students (1.9950/mi) and 142.5% for enrollment option students ($0.9975/mi). Ask your district business office about eligibility using NDE’s reimbursement rates page and keep logs. (education.ne.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If school transport is denied, ask for a written decision and cite NDE’s mileage reimbursement policy. For kids with disabilities, request an IEP transportation review and coordinate with StarTran Paratransit or your county system listed on NDOT’s public transit page. (education.ne.gov)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Pointers and Links

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your plan or clinic for safe‑ride options and privacy protections when scheduling with Nebraska Total Care transport or UHC/Modivcare, and use NDOT transit search for safe daytime trips. If you face discrimination, report it to your plan and copy Nebraska 211 for alternate referrals. (nebraskatotalcare.com)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply for paratransit through MOBY ADA or StarTran Paratransit, and ask Nebraska VR about job‑related transportation supports and vehicle modifications via Nebraska VR. For seat checks and adaptive gear guidance, use NDOT CPS. (ometro.com)

Veteran single mothers: File for mileage and public transit reimbursement using VA Beneficiary Travel (41.5 cents/mile; monthly deductible rules apply), submit mobile claims through the VA Health & Benefits app update, and get county help from NDVA’s CVSO directory. You can combine VA travel with NDOT transit if needed. (va.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Case managers can provide rides for resettlement services and medical appointments through Lutheran Family Services and community partners; ask about language support when booking StarTran or Metro routes. Use 211 Nebraska to find translated transit education like Lincoln’s 2025 “How to Ride” project. (onelfs.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: The Ponca Tribe runs Ponca Express in metro and rural service areas (request rides through metro 1-855-766-2239 or rural 1-877-769-3111), and the Winnebago Tribe offers Tribal Transit (demand‑response and work/school runs). For job training rides, check Ponca WIOA‑INA. Combine these with NDOT public transit if you travel off‑service areas. (poncatribe-ne.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Book early with Panhandle Trails, RYDE Transit, or Tri‑City Roadrunner; ask dispatch about transfer points to intercity Burlington Trailways. If you commute long distances, consider the NDOT–Enterprise vanpool. (optne.com)

Single fathers: All programs listed apply to custodial parents regardless of gender. Use SNAP Next Step E&T, Employment First (TANF/ADC), and NDOT transit in the same way; child‑support suspensions can be addressed through DMV’s support order steps. (dhhs.ne.gov)

Language access: Use the language line through Nebraska 211, request interpreter notes when booking plan rides, and look for city language expansions like Lincoln’s 2025 transit education grant at City news; ask transit offices for translated how‑to ride materials. (ne211.org)

Resources by Region — Who to Call and Click

Omaha Metro area: Plan with Omaha Metro customer service (1-402-341-0800), apply for MOBY ADA if disability limits bus use, and watch microtransit updates on Metro Flex. For emergency help, call Nebraska 211 for gas cards or day passes. (ometro.com)

Lincoln/Lancaster: Get the 8low‑incomepassor8 low‑income pass or 16 low‑income paratransit pass via StarTran low‑income passes, book Paratransit at 1-402-441-7109, and view fares at StarTran passes/fares. Keep an eye on city projects expanding “how to ride” support in multiple languages at City of Lincoln news. (lincoln.ne.gov)

Grand Island/Kearney/Hastings: Book CRANE/Grand Island Transit (fares here), and RYDE Transit dispatch by county for regional trips; ask about out‑of‑town medical runs. If long‑distance, connect to Burlington Trailways stops nearby. (grand-island.com)

Scottsbluff/Gering/Terrytown: Use Tri‑City Roadrunner for flexible routes and demand‑response, coordinate transfers with Panhandle Trails, and call NDOT transit for system‑to‑system planning. (tricityroadrunner.com)

Norfolk/Northeast: Tribal members can use Ponca Express for health, education, and social service trips; combine with regional providers on NDOT’s map as needed. For statewide help, call Nebraska 211. (poncatribe-ne.gov)

North Platte/McCook/Southwest: Check Burlington Trailways stops for out‑of‑town travel, and book county transit listed on NDOT public transit. If you face a long commute, ask about the NDOT–Enterprise vanpool subsidy. (burlingtontrailways.com)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps

Nebraska ride programs are strong, but funding and capacity cause waits. Medicaid vendors often need two business days; MOBY ADA certification can take up to 21 business days; rural systems can book up fast during peak times. Build buffers, line up backups through NDOT public transit, and keep emergency options through 211 handy. If a charity says “we’re out of funds,” try again the first week of the month. See timing from MOBY and vendor notices on plan transport pages. (dot.nebraska.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First step Backup
Medical ride (Medicaid) Call plan ride line on Heritage Health list Clinic social worker + NDOT transit
Work/training commute Ask about SNAP Next Step E&T or TANF/ADC NDOL WIOA supportive services
Paratransit Apply to MOBY ADA or StarTran Paratransit County demand‑response on NDOT map
Intercity Check Burlington Trailways NE or Amtrak Ask Panhandle Trails for links
License issues DMV EDP/MHP/IIP 211 Nebraska legal clinics

(dhhs.ne.gov)

Application Checklist — Screenshot and Check Off

If Your Application Gets Denied

County‑Specific Variations You’ll Notice

  • Lincoln: StarTran offers the *[Low‑Income 31‑Day Pass for 8](https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/StarTran/Low−Income)∗(8](https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/StarTran/Low-Income)* (16 paratransit), and paratransit costs $2.50 with day/20‑ride/31‑day options listed under Paratransit Guidelines. (lincoln.ne.gov)
  • Omaha: Paratransit certification through MOBY may take up to 21 business days; microtransit Metro Flex adds new on‑demand options with a $3 fare starting Oct 15, 2025. Load funds in Umo. (ometro.com)
  • Scotts Bluff County: Tri‑City Roadrunner deviations are 3one‑way(3 one‑way (2 reduced), and demand‑response runs 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. M–F; plan ahead. (tricityroadrunner.com)
  • Grand Island: CRANE fare is $2 per ride with e‑pass and cards; call dispatch at 1‑308‑646‑0069 early in the day. (grand-island.com)

Real‑World Examples

How to Stop a Transportation Crisis Today in Nebraska

FAQs — Nebraska Transportation Help

  1. How fast can I get a Medicaid ride approved: Vendors advise two business days, but urgent medical trips can be approved with less notice through Nebraska Total Care/MTM, Molina/MTM, or UHC/Modivcare; the state Heritage Health page lists the same.
  2. Does SNAP E&T really pay for gas or repairs: Yes, when tied to job search or training; the plan caps include a 500annualtransportationcapwithtypicalweeklyamountsof500 annual transportation cap with typical weekly amounts of 10–$30, per the state E&T narrative. Apply via iServe Nebraska and ask your coordinator to add it.
  3. What if I live far from a bus stop: Use your county’s demand‑response on NDOT’s map, consider Metro Flex in Omaha, or check Panhandle Trails for regional links; connect to Burlington Trailways or Amtrak when traveling long distance.
  4. How do I get a low‑income bus pass in Lincoln: Bring ID to a listed site from StarTran low‑income passes for an 831‑daypass(8 31‑day pass (16 paratransit); full fare options are on StarTran fares, and paratransit details are in Paratransit guidelines.
  5. Can TANF/ADC help with my registration and insurance: Yes, Employment First can pay up to $500 for registration and one three‑month liability premium when needed for participation, per the state TANF plan; ask via iServe and your worker.
  6. What’s the mileage reimbursement for school transport: NDE shows 2025 rates using the 0.70statemileageratemultipliedperstatute,resultingin0.70 state mileage rate multiplied per statute, resulting in 1.9950/mi (regular resident students) and $0.9975/mi (enrollment option) on NDE reimbursement rates. Ask your district about eligibility and forms.
  7. Do Veterans get paid back for rides: Eligible Veterans/caregivers can claim 41.5 cents/mile and transit/taxi in approved cases via VA travel pay; submit in the VA app update or BTSSS. Your county can help from NDVA’s CVSO list.
  8. Is there help for long‑distance commuting: Yes—Nebraska’s statewide vanpool with Commute with Enterprise includes NDOT subsidies and ADA options; ask your HR office to sponsor a group or join an existing one.
  9. Where can I learn to ride the bus if English isn’t my first language: Lincoln received a 2025 grant to expand “How to Ride” in multiple languages, per City of Lincoln news; call StarTran or Nebraska 211 to find a session.
  10. Who do I contact to apply for benefits that unlock ride help: Use iServe Nebraska and the iServe training/quick guides, or call ACCESSNebraska Medicaid 1‑855‑632‑7633 and Economic Assistance 1‑800‑383‑4278 listed on the ACCESSNebraska page.

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección ofrece los pasos más importantes para conseguir transporte en Nebraska. Para viajes médicos con Medicaid, use las líneas de transporte de su plan: Nebraska Total Care/MTM, Molina/MTM, o UHC/Modivcare. Para transporte público local, vea NDOT “Find Public Transportation” y servicios como Omaha Metro/MOBY y StarTran/Paratransit. Para ayuda inmediata con vales de gasolina o pases, llame al 211 Nebraska o solicite beneficios por iServe Nebraska para activar apoyos de SNAP E&T o TANF.

Traducción creada con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con las fuentes oficiales enlazadas.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

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 provides general information and links to official agencies and programs. It is not legal advice or a guarantee of eligibility or benefits. Always confirm availability, coverage, and appointment details directly with your health plan, transit agency, or the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Funding amounts, rules, and schedules change; call to confirm current availability before applying.

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