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Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Nevada

Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Nevada

Last updated: September 2025

Single moms in Nevada usually need help that works today, not next month. This guide shows you what to do first, who to call, what to expect, and how to avoid delays. Every program listed links to an official source so you can apply fast and verify details yourself.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Key Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

How to Get a Ride to Medical Appointments in Nevada Today

If your child is sick or you’re managing a pregnancy or chronic condition, lock in medical transport first. Medicaid pays for medically necessary trips to covered care if you have no other ride.

  • What to do first: Call MTM at 1-844-879-7341. Ask for an urgent ride if the appointment is within 24 hours. You can also complain or check “Where’s My Ride” on the same line. Read timing rules at Nevada Medicaid Transportation and the member steps at MTM Nevada Members; Anthem’s Medicaid page repeats the same number and 5‑day routine scheduling window at Anthem NV Medicaid Transportation. Expect routine rides to be scheduled Monday–Saturday, 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Pacific. (dhcfp.nv.gov)
  • What you’ll need when you call: Name, pickup address, doctor and clinic address, appointment time, and any special needs. Read the checklist on Anthem NV Medicaid Transportation; see mode options (bus pass, sedan, paratransit, rideshare, or mileage reimbursement) on MTM Nevada Members; note Nevada encourages three business days’ notice for non‑urgent rides per DHCFP Transportation page. (mss.anthem.com)
  • Money tips: If a friend or family member can drive you, ask for mileage reimbursement. As of January 2024, MTM lists $0.21/mile, issued via Focus Card, with pre‑authorization required; learn how reimbursement works at MTM Nevada and read the GMR FAQ on MTM Nevada Members before you submit miles. Keep your appointment proof handy. (mtm-inc.net)
  • Paratransit riders: If you hold an RTC Paratransit ID in Las Vegas, you can ride fixed‑routes free and use paratransit for door‑to‑door at $3 per one‑way. See certification steps at RTC Get Certified; learn fares and how to buy 22/46‑ride books at RTC Paratransit & Accessibility; and note Transdev now operates RTC paratransit under a 5‑year contract that started April 10, 2025 per Transdev news for continuity. (rtcsnv.com)
  • Timelines: Routine NEMT rides generally need 3 business days; urgent trips can be scheduled 24/7. Expect hold times during morning peaks; plan to call mid‑day if it’s not urgent. See operating hours at MTM Nevada; the state’s NEMT page repeats the three‑day guideline at DHCFP Transportation; on late rides, call the main line again to trigger a “Where’s My Ride” check. (mtm-inc.net)
  • Veterans: If you use VA care, ask about travel pay and shuttle options. VA Southern Nevada offers Beneficiary Travel reimbursement via BTSSS; start at VA Southern Nevada health services – Travel reimbursement; statewide VTS/DAV van info is summarized by Nevada Department of Veterans Services; Sierra Nevada (Reno) DAV vans details live at VA Sierra Nevada DAV Vans (ambulatory riders only). (va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to request transport through MTM’s facility portal (they can expedite) at MTM Nevada for medical facilities; if a driver no‑shows, call 1‑844-879-7341 again; file complaints at 1‑866-436-0457 or via We Care Line; if you’re uninsured, ask your clinic social worker about Lyft/Uber vouchers and call Nevada 211 for non‑Medicaid medical ride programs. (mtm-inc.net)

Your Main Transit Options in Nevada (What to Use First)

Start with the local transit system that runs where you live. Apply for any reduced fare, student, veteran, or disability discount available.

Metro: Las Vegas (Clark County) — RTC of Southern Nevada

  • What to do first: If you qualify, apply online for a Reduced Fare ID; seniors, students (K‑12 and NSHE), veterans, Medicare card holders, youths 6–17, and people with disabilities save 50%. Learn who qualifies at RTC Reduced Fare blog; buy passes or Reduced Fare products at RTC Fares & Passes; see residential fare prices and Strip/Deuce prices at RTC Fares page. (rtcsnv.com)
  • Street‑level tips: Use the rideRTC app to load Tap & GO; kids 5 and under ride free; bring exact cash if paying on board. Check the paratransit page for ADA service areas, 3 fare, and mobility training at _[RTC Paratransit & Accessibility](https://www.rtcsnv.com/ways-to-travel/paratransit-accessibility/)_; bike‑share in Downtown offers 5 day passes and $15 monthly on RTC Bike Share if your errands are near stations. (rtcsnv.com)
  • Watcher note: RTC awarded a new long‑term paratransit operations contract to Transdev effective April 10, 2025; disruptions during the January–April transition were addressed, but service is ongoing—see updates at Transdev press and keep a $3 cash fare ready if you board. (transdevna.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If buses don’t reach your shift times or childcare, ask about RTC’s paratransit on‑demand pilot and alternative providers listed under “Non‑Dedicated Service” at RTC, Paratransit alternatives; for taxi issues in Clark County, file with the Nevada Taxicab Authority; if you get a text about “Nevada toll road fees,” ignore it—Nevada has no tolls per NDOT public warnings covered by KTNV and KOLO (it’s a scam). (rtcsnv.com)

Metro: Reno/Sparks (Washoe County) — RTC Washoe

What to do if this doesn’t work: For trips outside the bus zone, ask about RTC VANPOOL or call the Mobility Manager (north region) listed on NDOT Transit / Mobility Managers; for rural Washoe or Incline Village, call the Incline Senior Transportation hotline at 1‑775‑886‑1020 via IVGID Senior Transportation Program; if a taxi denies your WSR card, report it to the Nevada Transportation Authority and include the driver and cab number. (dot.nv.gov)

Carson City, Douglas County, Tahoe, and Rural Southern Nevada

  • Carson City (JAC): Fares are 1.50adultand1.50 adult and 0.75 reduced; JAC Assist paratransit costs 3–3–6 depending on distance. See details at JAC Fares; learn about free senior fixed‑route passes at JAC Senior Bus Pass Program; check hours at JAC Routes & Schedules. (carson.org)
  • Douglas County (DART): Public rides are 2;seniors/Medicare/disabledpay2; seniors/Medicare/disabled pay 1 (donation suggested). Call 1‑775‑783‑6456; policy and fares are posted at Douglas DART Fares; TTY users can dial 711 per county notes. (communityservices.douglascountynv.gov)
  • Tahoe (TTD): Zero‑fare bus service remains in place through September 2026. See “Zero Fare” policy and real‑time tracking info at Tahoe Transportation District – How to Ride; for seasonal shuttles like Emerald Bay, check local announcements (book ahead) at Truckee/North Tahoe TMA. (tahoetransportation.org)
  • Southern Nevada rural (Silver Rider Transit): SNTC runs routes in Laughlin, Mesquite, and Boulder City, with the same 2full/2 full / 1 reduced one‑way and 30‑day 65/65 / 32.50 pass structure as RTC’s residential fares. See local numbers and routes at SNTC Silver Rider; Mesquite/Laughlin sometimes offer free fixed‑route holiday rides—watch city notices like Mesquite’s Silver Rider updates. (sntc.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county senior center about general public rides and medical shuttles; NDOT lists each county’s contacts at Transit Providers; if you’re outside a fixed route, request demand‑response options such as paratransit or dial‑a‑ride through your local office (for example, Douglas DART contact or SNTC offices. (dot.nv.gov)

Rural Nevada: Finding a Ride When You’re Far From a Bus Stop

Rural systems often use call‑ahead, door‑to‑door scheduling. Book at least 24–48 hours ahead and be ready at your pickup point.

  • Elko County (GET My Ride): Demand‑response within Elko and zone‑based trips countywide; typical fares range 2–2–6 depending on zone. Dispatch is 1‑775‑777‑1428 (text 1‑775‑557‑7785). Background on zones and hours appears in the Elko Daily News feature; NDOT lists Elko contact on Transit Providers. (elkodaily.com)
  • Nye County — Pahrump Valley Public Transportation (PVPT): Demand‑response service in Pahrump with scheduled out‑of‑town days to Beatty and Amargosa. Reserve at 1‑775‑751‑6860; hours and policies are posted at GoPVPT; Nye County’s RTC page covers broader planning at Nye County RTC. (gopvpt.org)
  • Lyon County: Local and medical trips via Human Services, suggested $5 donation each way. Call 1‑775‑577‑5009 ext. 3311; schedules and senior center numbers are at Lyon Transportation Services; regional contacts appear on FTA transit profiles. (lyon-county.org)
  • White Pine (Ely Bus) / Lincoln County / Pyramid Lake Tribal Transit: If there’s no clear website, start with NDOT’s directory and call the listed numbers for current service and eligibility at NDOT Transit Providers; rural mobility managers can help plan complex trips (contact info is on the same NDOT page). (dot.nv.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If routes are full or denied, ask to be placed on a waiting list and request a “medical necessity” ride if applicable; file accessibility complaints with NDOT ADA/Section 504 if you face disability‑related barriers; for work trips, ask EmployNV about vanpools and mileage stipends. (dot.nv.gov)

Snapshot Table — Most‑Used Metro Transit Options and Discounts

Area Standard Local Fare (adult) Reduced Fare (who qualifies) Key Discount/Notes Where to Apply/Buy
Las Vegas (RTC SNV) 2singleride;2 single ride; 3 2‑hour; 524‑hour;5 24‑hour; 65 30‑day Half‑price for seniors 60+, students (K‑12/NSHE), veterans, youth 6–17, Medicare, disability Reduced Fare ID can be applied for online; paratransit $3 one way RTC Fares • Reduced Fare blog • Paratransit (rtcsnv.com)
Reno/Sparks (RTC Washoe) 2single;2 single; 3 day; $65 31‑day 1single;1 single; 1.50 day; $32.50 31‑day (youth 6–18, seniors 60+, disability, veterans) WCSD students ride free through June 30, 2026 (Youth Pass) RTC Washoe Fares • FlexRIDE • Youth Ride Free (rtcwashoe.com)
Carson City (JAC) $1.50 adult; transfers free 0.75reduced;JACAssist0.75 reduced; JAC Assist 3–$6 Free annual fixed‑route passes for seniors (as funding allows) JAC Fares • Senior Pass • Schedules (carson.org)
Tahoe (TTD) Zero fare through Sept 2026 N/A All routes free; check seasonal changes TTD How to Ride • TTD Policies • Transit App info (tahoetransportation.org)
Rural Clark (Silver Rider) 2oneway;2 one way; 65 30‑day 1oneway;1 one way; 32.50 30‑day (youth/seniors/disability) Free holiday fixed‑route rides occasionally SNTC Silver Rider • Mesquite City updates • SNTC routes (sntc.net)

Work and School: Transportation That Helps You Keep Your Schedule

When your job or classes are on the line, aim at programs that reimburse travel, give passes, or directly fund car repairs tied to employment.

  • TANF (NEON) supportive services: If you get TANF cash, your NEON case manager can approve bus passes, gas reimbursement, and even car repairs tied to work or required activities. See the state’s list under “Support Services” at DWSS Employment & Support Services; note participation hours and compliance timelines on the same page; ask for written approval before spending. (dwss.nv.gov)
  • SNAP Employment & Training (E&T): If you’re on SNAP and enrolled in E&T through NSHE colleges or partners, you can get transportation help (passes, gas, or mileage) while in approved activities. Start at NSHE SNAP E&T; federal rules require states to reimburse reasonable E&T costs like transportation per USDA FNS guidance; confirm your local E&T cap and process with your campus coordinator. (nshe.nevada.edu)
  • WIOA job training and supportive services: Training funded by WIOA through EmployNV can include transport help. Find the nearest hub and ask about bus passes, mileage, or vehicle repairs tied to training or job placement at EmployNV Career Hubs; Northern Nevada coordination is led by Nevadaworks; the 2025 WIOA Adult grant to Nevada confirms active funding at HigherGov award detail. (detr.nv.gov)
  • Students (K‑12): In Clark County, Title I HOPE can provide reduced‑fare RTC passes or school transportation to the “school of origin” for homeless students. Contact 1‑702‑855‑6682 and see the notes at CCSD Title I HOPE — transportation; in Washoe, the Youth Ride Free pass covers RTC fixed routes at no cost for WCSD students through June 30, 2026. (ccsd.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied supportive services, ask for the written policy and appeal steps; bring class/work schedules and pay stubs to show the need; get a letter from your supervisor confirming shift times. Meanwhile, buy the least‑cost pass listed for your city (see RTC SNV fares or RTC Washoe fares) and keep receipts to seek reimbursement. (rtcsnv.com)

Car Not Passing Smog, No Gas, or Needs a Repair?

You can’t work if your car is grounded. Focus on safety and legality first: smog, tags, insurance, car seats.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the emissions fund is out, ask your WIOA or TANF worker for a one‑time repair using job‑related supportive services (EmployNV Hubs and DWSS NEON). Keep all repair estimates and diagnostics for your case file. (detr.nv.gov)

Table — Medicaid NEMT: What to Expect When You Book

Step What You Do What MTM/Medicaid Does Timeframe
Call to schedule Dial 1‑844‑879‑7341; give appointment, clinic, and special needs Verifies Medicaid eligibility and medical necessity Routine rides: book Mon–Sat, 7 a.m.–6 p.m.; allow 3 business days
Urgent rides Say it’s urgent (same‑day/next‑day) Schedules 24/7 for urgent cases Same day or within hours when appropriate
Mileage reimbursement Ask for GMR if you, a friend, or family can drive Loads funds to Focus Card after verification Rate listed at $0.21/mile (check current rate)
Late ride Call back to request “Where’s My Ride” Contacts provider and updates ETA Usually within 30–60 minutes
Complaints Call the “We Care” line 1‑866‑436‑0457 Logs and investigates Follow‑up expected from MTM

Learn more at Nevada Medicaid Transportation and the member pages at MTM Nevada and Anthem NV Medicaid Transportation. (dhcfp.nv.gov)

Rights, Complaints, and Safety

Local Organizations and Charities That Often Help with Transportation

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your case manager to put the request in writing with a “work or safety” justification; escalate to the agency’s supervisor if you get no response; continue searching Nevada 211 for duplicates in your ZIP (agencies fund similar services under different names). (nevada211.org)

Resources by Region (Quick Directory)

Region Main Transit Medical Rides Rural/Alt. Options
Las Vegas/Clark RTC SNV • Paratransit Medicaid NEMT (MTM) SNTC Silver Rider • Taxicab Authority (rtcsnv.com)
Reno/Sparks/Washoe RTC Washoe • FlexRIDE Medicaid NEMT (MTM) Taxi Bucks • NDOT Transit (rtcwashoe.com)
Carson City/Douglas JAC • DART Medicaid NEMT (MTM) TTD Zero Fare • NDOT Transit (carson.org)
Elko/Eastern NV Local dial‑a‑ride via GET My Ride Medicaid NEMT (MTM) NDOT Transit list (contact for exact routes) (elkodaily.com)
Nye (Pahrump) PVPT Medicaid NEMT (MTM) County transit updates at Nye RTC (gopvpt.org)

Car Seats and Safety for Your Kids (Low‑Cost Options)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your WIC clinic, hospital, or family resource center about car seat vouchers; if you got a ticket, completing an approved training often reduces penalties (see options through Safe Kids Clark County). (safekidsclarkcounty.org)

Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First Call/Click Backup Plan
Ride to a doctor now Medicaid NEMT – MTM 1‑844‑879‑7341 Ask clinic to schedule via MTM Facility Portal; search Nevada 211 – Medical Transport (mtm-inc.net)
Daily bus to work RTC SNV Fares or RTC Washoe Fares Apply reduced fare online at RTC SNV Reduced Fare; ask WIOA/TANF for pass reimbursement at EmployNV (rtcsnv.com)
Rural door‑to‑door ride NDOT Transit Directory Contact regional Mobility Manager listed on NDOT page; use county senior ride lines (e.g., Lyon Transportation) (dot.nv.gov)
Car won’t pass smog SmogFreeClarkCounty.com DMV waiver rules at NV DMV Emissions; request WIOA/TANF repair support via EmployNV (smogfreeclarkcounty.com)
Gas/bus pass voucher Nevada 211 – Gas Money HELP of Southern Nevada (702‑369‑4357) or Catholic Charities NN (nevada211.org)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

Diverse Communities — Tailored Transportation Notes

How to Stop a Transport‑Related Crisis Today (Examples)

  • How to stop a medical ride failure today: Call MTM at 1‑844‑879‑7341, request “urgent re‑dispatch,” and notify the clinic you’re delayed. If you miss the visit, ask the clinic to call MTM’s facility line (faster) via MTM Nevada – Medical Facilities; confirm the new pickup before hanging up. If you’re not on Medicaid, ask the clinic about Lyft/Uber vouchers and search Nevada 211 – Medical Transport for same‑day options. (mtm-inc.net)
  • How to get to work tonight with no cash: Buy a 24‑hour RTC pass through the rideRTC/Transit app listed on RTC Fares & Passes (Las Vegas) or Token Transit listed on RTC Washoe Buy Passes (Reno/Sparks). If you qualify for reduced fare but don’t have the ID yet, save your receipts and apply online or at the office tomorrow via RTC SNV Reduced Fare online to cut your cost going forward. (rtcsnv.com)
  • How to move around downtown on the cheap: In Downtown Las Vegas, consider bike share if your trip is under 60 minutes per leg—passes start at $5/day at RTC Bike Share; check the pass rules and e‑bike fees at Bike Share How It Works to avoid overage. Combine with RTC routes via RTC Fares & Passes. (bikeshare.rtcsnv.com)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Medicaid ride denied: Ask for the reason code and request reconsideration with supporting documents (appointment letter, doctor note on medical need). Clinics can upload through MTM Facility Portal; you can also file a complaint via MTM We Care line (1‑866‑436‑0457). (mtm-inc.net)
  • Reduced fare rejected: Re‑apply with proper ID per the rules at RTC Washoe Fares or RTC SNV Reduced Fare online; ask customer service if a temporary approval number can be issued while your card ships. (rtcwashoe.com)
  • Charity funds “on hold”: Ask when the next funding batch arrives; check other agencies in your ZIP at Nevada 211; ask your WIOA/TANF worker for interim bus passes under supportive services (EmployNV Hubs and DWSS NEON). (nevada211.org)

County‑Specific Variations That Matter

FAQs (Nevada‑Specific)

  1. How fast can I get a Medicaid ride in Nevada?
    For routine care, call three business days ahead. Urgent trips can be scheduled 24/7 by MTM at 1‑844‑879‑7341. See the state page at DHCFP Transportation and member details at MTM Nevada; Anthem confirms the timing at Anthem NV Medicaid. (dhcfp.nv.gov)
  2. What does an RTC Las Vegas 30‑day residential pass cost?
    65regularor65 regular or 32.50 reduced (youth, seniors, disability, Medicare, students, veterans). See RTC SNV Fares & Passes and mobile fares at RTC mobile fares page. (rtcsnv.com)
  3. Do WCSD students ride free in Reno/Sparks?
    Yes—Youth Ride Free runs from June 7, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Sign up via WCSD Youth Ride Free; program details at RTC Youth Pass page. (washoeschools.net)
  4. Are there toll roads in Nevada?
    No. NDOT and news outlets warn of “fake toll” text scams; learn more at KTNV coverage and KOLO coverage; background at Nevada Independent fact brief. (ktnv.com)
  5. Can TANF pay for car repairs so I can keep my job?
    Yes, NEON supportive services can cover work‑related car repairs when approved by your case manager. See policy summary at DWSS Employment & Support Services and keep receipts. (dwss.nv.gov)
  6. Where do I complain if a taxi overcharges me in Las Vegas?
    File a complaint with the Nevada Taxicab Authority and include the cab number and fare. For Washoe or other counties, use the Nevada Transportation Authority complaint portal. (taxi.nv.gov)
  7. Does Tahoe transit cost money right now?
    TTD is zero fare on all routes through September 2026. See announcements at TTD How to Ride and check the Transit App link there for live arrivals. (tahoetransportation.org)
  8. Is there any help for emissions repairs in Clark County?
    Yes—apply through Smog Free Clark County; if funding is closed, ask about timing and review waiver rules at NV DMV Emissions. (smogfreeclarkcounty.com)
  9. How do I find a ride in Pahrump or outside the Vegas valley?
    Call Pahrump Valley Public Transportation at 1‑775‑751‑6860 via GoPVPT; for other rural towns, check NDOT’s directory for your county’s provider. (gopvpt.org)
  10. Can I use bike share to save money downtown?
    In Downtown Las Vegas, RTC Bike Share offers 5dayand5 day and 15 monthly passes. Read how it works and avoid overage at Bike Share How It Works; combine with bus routes from RTC SNV. (bikeshare.rtcsnv.com)

Tables — Rural Ride Finder (by Example)

County Who to Call Notes
Elko 1‑775‑777‑1428 (GET My Ride) Zone fares 2–2–6; book weekday rides ahead; see Elko Daily overview. (elkodaily.com)
Nye (Pahrump) 1‑775‑751‑6860 (PVPT) Demand‑response Mon–Sat; details at GoPVPT. (gopvpt.org)
Lyon 1‑775‑577‑5009 ext. 3311 Medical trips weekdays; suggested donation; Lyon Transportation. (lyon-county.org)
Douglas 1‑775‑783‑6456 (DART) 2adult;2 adult; 1 seniors/disabled; see DART Fares. (communityservices.douglascountynv.gov)
Clark rural (Laughlin, Mesquite, Boulder City) SNTC local numbers Phone numbers listed at SNTC Contact; fares mirror RTC residential levels. (sntc.net)

What to Do If This Still Doesn’t Work

  • Escalate smart: Ask to speak with a supervisor; write down names, dates, and promised callbacks; follow with an email summary if you can. Use the public complaint routes for taxis at Taxicab Authority and for non‑Clark taxi carriers at Nevada Transportation Authority.
  • Stack resources: Mix a short‑term bus pass with a longer‑term supportive service (WIOA/TANF/SNAP E&T). Ask about back‑dated reimbursements where allowed via EmployNV and DWSS NEON; verify SNAP E&T reimbursements are reasonable and necessary per USDA FNS memo.
  • Try 211 again: Agencies refill funds monthly; use filters for transportation, gas, paratransit, and medical rides at Nevada 211 Transportation; download the mobile app via App Store.

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección es una traducción producida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre la información en los enlaces oficiales.

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.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 content is for general information only. Program rules, fares, and funding change often and may vary by county or provider. Always confirm current availability and eligibility with the official agency before you travel or spend money. Where dollar amounts or dates are listed (for example, RTC fares or the NEMT mileage rate), they reflect the latest published information cited in this guide as of September 2025 and may change without notice. Call to confirm current availability before applying.

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