Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Last updated: September 2025

This guide puts the fastest steps first, then gives you every real option we could verify in New Jersey. Keep the links handy, call to confirm availability, and apply as early in the day as you can.

---

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call for a ride to medical care today: If you have NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid), book a ride with ModivCare NJ FamilyCare Transportation at 1-866-527-9933, check the online portal at TripCare ModivCare, and save the “Where’s My Ride” line 1-866-527-9934 for late drivers. Use the general help lines at NJ FamilyCare to confirm your eligibility. (nj.gov)
• Ask for a free one‑month transit pass if you just started work: If you recently left WorkFirst New Jersey (TANF), ask your County Board of Social Services about the post‑TANF “Support for Working Families” transportation benefit that offers a free one‑month NJ TRANSIT pass and up to six more months of free or low‑cost passes; start with WFNJ Support for Working Families and find your county at County Boards of Social Services. Confirm bus and rail fare options at NJ TRANSIT Fares. (nj.gov)
• Use transit discounts you already qualify for: If you have a disability or are 62+, apply for NJ TRANSIT Reduced Fare; if you’re a student, check NJ TRANSIT Student Pass; and if your employer has 20+ staff, ask HR to enroll you in Commuter Tax Benefits to pay for transit pre‑tax. For 2025, the federal pre‑tax transit limit is $325/month—verify in IRS Publication 15‑B. (njtransit.com)

---

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• NJ TRANSIT customer help: Fare Guide, Reduced Fare Office 1-973-491-7112, Access Link 973-491-4224. (njtransit.com)
• Work help and local passes: American Job Centers (Career Services), WIOA Adult & Dislocated Worker Supportive Services, Fund My Future training + transportation. (nj.gov)
• County social services: Find your County Board of Social Services, Division of Family Development Directory, NJ 2‑1‑1 (dial 2‑1‑1). (nj.gov)
• Medical rides for NJ FamilyCare: ModivCare NJ page 1-866-527-9933, Facility line 1-866-527-9945, Where’s My Ride 1-866-527-9934. (nj.gov)
• Domestic violence and court rides: NJ Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-572-7233, NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence, Victims of Crime Compensation Office (transport and relocation costs). (nj.gov)

---

How to Get a Discounted or Free Ride Fast

Start with the options that can approve you same day or within days, then move to applications that take weeks. Most programs need proof of identity and where you’re going. Keep copies of your benefits letter, pay stubs, and any appointment notices.

• Use NJ FamilyCare rides right away: Call ModivCare two days before your appointment; ask your clinic to use the facility line for faster “standing orders.” Track drivers with TripCare. Keep NJ FamilyCare numbers saved for complaints. (nj.gov)
• Ask your employer for pre‑tax transit benefits: Share NJ’s Commuter Benefit requirement, and note the 2025 federal cap is $325/month in IRS Pub. 15‑B. If your employer doesn’t offer it, HR must set it up for staff of 20+, and you can use it on NJ TRANSIT passes. (njtransit.com)
• If you just left cash assistance: Tell your county worker you need the WFNJ Support for Working Families transit pass now; it often starts with a free month and up to six more months of free/low‑cost passes. Ask how to pick up the pass or receive it via NJ TRANSIT’s app or WorkPass agency purchase. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call NJ 2‑1‑1 and ask for “Ride United transportation access” in your county; some 2‑1‑1s can dispatch one‑time Lyft trips when no other option exists. Check your local American Job Center for one‑time bus passes or gas cards tied to job services. (nj211.org)

---

NJ Transit Discounts and How to Use Them Today

NJ TRANSIT has real savings if you’re eligible or know the right pass. Combine them with employer pre‑tax benefits when you can.

• Reduced Fare for seniors and people with disabilities: Apply online for Reduced Fare or show Medicare for half‑fare on bus, rail, and light rail. If needed, get travel training from NJTIP @ Rutgers and call 1‑973‑491‑7112 for help with the ID. Use the Fare Guide to pick the cheapest option. (njtransit.com)
• Student Pass: If you’re in a participating college and taking at least two courses, enroll in Student Pass in your school portal for 25% off monthly passes and extra fall promos in the app. Confirm your zones using the Fare Guide or ask your school’s transit office. Some schools also share WorkPass purchase options for special programs. (njtransit.com)
• Family SuperSaver and weekend strategies: Two kids ages 5‑11 ride free with any fare payer on weekends and holidays; check the Bus Rider Guide and plan transfers with the Fare Guide. Combine with Commuter tax benefits when you buy monthly passes. (njtransit.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your trip is outside NJ TRANSIT or you can’t afford the fare, ask a local nonprofit about WorkPass agency tickets, check county shuttles below, or dial NJ 2‑1‑1 to ask about one‑time emergency rides. (njtransit.com)

---

Access Link and Paratransit — When Routes Don’t Work for You

If a disability makes fixed‑route transit hard to use, Access Link and county systems can help.

• Who qualifies and where it goes: Apply for Access Link ADA Paratransit if you can’t use buses/light rail due to a disability; service runs within ¾‑mile of fixed routes and shadows bus and light rail hours. Use 973‑491‑4224 to schedule; fares mirror local bus zones. Check Access Link Q&A for Riders’ Choice pilot options using taxis/TNCs at the same fare. (njtransit.com)
• How to apply and get evaluated: Start by calling 973‑491‑4224 option 1; some eligibility interviews occur by phone followed by verification. Learn basics at Access Link “Opens Doors”, and ask for a personal care attendant flag if needed. Use NJTIP @ Rutgers to build travel skills while you wait. (njtransit.com)
• If your child is homeless or displaced: Request transportation to the “school of origin” under McKinney‑Vento; contact your district liaison via the NJDOE homeless program and state coordinator. Ask the district to arrange bus, van, or mileage. Keep NJDOE eligibility page handy. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use county paratransit (see Resources by Region), and if it’s for medical care, book ModivCare NJ FamilyCare instead. If rides no‑show, call the “Where’s My Ride” line immediately. (nj.gov)

---

Work Trips, Job Interviews, Training, and Childcare Runs

Most job programs can reimburse or pre‑pay transportation. Ask about it on day one.

• SNAP Employment & Training (E&T): If you’re in SNAP E&T, ask for participant allowances to cover transportation, childcare, and items like uniforms. Get details from SNAP E&T FAQs and coordinate with your County Board of Social Services. (nj.gov)
• WIOA and American Job Centers: When enrolled in WIOA services, supportive services can include transportation vouchers, bus passes, or even car repair help in some counties. Use Career Services and ask about your local board’s caps. Check if you qualify for Fund My Future support of up to $9,600 for training and wraparound services like transportation. (nj.gov)
• Post‑TANF work supports: If you left TANF and are working, ask for Support for Working Families transportation passes (free first month, then up to six months free/low‑cost). If your hours changed, have your employer verify your schedule for continued passes. Use NJ TRANSIT ticket pages to match the right pass to your commute. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about emergency one‑time rides through United Way Ride United via NJ 2‑1‑1, and check county shuttles below. If you’re a student parent, ask your college for Student Pass and campus shuttles. (unitedway.org)

---

County and Regional Transportation Options Single Moms Actually Use

Many counties run low‑cost or fare‑free shuttles that connect to NJ TRANSIT. Pick the one in your area first.

• Hunterdon County LINK: Routes like 14, 15, 16, and 23 run weekdays and are currently fare‑free; see Ride the LINK, check Route 14, and Route 23 for schedules. Link to job sites like RVCC via transfers. (ridethelink.com)
• Somerset County SCOOT/DASH/CAT: $2 per trip on SCOOT, DASH, and CAT; call 908‑231‑7115. Check news posts for service changes. Some routes connect to New Brunswick Rail. (somersetcountynj.gov)
• Ocean County Ocean Ride: Fixed routes cost $2generalpublic,$1 for seniors/disabled; Reserve‑A‑Ride is $6roundtrip($3 with PAAD). See Bus Routes and contact 732‑736‑8989. (co.ocean.nj.us)
• Middlesex County RIDE (formerly MCAT): Community shuttles, reservation service for seniors/disabled, and RIDE On Demand in parts of New Brunswick/North Brunswick; call 1‑800‑221‑3520. Use RIDE Routes to plan transfers. (middlesexcountynj.gov)
• Gloucester County Pureland East‑West Shuttle: Connects to job sites at Pureland Industrial Complex with free transfers to the Commodore Shuttle; see Pureland East‑West Shuttle and alerts. Ask Cross County Connection TMA about more South Jersey shuttles. (gloucestercountynj.gov)
• TMAs across NJ: Transportation Management Associations offer commuter shuttles, carpools, and trip planning. Find yours at NJDOT TMA list, then ask about discounts and childcare‑friendly routes. If you need help with transit skills, ask for NJTIP @ Rutgers training. (nj-dot.nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try municipal pilots like Via Newark (fare‑free weekends) or ask your city if they partner with Via Jersey City. If none exist, ask your TMA about vanpools and employer shuttles. (city.ridewithvia.com)

---

Insurance, License, and Car Ownership When Money Is Tight

You might need a car for night shifts or daycare pickups. These programs can lower your cost or restore your license.

• Dollar‑a‑Day insurance (SAIP) for Medicaid‑A: If you have federal Medicaid with hospitalization, the Special Auto Insurance Policy is $365/year($360 if paid up front) and covers emergency treatment and catastrophic brain/spinal injuries; it does not include liability. Use the DOBI SAIP page and the PAIP/assigned risk contacts to find a producer. For complaints, call the Insurance Ombudsman. (nj.gov)
• Assigned‑risk insurance (PAIP): If you’re denied regular coverage, contact the New Jersey Personal Automobile Insurance Plan office or find a PAIP producer from DOBI’s insurer list. Ask about payment plans and basic policy options. (nj.gov)
• Restoring a suspended license: Pay the MVC restoration fee ($100) and at least 5% of any surcharges; confirm by calling MVC Surcharge Administration via MVC surcharges. If you need ID to apply for jobs, learn the 6 Points of ID rules and consider a Standard license if you can’t get REAL ID yet. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask legal aid or a navigator about court payment plans and fine relief. If domestic violence or a crime affected your ability to drive, ask VCCO about medically‑related transportation or court travel costs. (njoag.gov)

---

Medical, Court, and Safety‑Related Transportation

When rides are for health, safety, or court, use the programs designed for those trips.

• Medicaid/NJ FamilyCare rides: Use ModivCare NJ for non‑emergency care; book two business days in advance by phone, online via TripCare, and use the late‑driver line for return trips. Keep the DDS transportation page for reference. (nj.gov)
• Domestic violence: Call the NJ Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑572‑7233 and find your county program through the NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence; ask about rides to shelter, court, and medical care. For restraining orders, follow State Police TRO steps. (nj.gov)
• Crime victims: Apply to the Victims of Crime Compensation Office for “medically related transportation” and “court attendance transportation”; see the official benefits list for caps and categories. Legal guides like LSNJ explain per‑mile reimbursement limits—verify with VCCO before travel. (njoag.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NJ 2‑1‑1 for “Ride United” availability and call your hospital social worker to arrange a voucher if you were discharged late. If court travel is denied, ask the prosecutor’s victim/witness office about taxi or mileage. (nj211.org)

---

Quick‑Reference Tables You Can Screenshot

Table A — Fastest Transportation Options by Situation

Table B — County and Regional Shuttles (Examples)

Table C — Who Pays for What

Table D — Transit Discounts You Might Miss

Table E — Documents Needed (Most Common Cases)

---

How to Stop a Transportation Crisis Today

• My bus pass runs out before payday: Ask your AJC about a one‑time supportive service bus pass, check county shuttles that are cheaper or free, and ask your employer’s HR to rush pre‑tax transit enrollment so more of your next check is yours. (nj.gov)
• My car insurance lapsed: If you have Medicaid with hospitalization, see SAIP “Dollar‑a‑Day”; if denied by regular insurers, call PAIP assigned risk and shop the DOBI insurer list. Don’t drive uninsured—fines and impound fees cost more. (nj.gov)
• I can’t get to court or the hospital: For DV or other crimes, check VCCO for court/medical travel. If you’re a Medicaid member, book ModivCare or ask the hospital social worker to arrange a voucher. Call NJ 2‑1‑1 if you’re stuck. (njoag.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s school about McKinney‑Vento transportation if you’re in temporary housing. For disabilities, push for Access Link and training from NJTIP. (nj.gov)

---

Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Links

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask American Job Centers about safe‑commute supports and report harassment on buses to NJ TRANSIT Customer Service. If you need confidential relocation or court travel, call VCCO. For state help lines with TTY access, see DHS Hotlines. (nj.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply for Access Link, ask for a personal care attendant fare waiver, and get free travel training from NJTIP @ Rutgers. If your child is homeless, demand McKinney‑Vento transportation immediately. (njtransit.com)
• Veteran single mothers: Use reduced fares under NJ TRANSIT military discounts, ask the VA social worker to coordinate rides with VCCO when applicable, and check Career Services for veteran‑focused job rides. (njtransit.com)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can get a Standard license with 6 Points of ID + ITIN or affidavit; book transit training via NJTIP. For multilingual hotlines and TTY, see DCF/DHS hotlines and ask for interpreters. (nj.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: While NJ has limited tribal transportation programs, families can still use NJ 2‑1‑1 for local rides, apply for SNAP E&T transport help, and use county shuttles for access to clinics and schools. (nj211.org)
• Rural single moms: Prioritize county shuttles, Ocean Ride Reserve‑A‑Ride, or Hunterdon LINK. If you drive, compare SAIP vs. basic policies and push for WIOA supportive services for gas or repairs. (co.ocean.nj.us)
• Single fathers: All programs here apply equally—use WFNJ Support for Working Families transportation, Commuter tax benefits, and county shuttles. Ask your AJC for childcare/transport combos. (nj.gov)
• Language and accessibility: Request large‑print applications and TTY services when calling DHS hotlines, tell ModivCare if you need a wheelchair van, and ask Access Link about reasonable modifications. (nj.gov)

---

Resources by Region — Concrete Examples

• North Jersey: Use Middlesex County RIDE On‑Demand near New Brunswick; in Somerset, ride SCOOT/DASH/CAT for $2; in Hunterdon, all LINK routes are fare‑free. For PATH transfers and light rail, plan with the Fare Guide. (middlesexcountynj.gov)
• Central Jersey: If you have a Medicaid appointment, lock in ModivCare rides early; for school‑age kids, request McKinney‑Vento transportation; for new jobs, ask for WFNJ post‑TANF passes. (nj.gov)
• South Jersey: For jobs near Pureland, use the Pureland East‑West Shuttle; for county services, ask your Board of Social Services; and call your TMA for local shuttles. (gloucestercountynj.gov)

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to ask for transportation until after you enroll: Tell your AJC or SNAP E&T caseworker on day one that you need bus passes or gas help to participate. Confirm in writing. Use Fund My Future if eligible. (nj.gov)
• Applying for Access Link when you live outside the ¾‑mile service area: Check the route map first at Access Link ADA page, or you’ll get denied. If you’re just not confident on buses, ask NJTIP for training. (njtransit.com)
• Ignoring employer pre‑tax benefits: In 2025 you can shield up to $325/month pre‑tax under IRS rules; this is money you keep. Share NJ’s law with HR. (irs.gov)

---

Reality Check

• Funding can be limited: SNAP E&T and WIOA supportive funds vary by county and time of year. Ask your AJC if caps apply and get approvals in writing. Expect 10–15 business days for non‑crisis approvals. (nj.gov)
• Transit fares changed in 2024 and may rise: NJ TRANSIT fares rose in July 2024 with planned 3% annual increases; check the Fare Guide before budgeting. Ask your county shuttle if they’re fare‑free like LINK. (apnews.com)
• Driver shortages affect county shuttles: Some routes reduce frequency; verify Somerset SCOOT notices and sign up for alerts on county pages. Keep backup trips with NJ 2‑1‑1. (somersetcountynj.gov)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Medical ride: ModivCare NJ • 1‑866‑527‑9933 • TripCare. (nj.gov)
• Post‑TANF work pass: WFNJ SWF – Transportation • Contact your County Board. (nj.gov)
• Reduced Fare/Access Link: Reduced Fare • Access Link • 973‑491‑4224. (njtransit.com)
• Work rides/training: Career Services/AJCs • Fund My Future. (nj.gov)
• Emergency: NJ 2‑1‑1 • DV Hotline 1‑800‑572‑7233 • VCCO. (nj211.org)

---

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

• Photo ID and address proof: Use 6 Points of ID for MVC needs; carry an ID for transit offices. (nj.gov)
• Benefit or income proof: Bring SNAP/TANF/Medicaid letters or pay stubs for SNAP E&T or WFNJ SWF. (nj.gov)
• Appointment letter: For ModivCare rides or VCCO claims. (nj.gov)
• School or work schedule: Needed for Student Pass and AJC supportive services. (njtransit.com)
• Disability verification: For Reduced Fare and Access Link. (njtransit.com)

---

If Your Application Gets Denied — Troubleshooting

• Denied by Access Link: Ask for the written reason, request reconsideration, and submit additional medical info. While waiting, use county paratransit and ModivCare for medical trips. (nj.gov)
• No SNAP E&T transport: Confirm participant allowances in writing from SNAP E&T and ask your AJC for WIOA funds as a backup. (nj.gov)
• WFNJ pass denied: Cite the Support for Working Families page and ask for a supervisor review; request a one‑time WorkPass ticket through a partner agency. (nj.gov)

---

Real‑World Examples

• Ocean County mom on chemo: She pre‑booked ModivCare for three months of treatments, used Ocean Ride Reserve‑A‑Ride for pharmacy trips, and confirmed eligibility with County Social Services. (nj.gov)
• Somerset night‑shift worker: She used Commuter Tax Benefits to buy a monthly pass, rode SCOOT to the rail station, and got a one‑time WIOA supportive service pass for a week between paychecks. (njtransit.com)
• Hunterdon student parent: She enrolled in Student Pass through her college, accessed fare‑free LINK to RVCC, and used SNAP E&T to cover childcare while in class. (njtransit.com)

---

FAQs — New Jersey Transportation Help for Single Moms

1. Can I get a free NJ TRANSIT pass when I start a new job?
   Yes, if you recently left WorkFirst New Jersey. Ask for the Support for Working Families transportation benefit: one free month plus up to six months of free or low‑cost passes. Pick up details from your County Board. Check routes at the Fare Guide. (nj.gov)
2. What’s the cheapest way to ride NJ TRANSIT every day?
   Use Commuter Tax Benefits at work and check monthly passes; if you’re a student, sign up for Student Pass. Seniors and people with disabilities get half‑fare via Reduced Fare. (njtransit.com)
3. I have Medicaid. Who sets up my ride?
   ModivCare handles non‑emergency rides statewide. Call 1‑866‑527‑9933 two business days ahead or use TripCare. If late, use “Where’s My Ride.” (nj.gov)
4. My disability makes buses hard. How fast can I get Access Link?
   Apply via Access Link ADA. Some interviews are by phone; approval depends on disability impact and the ¾‑mile rule around routes. Ask NJTIP for training during the wait. (njtransit.com)
5. Can job programs pay for gas or car repairs?
   Many WIOA AJCs can; amounts vary by county. SNAP E&T offers participant allowances. Ask on day one. (nj.gov)
6. I was a victim of crime. Will the state pay for court or medical travel?
   Possibly. Apply to VCCO; it covers medically related and court attendance transportation (caps apply). See benefits. (njoag.gov)
7. What’s the 2025 pre‑tax transit limit?
   The federal cap is $325/month; see IRS Pub. 15‑B. NJ requires employers with 20+ staff to offer pre‑tax transit; share NJ TRANSIT’s commuter page with HR. (irs.gov)
8. Are there fare‑free local shuttles?
   Yes. Hunterdon LINK is fare‑free. Many counties have low‑cost shuttles like Somerset SCOOT or Ocean Ride. Find more via the TMA list. (ridethelink.com)
9. Can I get a license without REAL ID?
   Yes. You can hold a Standard license. See REAL ID/Standard differences and bring 6 Points of ID. (nj.gov)
10. Where do I get county social services help?
    Use the County Board directory for addresses and phones; for Ocean County moves in 2025, see the Ocean Board update and local contact page. (nj.gov)

---

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección es un resumen breve con enlaces clave. La traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA.

• Viajes médicos para NJ FamilyCare: Llame a ModivCare al 1‑866‑527‑9933 o programe en TripCare; use “Where’s My Ride” si el conductor llega tarde. (nj.gov)
• Pases de transporte post‑TANF: Pida Support for Working Families (un mes gratis y hasta seis meses gratis/de bajo costo). Busque su oficina en Condados. (nj.gov)
• Descuentos de NJ TRANSIT: Tarifa Reducida, Pase de Estudiante, y Beneficios fiscales para viajeros (límite 2025: $325/mes según IRS). (njtransit.com)
• Paratránsito y formación: Access Link y NJTIP @ Rutgers. (njtransit.com)
• Líneas de ayuda: NJ 2‑1‑1, Violencia Doméstica, VCCO para transporte a tribunales y médico. (nj211.org)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• NJ TRANSIT Fare Guide and Reduced Fare
• NJ Department of Human Services — SNAP E&T and WFNJ
• NJ Department of Labor — Career Services/WIOA
• NJ FamilyCare/ModivCare Transportation
• NJ Department of Education — McKinney‑Vento
• NJ Department of Banking & Insurance — SAIP/PAIP
• NJDOT Transportation Management Associations
• NJ 2‑1‑1 Partnership

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 for general information. It is not legal advice or a government notice. Programs can change by county and funding. Always confirm with the official agency before you spend money or make travel plans. Use the provided links to verify eligibility, documents, and current availability.

---

🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 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