Transportation Help for Single Mothers in North Dakota

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is packed with practical, verified ways to get to work, school, child care, and medical care in North Dakota—fast, legally, and without wasting time. Every program or agency mentioned is linked and phone numbers are included where available. Always confirm details before applying because fares, eligibility rules, and ride options can change during the year.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call or text FirstLink 2‑1‑1 and ask for same‑day ride or gas help, bus pass programs near you, and referral to transit that runs today.

  FirstLink covers all of North Dakota, answers 24/7, and can conference in local agencies if you are in crisis or unsafe housing. (myfirstlink.org)

• Call your health plan and request an urgent medical ride through North Dakota Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for you or your child.

  Ask for same‑day rides when medically needed, mileage reimbursement if you can drive, or wheelchair/ambulance transport if required. Keep your appointment letter handy. (hhs.nd.gov)

• If you live in a city with fixed‑route service, go to the nearest transit center and buy a day pass—then book paratransit if needed.

  In Grand Forks use Cities Area Transit; in Fargo use MATBUS; in Bismarck/Mandan use Capital Area Transit; in Minot use Minot City Transit and Souris Basin Transportation for ADA paratransit. (grandforksgov.com)

Quick Help — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• ND Medicaid Member Support: 1‑866‑614‑6005 (TTY 711) — ask for NEMT rides, mileage reimbursement, meals/lodging when medically approved.

  Also note out‑of‑state travel approvals and vendor enrollment info. (hhs.nd.gov)

• NDDOT Statewide Transit Map: use the interactive map to find your local rural or city provider by county and schedule rides.

  Great for rural moms who need door‑to‑door buses. (dot.nd.gov)

• Veterans transportation (DAV/VTS & county vans): for veteran moms or caregivers; rides to Fargo VA and VA‑authorized appointments.

  Call your County VSO or Fargo VA; check routes and schedules online. (veterans.nd.gov)

• Valley Senior Services (Cass, Traill, Steele, Ransom, Sargent, Richland): Metro Senior Ride for age 60+ and rural public routes.

  Schedule at 1‑701‑356‑7433; see fares and counties served. (valleyseniorservices.org)

• Community Action (all regions): ask for gas cards, repair help, or case management; find your regional office.

  Use CAPND’s directory to reach your county’s office. (capnd.org)

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How to Get a Ride to a Medical Appointment in North Dakota Today

Start with the ride that gets you there safest and on time. For urgent care and scheduled checkups, North Dakota Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) can arrange public transit, taxis, wheelchair vans, mileage reimbursement for a friend or family member who enrolls as a provider, and lodging/meals when medically needed. Call 1‑866‑614‑6005 and ask for NEMT; keep your appointment details, Medicaid ID, and pickup/drop‑off addresses ready. (hhs.nd.gov)

If you receive Medicaid Expansion through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, ask your plan about NEMT options and billing rules. Providers must be enrolled with both HHS and BCBSND’s expansion network; members can call the number on the back of their card for ride benefits. Expect some rides to need advance notice. (bcbsnd.com)

If you’re not on Medicaid, check city or rural transit first. In Fargo‑Moorhead‑West Fargo, fixed‑route buses are the cheapest, and MAT Paratransit serves eligible riders who cannot use fixed routes; in Grand Forks, Cities Area Transit (CAT) offers fixed routes plus Dial‑A‑Ride; in Bismarck‑Mandan, Capital Area Transit has fixed routes and Bis‑Man Paratransit; in Minot, Minot City Transit runs fixed routes while Souris Basin Transportation handles ADA paratransit and demand response. Fares are low compared with taxis, and many agencies allow personal care attendants to ride free. (matbus.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic’s social worker to submit a same‑day transportation request, or call FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to locate nonprofits that provide medical ride vouchers or mileage help. If you’re a veteran or caregiver traveling to VA‑authorized care, contact DAV/VTS for free van routes to the Fargo VA or county‑run veteran vans. (myfirstlink.org)

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Understand Your Main Transportation Options in North Dakota

North Dakota is a “transit‑everywhere” state: urban buses in larger cities, extensive rural demand‑response buses across counties, ADA paratransit, Medicaid NEMT, intercity bus and rail, and veteran shuttles. Use the NDDOT Statewide Transit page and interactive provider map to identify who serves your town, then call dispatch to schedule. Most rural systems require booking the day before; ADA paratransit often needs eligibility paperwork with up to 21 days to process. (dot.nd.gov)

Keep a backup: intercity coach and rail travel connect many ND cities. Jefferson Lines runs statewide stops, including Fargo, Bismarck, Dickinson, Grand Forks, and Williston; Amtrak’s Empire Builder serves east‑west travel with daily stops in Fargo, Grand Forks, Devils Lake, Rugby, Minot, Stanley, and Williston. Use these when you need to reach specialists or family out of town. (jeffersonlines.com)

State planning continues to invest in roads, transit, and safety. Watch NDDOT’s planning updates and the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, and learn about the Flex Fund grant program that improves local roads and bridges—important if you drive long rural distances. Better corridors can shorten commutes to child care and jobs. (dot.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If no bus reaches your home, ask the provider about “deviated route” or curb‑to‑curb pickups; ask neighbors to enroll as Medicaid NEMT drivers if you’re eligible; or use FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to locate volunteer driver programs near you. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Medicaid NEMT ride requests: 1‑866‑614‑6005 (TTY 711); email applyforhelp@nd.gov; ask for mileage reimbursement if you can drive.

  Confirm whether the July 1, 2025 mileage rate change affects your reimbursement amount. (hhs.nd.gov)

• Fargo–Moorhead–West Fargo transit: MATBUS customer service 1‑701‑232‑7500; discount fares for seniors, Medicare card holders, people with disabilities, and K‑12 youth; college U‑Pass is fare‑free on fixed routes.

  MATBUS business and discount pass details online. (matbus.com)

• Grand Forks transit: Cities Area Transit fares increased in April 2025; check current full/reduced fare, day pass, and paratransit rates before you buy.

  Purchase passes at the Metro Transit Center (450 Kittson Ave). (grandforksherald.com)

• Bismarck–Mandan transit: Capital Area Transit fixed routes; Bis‑Man Paratransit eligibility can take up to 21 days; seniors 65+ ride free on CAT with valid ID per current fare page.

  Token Transit app allows mobile ticketing. (bismantransit.com)

• Minot transit: Minot City Transit fixed routes; ADA paratransit provided by Souris Basin Transportation; Minot’s shift to “urban” status changed paratransit certification rules in 2025—apply ASAP.

  Check rider scheduling deadlines and service areas. (minotnd.gov)

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What You Can Get — Benefits and Who Qualifies

North Dakota programs cover more than bus rides. Medicaid NEMT can pay a driver you know (once enrolled), cover taxis or wheelchair vans, and reimburse meals and lodging when medical travel needs an overnight stay. Ask about out‑of‑state appointments; you usually need prior approval at least two weeks ahead. (hhs.nd.gov)

For jobs and training, TANF’s JOBS supportive services can pay up to $150/month for transportation, help with license reinstatement fees, basic liability insurance (limited), and essential car repairs up to annual caps. If your case just closed, ask about up to six months of post‑TANF transportation help to keep your job. (nd.gov)

If you’re on SNAP and participating in SNAP Employment & Training (NDWORKS), the state can reimburse up to $150/month for transportation—bus pass, gas, or rideshare—when you engage in E&T activities; confirm exact amounts and keep records. (nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your Human Service Zone office through HHS to ask for case management, or call Community Action in your region to request emergency gas cards, repair referrals, or employment support. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Key State Programs and How to Apply

Sources: ND HHS Medicaid Member Handbook and NEMT pages; ND TANF policy; ND SNAP E&T policy; local transit ADA notices. Always confirm current limits. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker about “good cause” or crisis exceptions, and request an interim bus pass from a local nonprofit while your application is pending. For medical care, ask your clinic to schedule rides through their social work team. (myfirstlink.org)

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City Transit at a Glance — Fares You’ll Actually Pay

Fares can change; check before you ride or load a pass. MATBUS and Bis‑Man support mobile ticketing via Token Transit; CAT offers multiple pass types; Grand Forks implemented a 33% fare increase in 2025. (matbus.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about discount ID cards, student passes, veteran free‑ride rules, and personal care attendant ride policies. If paratransit is full, ask dispatch about same‑day cancellations you can claim. (matbus.com)

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Rural Transit That Comes to You

North Dakota invests heavily in rural buses that pick you up curb‑to‑curb. Use the NDDOT Transit Provider Map to find your county system, then call at least one business day ahead. Dispatchers can explain out‑of‑town medical days (to Bismarck, Minot, Dickinson, Grand Forks, Fargo) and how to schedule return trips. (dot.nd.gov)

Real examples: Souris Basin Transportation serves Minot and a seven‑county region with origin‑to‑destination rides; riders must usually book by 2:00 p.m. the day before for weekend and Monday trips. Hazen Busing runs weekday dial‑a‑ride with posted round‑trip rates to Bismarck and Dickinson. Dickinson Public Transit posts in‑town and out‑of‑town fares and accepts punch cards and credit cards. These are lifelines for rural moms getting to work, WIC, or specialty care. (sourisbasintransit.com)

If you’re 60+, check Valley Senior Services for Metro Senior Ride in the metro and public rural routes in six counties; fares are affordable and grocery bus days exist in Fargo. If you are a veteran, many rural providers waive fares to medical appointments—ask dispatch to confirm. (valleyseniorservices.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask if the system partners with volunteer drivers; if funds are tight, ask Community Action for a punch card or gas card while you wait for your next paycheck. (capnd.org)

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How to Use Medicaid NEMT Without Delays

• Step 1 — Call: 1‑866‑614‑6005. Say you need a “non‑emergency medical transportation” ride. If you can drive, ask about mileage reimbursement; if a relative can drive, ask how they enroll to get paid.

  Have your Medicaid ID, appointment date/time, clinic address, and whether you need a car seat or wheelchair space. (hhs.nd.gov)

• Step 2 — Choose mode: Ask which modes are covered today—public transit, taxi, private vehicle mileage, wheelchair/stretcher van, or non‑emergency ambulance between facilities. For overnight trips, ask about lodging and meals. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Step 3 — Confirm rates: North Dakota adjusted private vehicle mileage limits effective July 1, 2025; ask the agent for the current cents‑per‑mile rate and any receipts you must submit. If you’re on Medicaid Expansion, call the BCBSND expansion line for plan‑specific rules. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a ride is denied, ask for a written reason and appeal rights; request clinic support to document medical need. If your needs are outside Medicaid (work, child care), ask TANF JOBS or SNAP E&T for transportation assistance in writing. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Car Ownership, Insurance, and Safety — What to Know

If you must drive, keep your car legal. North Dakota requires minimum liability of $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury and $25,000propertydamage,plus$30,000 basic no‑fault and uninsured/underinsured coverage; the Insurance Department explains these in plain language and how ride‑hail insurance works if you gig drive. If no insurer will cover you, the North Dakota Automobile Insurance Plan provides assigned‑risk coverage. (insurance.nd.gov)

If a suspended license or fines are blocking your job start, TANF JOBS can pay certain reinstatement fees, defensive driving classes, or basic liability premiums within yearly limits. Keep every receipt and get pre‑approval. For repairs, JOBS supportive services can fund essential safety repairs up to their cap; they cannot buy a vehicle. (nd.gov)

If you choose a city ride instead of driving, check airport and intercity options. Hector International Airport posts ground transportation and car rentals; Jefferson Lines covers intercity bus statewide. Note that the Landline shuttle between Fargo and MSP ended March 17, 2025, so plan alternate connections. (fargoairport.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your insurer about a hardship payment plan; ask a nonprofit like Community Action or St. Vincent de Paul if they can help with a one‑time premium or repair so you can keep working. (capnd.org)

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Local Organizations That Can Help With Rides, Gas, or Repairs

You won’t always find “transportation help” listed on a website, but many nonprofits quietly provide gas cards, bus passes, or short‑term ride help alongside shelter, food, or case management. In Fargo, YWCA Cass Clay supports families fleeing violence and can connect shelter residents to transportation; Handi‑Wheels Transportation serves people with mobility limits and accepts Medicaid for eligible medical trips; Valley Senior Services runs Metro Senior Ride for seniors 60+. Call early because schedules fill fast. (ywcacassclay.org)

In Bismarck–Mandan, the Abused Adult Resource Center supports survivors and can help with logistics like transportation during crisis; Bis‑Man Transit and West River Transit cover city and rural needs; ask West River about multi‑county rural rides. Keep these in your phone if you must move quickly for safety. (abusedadultresourcecenter.com)

In Grand Forks, St. Joseph’s Social Care runs “Cars for a Cause” and lists emergency assistance that can include travel for medical emergencies; Cities Area Transit increased fares in 2025—check latest passes; CVIC provides crisis support with mobile advocates and may assist with transport for safety planning. (stjosephssocialcaregf.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call FirstLink 2‑1‑1 and ask the specialist to search for “transportation,” “gas card,” “bus pass,” or “volunteer driver” in your county; ask to be transferred live to any agency that shows funds today. (myfirstlink.org)

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Resources by Region — Who to Call Where You Live

• Cass County (Fargo, West Fargo, Horace): MATBUS fixed‑route and paratransit; Metro Senior Ride for 60+; Handi‑Wheels for wheelchair rides; VA Veterans Transportation Service within the metro for enrolled veterans.

  Confirm fares and book 3–5 days ahead for senior rides; VA rides run weekdays. (matbus.com)

• Burleigh–Morton (Bismarck–Mandan): Capital Area Transit fixed routes; Bis‑Man Paratransit; West River Transit covers many rural towns.

  Paratransit eligibility can take up to 21 days; ask about same‑day cancellations. (bismantransit.com)

• Ward and surrounding (Minot area): Minot City Transit fixed routes; Souris Basin Transportation handles ADA paratransit and regional rides; 2025 urban reclassification changed ADA certification rules—apply now if you used demand response before.

  Door‑to‑door services extended through 2025; confirm booking deadlines. (minotnd.gov)

• Grand Forks region: Cities Area Transit fixed routes, dial‑a‑ride; St. Joseph’s Social Care emergency help including vehicle donations; CVIC for safety planning and transport support.

  Fares rose 33% in April 2025; check pass prices. (grandforksgov.com)

• Dickinson and Stark County: Dickinson Public Transit/Elder Care offers in‑town and out‑of‑town rides; check posted fares and payment types.

  Reserve early; punch cards accepted. (public-transit.org)

• Small towns like Hazen and Beulah: City dial‑a‑ride with scheduled Bismarck/Dickinson days; language assistance and reasonable modifications available on request.

  Call dispatch to reserve; bring exact fare. (hazennd.gov)

• Veteran moms statewide: DAV vans and county veteran vans to VA medical care; some county and rural providers waive fares for veterans to medical appointments—ask at booking.

  Schedule through your County VSO or VA Fargo transportation desk. (veterans.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use NDDOT’s transit map to locate a neighboring county’s provider if yours is full; many systems will pick up at county lines with coordination. (dot.nd.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing ADA paratransit deadlines. Applications can take up to 21 days in Bismarck–Mandan and require medical verification. Don’t wait until your first appointment week; apply now and carry a copy of your conditional approval on early trips. (bismantransit.com)
• Assuming Medicaid covers every ride. NEMT is for medical care with Medicaid providers and often needs prior authorization. Work and child‑care rides are not included—ask TANF JOBS or SNAP E&T for those, in writing. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Buying passes without checking new fares. Grand Forks raised fares in April 2025; Fargo proposed changes in 2025; prices vary for day, 14‑day, and 31‑day passes. Double‑check current rates before loading your card. (grandforksherald.com)
• Driving uninsured. Minimum coverage is required by law; ask the Insurance Department about assigned‑risk options if you were denied. Tickets for no insurance can snowball and cost you your license. (insurance.nd.gov)

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Reality Check — Delays and Funding Gaps to Expect

Reality check: Rural transit rides are not on‑demand like Uber. Most systems need booking by 2:00 p.m. the day before, and holiday weeks fill up early; plan medical and child‑care rides now for next week. Souris Basin and other rural providers post scheduling rules—follow them to avoid no‑show fees. (sourisbasintransit.com)

Reality check: Medicaid NEMT mileage rates and modes change with legislative limits and fee schedules. As of July 1, 2025, North Dakota adjusted private vehicle mileage limits. Always ask the agent to state today’s cents‑per‑mile and whether meals/lodging are authorized for your trip. (hhs.nd.gov)

Reality check: City fare changes happen. Grand Forks fares rose 33% in April 2025, and Fargo discussed fare and service changes in August 2025. Build a $5–$10 weekly cushion for transit, and ask employers about transit passes. (grandforksherald.com)

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Specific How‑Tos by Topic

How to Stop a Medical No‑Show Today in Fargo or Grand Forks

If the bus won’t work in time, call Medicaid NEMT and ask for same‑day taxi or wheelchair van if medically necessary. In Fargo, check Handi‑Wheels for mobility rides; in Grand Forks, call CAT Dial‑A‑Ride if you have ADA approval. Ask the clinic social worker to place the ride if you’re overwhelmed. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Reschedule your appointment to a rural transit medical day or a time with more bus frequency; ask your plan about telehealth if appropriate. (hhs.nd.gov)

How to Get a Ride to Work in Bismarck–Mandan This Week

Use CAT fixed routes for regular shifts and Bis‑Man Paratransit only if you’re ADA‑eligible and cannot use fixed routes. If you’re in TANF JOBS or SNAP E&T, request a monthly bus pass or gas stipend up to program limits. Employers can buy discounted MATBUS business passes for Fargo workers—ask HR in Bismarck if they’ll mirror the idea with CAT passes. (bismantransit.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Community Action Region VII about short‑term gas vouchers tied to new job starts. If shifts fall when buses don’t run, ask your supervisor for start/stop time shifts that line up with routes. (capnd.org)

How to Reach a Specialist Out of Town From Minot

Check Souris Basin Transportation intercity options and medical days; for longer trips, compare Jefferson Lines to your destination and Amtrak Empire Builder for east‑west routes. If it’s a Medicaid‑covered specialist out of state, request pre‑approval at least two weeks before travel and ask about lodging/meals. (sourisbasintransit.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider whether telehealth or visiting outreach clinics can meet your needs sooner. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Application Checklist — Screenshot‑Friendly

• Photo ID or documents for you and kids (REAL ID, license, state ID, or birth certificate as applicable)

  For REAL ID requirements and appointments, visit NDDOT’s driver page and checklist. (dot.nd.gov)

• Proof of benefits or eligibility (Medicaid ID, SNAP/TANF case number)

  Keep caseworker emails, approval letters, and plan cards handy. (hhs.nd.gov)

• Appointment proof (date, time, clinic address, doctor’s name)

  For out‑of‑state Medicaid trips, request prior approval two weeks ahead. (hhs.nd.gov)

• Transportation need details (wheelchair, car seat, attendant)

  ADA paratransit may require medical verification and up to 21 days to process. (bismantransit.com)

• Receipts and mileage logs if seeking reimbursement (gas, lodging, meals)

  Mileage limits and meal/lodging reimbursement follow current fee schedules; verify rates when you book. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

• Get the denial in writing. Ask for the specific policy reason and the appeal process; Medicaid and TANF must explain denial reasons and give hearing rights. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Fix the gap. For paratransit, provide updated medical documentation; for TANF/SNAP E&T, ask your worker to revise the Employability Plan to show miles to work or training and request mileage or pass support again. (nd.gov)
• Bridge the ride. Ask FirstLink 2‑1‑1 for ride vouchers, church help, or Community Action gas assistance during the appeal. (myfirstlink.org)

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask transit for a Title VI or nondiscrimination contact if you experience bias on board or at booking. Request safe pickup locations and share concerns with the agency’s civil rights office. FirstLink 2‑1‑1 can connect you to affirming shelters and services that can also help with bus passes or gas cards. (myfirstlink.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Use ADA paratransit for door‑to‑door rides; ask for “reasonable modifications” like door‑through‑door help where available. For medical travel, Medicaid NEMT can approve wheelchair vans or a paid driver you choose. Ask for TTY 711 if you need relay. (bismantransit.com)

Veteran single mothers: Use DAV vans to Fargo VA, Veterans Transportation Service in the Fargo metro, and ask your county about veteran‑specific free rides to any VA‑authorized appointment. Keep your VA ID ready when you board. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Ask for free language interpretation when booking Medicaid NEMT or at transit offices. Bring immigration‑safe IDs (passport or consular ID) for paratransit applications if needed; paratransit eligibility is based on disability, not status. Many agencies note that translation is available upon request. (hhs.nd.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: On Fort Berthold, contact MHA DOT for tribal motor vehicle services and updates; check Standing Rock Public Transportation for local routes; use tribal Head Start and clinic social workers to locate ride funds. Tribal transit often coordinates with county or city systems for connections. (mhadot.com)

Rural single moms: Plan around set medical days to hub cities. Use the NDDOT transit map to find your provider, book a day ahead, and ask dispatch about child car seats and driver assistance with strollers. (dot.nd.gov)

Single fathers raising children: All programs here apply regardless of gender. Ask TANF JOBS or SNAP E&T for transportation funds tied to work or training. Call FirstLink 2‑1‑1 if you hit a dead end. (nd.gov)

Language access and accessibility: Ask agencies for large‑print rider guides, Braille upon request, and relay lines. HHS lists TTY 711 and “free translation available” for members; city transit agencies accept reasonable modification requests. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a civil rights complaint with the transit agency or HHS if you’re denied access based on disability or language; ask for a supervisor and document names, dates, and times. (hhs.nd.gov)

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More Ways to Stretch Your Travel Dollar

• Use unlimited day passes when running multiple errands; CAT and MATBUS day passes are usually cheaper than paying cash for several one‑ways. Employers can subsidize MATBUS business passes at a discount—ask HR. (grandforksgov.com)
• If you drive long distances for work or E&T, write down every mile and date; TANF calculates mileage if you’re reimbursed by miles instead of a flat stipend. SNAP E&T reimbursements pay in the month after activity—plan your gas spend. (nd.gov)
• If you’re 60+, use Valley Senior Services for $3one‑wayridesinthemetroand$1 to community dining sites; grocery buses save time and reduce extra trips. (valleyseniorservices.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Community Action about punch cards for your rural system or emergency gas help, and check St. Vincent de Paul local conferences (Bismarck, Dickinson, others) for one‑time gas card help. (capnd.org)

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Head Start, School Transportation, and Homeless Student Rights

Local Head Start/Early Head Start programs may offer bus options to enrolled children; call your local grantee listed by the Department of Public Instruction. School‑age kids who lose housing have rights under McKinney‑Vento, including transportation to the school of origin when it’s in the child’s best interest; contact your district’s homeless liaison through NDDPI. (nd.gov)

Title I rules also require districts to reserve funds to serve homeless students. If you need help fast, call the school office, ask for the McKinney‑Vento liaison, and request transportation support while housing is unstable. (nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call FirstLink 2‑1‑1 to reach family shelters and legal help, and ask the liaison to escalate to the district’s Title office if a bus or gas help is denied. (myfirstlink.org)

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Quick Table — Who to Contact for Common Needs

Sources: ND HHS NEMT; Handi‑Wheels; NDDOT transit map; Jefferson Lines; Amtrak; FirstLink. (hhs.nd.gov)

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Real‑World Examples

• Fargo mom with chemo: She books Metro Senior Ride to the oncology center, uses an MATBUS day pass for lab trips, and keeps NEMT mileage logs when a neighbor drives her on storm days. The plan cut her costs under $10/week. (valleyseniorservices.org)
• Bismarck retail worker on TANF: Her JOBS plan pays $150/month toward bus and gas while she builds hours, and covered her license reinstatement fee so she could take late shifts. She keeps receipts to avoid delays. (nd.gov)
• Minot parent of autistic child: They applied early for ADA paratransit after the city’s 2025 shift to “urban,” then used Souris Basin door‑to‑door for therapy drives three times a week. (minotdailynews.com)

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County‑Specific Variations That Matter

Ward County’s providers advertise free veteran rides to VA‑authorized medical appointments and list multiple local options—if you are a veteran mom or caregiver, ask dispatch to waive fares. In Golden Valley and McKenzie Counties, county veteran vans or HRTG vans may take you to VA or community care at no cost. (veterans.nd.gov)

Cass County has a broad mix: MATBUS, Handi‑Wheels, Metro Senior Ride, and limited VA VTS rides inside the metro. Ask for earliest booking windows to avoid being wait‑listed. (veterans.nd.gov)

Minot’s 2025 transition to “urban” status split paratransit and demand‑response—apply for ADA certification so you’re not cut off from door‑to‑door service inside the city. City funding has extended demand‑response through 2025, but certification protects your rides long‑term. (minotdailynews.com)

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Frequently Asked Questions

• How fast can I get a Medicaid NEMT ride in an emergency? If your provider says the appointment is urgent but non‑emergency, HHS can authorize rides quickly. Same‑day is possible for urgent medical need; have your details ready and ask about available modes. (hhs.nd.gov)
• What’s the current NEMT mileage rate? North Dakota adjusted private vehicle mileage limits effective July 1, 2025; ask the call center for today’s cents‑per‑mile and keep logs. Rates change with legislative limits. (hhs.nd.gov)
• Is there help paying for car repairs? TANF JOBS may pay essential repairs up to a cap if needed to keep your job; Community Action may help case‑by‑case. Ask for written approval before work starts. (nd.gov)
• I’m not on Medicaid—can anyone drive me to the doctor? Yes. Rural systems offer medical days to hub cities; seniors 60+ can use Valley Senior Services; some nonprofits provide rides or gas cards. (valleyseniorservices.org)
• How do I apply for paratransit? Get the ADA application from your local system; a provider must verify disability. In Bis‑Man, processing can take up to 21 days; visiting ADA riders can ride for up to 21 days with self‑certification. (bismantransit.com)
• Are there free rides for veterans? Yes. DAV vans run to Fargo VA; the VA provides limited local VTS rides inside the metro; some county and rural systems waive fares for medical trips by veterans. (va.gov)
• Do bus fares change often? They can. Grand Forks increased fares 33% in April 2025; Fargo discussed changes in 2025. Check your city’s transit page before buying passes. (grandforksherald.com)
• Can SNAP pay for gas to class or training? If you’re in SNAP E&T, the state can reimburse up to set monthly limits; submit attendance and keep receipts. (nd.gov)
• What if I’m homeless and my kids need a ride to their school? Ask your district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison for transportation to the school of origin; this is protected by federal law. DPI lists contacts and guidance. (nd.gov)
• How do I find all providers in my county? Use the NDDOT Transit Providers interactive map and click on your county to see agencies and numbers. (dot.nd.gov)

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Printable Tables — Transit and Ride Options You Can Screenshot

Table — Urban Systems and Contact Highlights

Confirm passes and eligibility on each site before riding. (matbus.com)

Table — Rural Providers (Examples)

Ask dispatch for child seat policy and driver assistance. (sourisbasintransit.com)

Table — Medical Ride Pathways

Confirm provider enrollment for paid family drivers. (hhs.nd.gov)

Table — Money Help for Transportation

Amounts vary by funding and county; call to confirm. (nd.gov)

Table — Intercity and Airport Connections

Plan ahead for weather and schedule changes. (jeffersonlines.com)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta guía rápida ofrece opciones reales de transporte en Dakota del Norte. Para ayuda inmediata, llame al 2‑1‑1 (FirstLink) para información local y referencias a pases de autobús, vales de gasolina y sistemas rurales. Si tiene Medicaid, pida un viaje médico con NEMT al 1‑866‑614‑6005 (TTY 711) o reembolso por millaje; para viajes fuera del estado, solicite aprobación con dos semanas de anticipación. En ciudades, use MATBUS (Fargo), Cities Area Transit (Grand Forks), Capital Area Transit (Bismarck‑Mandan) o Minot City Transit; para paratransit (puerta a puerta), solicite elegibilidad. Si participa en TANF (JOBS) o SNAP E&T, pida apoyo mensual para transporte. Las veteranas pueden usar DAV/VTS para citas médicas en VA. Nota: esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; verifique detalles por teléfono o en los sitios oficiales. (myfirstlink.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services — Medicaid NEMT handbook and updates. (hhs.nd.gov)
• North Dakota Department of Transportation — Statewide Transit, maps, and planning updates. (dot.nd.gov)
• MATBUS, Cities Area Transit, Capital Area Transit, Minot City Transit/Souris Basin Transportation — fare pages and rider info. (matbus.com)
• Community Action Partnership of North Dakota — regional offices and services. (capnd.org)
• Valley Senior Services — Metro Senior Ride and rural public routes. (valleyseniorservices.org)
• Veterans Affairs/DAV — Fargo VA transportation and DAV van network. (va.gov)
• North Dakota Insurance Department — auto coverage requirements and assigned‑risk plan. (insurance.nd.gov)
• Jefferson Lines and Amtrak — intercity connections and ND stops. (jeffersonlines.com)

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.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. It is not legal advice or a guarantee of benefits. Program amounts, fares, and eligibility change based on funding and policy. Always call the agency to confirm current availability before applying or traveling. If you are in danger or need emergency transport, call 9‑1‑1.

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🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota

• 📋 Assistance Programs
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• 🎓 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
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• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
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• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery