Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Texas

Last updated: September 2025

This hub pulls together time‑sensitive ride options, low‑income fare programs, medical trip resources, car repair help, and real‑world steps that work in Texas. Every section begins with the most important action so you can move today.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call your Texas Medicaid ride line now to book a free non‑emergency medical ride or gas reimbursement for a covered visit; start with HHSC Nonemergency Medical Transportation (NEMT), check your plan’s number on HHSC Health Plan Transportation Contacts, or if you are not in a plan call 1‑877‑633‑8747 via HHSC NEMT. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Get a same‑day low‑income or reduced fare for your city transit: in Dallas use DART Discount GoPass Tap, in Austin apply for CapMetro Equifare, or in Houston review METRO discounted fares and METROLift access. (dart.org)
• If you’re stuck with shutoff risk or need gas/bus money tied to work, call your local Workforce Solutions office (ask about Choices or SNAP E&T transportation), and also apply for utility crisis help through TDHCA’s CEAP. For billing disputes related to electric or water utilities, contact PUC Consumer Protection at 1‑888‑782‑8477. (apps.twc.texas.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Key Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• Medicaid rides (no health plan): Call 1‑877‑633‑8747 at HHSC NEMT. Use HHSC health‑plan ride contacts to find your plan’s direct number, and see caregiver gas reimbursement rules at Texas Health Steps NEMT tutorial. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Transit agency locator: Use TxDOT’s “Texas transit agencies – find yours” to see the rural or urban provider for your county, check rural programs at TxDOT Rural Public Transportation, and browse statewide links via APTA Texas Transit Links. (txdot.gov)
• Utility shutoff help and complaints: Call PUC Consumer Protection at 1‑888‑782‑8477, review disconnection protections in 16 TAC §25.29, and, if power is off or threatened, apply for crisis aid through TDHCA CEAP. (puc.texas.gov)
• Language and accessibility: Use Relay Texas 7‑1‑1 if you are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing, request TTY at major transit providers (for example, METROLift TTY 713‑652‑8969), and ask for large‑print forms through your agency’s customer service line on TxDOT transit directory pages. (puc.texas.gov)
• Escalate benefits problems: If you can’t resolve ride or benefit issues with your plan or office, contact the HHS Office of the Ombudsman at 1‑877‑787‑8999, or for Medicaid managed care ride barriers call HHSC Managed Care Ombudsman at 1‑866‑566‑8989; for veterans transit questions connect with TWC Veterans specialists. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Who This Is For and How to Use It

You’ll find step‑by‑step ways to get medical rides, cheaper transit, emergency gas or bus money for work, and even car repair programs that actually exist in Texas. Keep your phone handy to call numbers listed alongside HHSC’s medical ride rules, use TxDOT’s statewide transit locator to find your agency by county, and lean on Workforce Solutions if your need is tied to getting or keeping a job. (hhs.texas.gov)

Reality Check: Funding cycles, staffing, and weather can slow down approvals or same‑day rides; document everything and save screenshots of texts or confirmations from your transit provider and health plan ride vendor, and escalate to the HHS Ombudsman when needed. (txdot.gov)

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How to Get a Ride to Medical Care in Texas Today

The fastest path if you have Medicaid, CHIP, the Children with Special Health Care Needs program, or the Transportation for Indigent Cancer Patients program is to use the state’s medical ride benefit. Start at HHSC Nonemergency Medical Transportation, find your plan at HHSC Transportation Contacts, and learn timing and gas reimbursement basics from Texas Health Steps’ NEMT tutorial. Expect to book at least two business days ahead for local trips, five for long‑distance. (hhs.texas.gov)

• What to have ready: Medicaid/CHIP ID, appointment time, pickup and drop‑off addresses, and note any mobility needs; see the full list on HHSC NEMT, and check your health plan’s app or vendor like ModivCare for tracking a ride. If you have a car but no fuel, ask to register as an Individual Transportation Participant (gas money). (hhs.texas.gov)
• Same‑day exceptions: You can sometimes get same‑day rides for hospital discharge or urgent medication pick‑ups per Texas Health Steps guidance; call your plan line from HHSC Contacts and request an “urgent” trip. If you’re not in a managed plan, use 1‑877‑633‑8747 on HHSC NEMT. (txhealthsteps.com)
• Return rides and wait times: Some vendors offer a “Where’s My Ride” line (see HHSC Contacts) and most require a return time booked in advance. Plan buffer time and keep your phone charged. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your health plan’s Member Services to ask for a supervisor, then file a complaint with the HHS Ombudsman. For medically necessary trips when NEMT is delayed, ask your clinic if they can conference in the plan, and document the call; if denial persists, submit a complaint to HHS Ombudsman and request an expedited review. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Cheaper Daily Transit: Low‑Income and Reduced Fares in Texas Cities

Public transit agencies in Texas offer strong discounts if you qualify by age, disability, student status, or income. Apply online or in person using proof like a SNAP or Medicaid card, or income documents.

• Dallas–Fort Worth: DART offers half‑price fares via the Discount GoPass Tap program, with cards typically arriving in up to 15 business days; general reduced fares cover seniors, students, disabilities via DART Reduced Fare. Trinity Metro in Fort Worth lists reduced 7‑day and monthly prices and ACCESS paratransit details on paratransit eligibility. (dart.org)
• Houston: METRO’s base rides are 1.25withhalffaresforeligibleridersper[METROfares](https://www.ridemetro.org/fares/all−about−fares)anddoor‑to‑door[METROLiftparatransit](https://www.ridemetro.org/riding−metro/transit−services/metrolift−paratransit/).Newairportservice500IAHDowntownDirectrunsevery30minutesfor1.25 with half fares for eligible riders per _[METRO fares](https://www.ridemetro.org/fares/all-about-fares)_ and door‑to‑door _[METROLift paratransit](https://www.ridemetro.org/riding-metro/transit-services/metrolift-paratransit/)_. New airport service 500 IAH Downtown Direct runs every 30 minutes for 1.25withhalffaresforeligibleridersper[​METROfares](https://www.ridemetro.org/fares/all−about−fares)a​nddoor‑to‑door[​METROLiftparatransit](https://www.ridemetro.org/riding−metro/transit−services/metrolift−paratransit/).​Newairportservice500IAHDowntownDirectrunsevery30minutesfor4.50, helpful for clinic trips near downtown, per the Houston Chronicle report. (ridemetro.org)
• Austin: CapMetro’s income‑based Equifare caps daily and monthly costs, and neighborhood Pickup on‑demand shuttles run for $1.25 in 12 service zones; Access paratransit details and phone lines are at CapMetro Access Rider’s Guide. (capmetro.org)
• San Antonio: VIA provides paratransit through VIAtrans and publishes direct contact numbers on VIA contact; nonprofits can buy discounted passes for clients through VIA Fare Assistance Program. (viainfo.net)
• El Paso: Sun Metro’s The LIFT paratransit allows booking up to seven days out with phone scheduling at 915‑212‑LIFT and publishes reduced fare rules at Sun Metro Reduced Fare. (sunmetro.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for fare‑assistance or “transit ambassador/travel training” via your agency’s accessibility office (see METROLift and CapMetro Access), request an ADA reasonable modification, and contact Relay Texas if you need TTY/relay to call customer service. (ridemetro.org)

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Rural Transit, Microtransit, and Intercity Links

If you live outside a big city, you still likely have a public provider that offers dial‑a‑ride, deviated fixed routes, or on‑demand shuttles.

• Use TxDOT’s statewide transit directory to identify your rural transit district, and review grants and service notes at TxDOT’s Rural Public Transportation; APTA’s Texas Transit Links is also a good index. (txdot.gov)
• The Capital Area Rural Transportation System covers nine surrounding counties; see phone scheduling and CARTS NOW app on CARTS and fare options on CARTS Fares & Passes. The Brazos Transit District covers 20 counties with demand‑response and ADA paratransit; booking and rates are posted at BTD How to Ride and BTD Rates. (ridecarts.com)
• Many areas offer microtransit: CARTS NOW in Bastrop runs weekdays 7 a.m.–7 p.m. with app/phone booking; see the city update and fares in local coverage, and check CARTS Schedules for regional connectors. (statesman.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your transit district manager listed on TxDOT’s directory and ask about demand‑response eligibility windows, ADA paratransit eligibility, and volunteer driver programs funded under FTA 5310; if denied, request the written appeal process and ask your provider for travel training. (txdot.gov)

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Work, Job Training, and Gas/Passes: What Workforce Solutions Can Pay For

If your transportation need is tied to job search, training, or keeping a new job, ask for “support services” through Texas Workforce Solutions.

• The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program (TANF) uses TWC’s Choices program, which can cover transportation, work clothes, and more; TWC also publishes a Choices Services page describing support services when you’re participating. Use the office locator at Directory of Workforce Solutions & Services to find your local office. (twc.texas.gov)
• SNAP recipients engaged in employment activities may receive help under SNAP Employment & Training for job search, work experience, and supportive services like transportation and child care; ask your case manager to approve bus passes or mileage reimbursement related to your assigned activities. (twc.texas.gov)
• Veterans can often get tailored transport solutions through Workforce Solutions boards’ veteran staff; find your contact on TWC Veterans Resource & Referral Specialists. Some transit systems also run veteran pass programs funded by the Texas Veterans Commission (for example, Sun Metro’s “Vets Ride Free” grant year runs July 2025–August 2026). (twc.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for your board’s written Support Services policy, escalate through the office manager, and, if you still can’t get an answer, send a short written complaint to TWC using the board directory on About the Boards and copy your Workforce Solutions center email. (twc.texas.gov)

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Car Repair and Low‑Cost Auto Loans: What’s Real in Texas Right Now

A reliable car can make or break a work schedule in many Texas regions. Here are vetted, Texas‑based options to try first, plus an important warning.

• Repairs and donated cars for single mothers around the Houston–Conroe area are offered by God’s Garage (serving single moms, widows, and wives of deployed service members). Dallas–Fort Worth single parents can apply for free repairs via Autocare Haven; both programs publish eligibility criteria and application forms. Review your county’s rural transit through TxDOT’s transit directory while you wait. (godsgarage.org)
• Character‑based auto loans have been offered by the Dallas‑based nonprofit On The Road Lending across several states; as of September 2025, the site notes they are “not accepting loan applications at this time,” so check back or ask to join an interest list; consider credit‑union preapprovals locally and compare options carefully. Also review Open Lending’s 2025 EVAA partners to find credit unions active with near‑prime borrowers. (ontheroadlending.org)
• If you’re buying a used vehicle, keep monthly total car costs under a strict budget and cross‑check transit alternatives; compare low‑income fare programs like CapMetro Equifare, DART discount, and ADA paratransit (for example METROLift) to avoid predatory loans. (capmetro.org)

Reality Check: Used‑car prices and interest rates remain high. If an “easy approval” dealer pushes payments that exceed what you spend on rent or child care, pause. Ask a Workforce Solutions counselor about work routes using public transit in your county and request transportation support while you stabilize income. (txdot.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Get on nonprofit waitlists (try church‑based repair ministries and God’s Garage), ask your Workforce Solutions case manager for short‑term transit passes, and seek a second opinion on repairs from a shop your transit or community action agency recommends. (godsgarage.org)

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Child Car Seats and Safe Travel

Texas has a statewide child passenger safety program that can provide a free seat to eligible families and teach proper installation.

• Apply through DSHS Safe Riders Child Safety Seat Distribution, call 1‑800‑252‑8255 on Safe Riders Program, and review Texas child passenger safety law at DSHS Car Seat Law summary. (dshs.texas.gov)
• Find an inspection event via Safe Riders inspection stations list, and ask your local TxDOT Traffic Safety office for printed, large‑print education materials if needed. Many inspections are coordinated with Safe Kids coalitions noted on the DSHS calendar. (dshs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Email saferiders@dshs.texas.gov with your city, county, and ZIP, or leave a message at 1‑800‑252‑8255; also ask your pediatric clinic or WIC office to help connect you with a local distribution partner listed on Safe Riders partners. (dshs.texas.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Texas Today

If a utility disconnection notice is threatening your family’s transportation to work, childcare, or medical visits, take these steps before the cutoff date.

• Call your electric provider and request a deferred payment plan or medical hold if someone is ill; protections appear in state rules like 16 TAC §25.29 and critical care forms posted by state consumer offices like OPUC Bill Assistance; for disputes or if the REP refuses, file a complaint with PUC Consumer Protection at 1‑888‑782‑8477. (law.cornell.edu)
• Apply the same day for crisis help under TDHCA’s Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) via your local community action agency; “household crisis” components can act quickly, and some counties announce limited‑quantity intakes (watch local postings like Webb County CEAP notices). (tdhca.texas.gov)
• If you still can’t resolve it, call PUC Consumer Protection to lodge a complaint; active PUC complaints can pause disconnections while under review, and the PUC publishes contacts and storm resources on PUC Storm Resources. (puc.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Municipal utilities and co‑ops aren’t under the same PUC rules; ask your city utility or co‑op member services about payment plans and medical holds, and re‑apply to CEAP; also call 2‑1‑1 to locate church or nonprofit funds and confirm any PUC consumer rights that still apply. (codes.findlaw.com)

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Legal Documents, Driver’s License Problems, and Occupational Licenses

If your license is suspended for certain reasons, Texas DPS allows a restricted “essential need” license so you can drive for work, school, or household duties.

• Review eligibility and the court petition process at DPS Occupational Driver License; you’ll need a court order, SR‑22 insurance, and fees paid as listed on the state page. If your suspension involved fines or child support, ask the court or Attorney General’s office about payment plans before filing. (dps.texas.gov)
• When talking to state agencies or transit customer service and you need TTY/relay, use Relay Texas 7‑1‑1 or the relay provider’s site RelayTexas.com for options other than TTY, and request large‑print forms if needed from your provider or court. (puc.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the court clerk about legal clinics, request payment plans, and contact your county law library (DPS links a Travis County example on the ODL page). If your benefits or rides were wrongly cut off, also contact the HHS Ombudsman. (dps.texas.gov)

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Resources by Region (quick directory)

Use this table to jump straight to a major agency near you and its discount/ADA pages. Always confirm current fares and hours.

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County‑Level Variations (examples to guide you)

• Hill Country and Central counties: CARTS NOW on‑demand zones have expanded in Bastrop; hours and fares are different from fixed‑route service, so verify limits and monthly caps on CARTS alerts and schedules and city updates like Bastrop Council briefings. (ridecarts.com)
• El Paso County: After a 2025 facility fire, Sun Metro adjusted service hours on certain routes while keeping LIFT and Amistad paratransit running; check alerts on Sun Metro announcements and confirm LIFT scheduling at 915‑212‑LIFT on The LIFT. (sunmetro.net)
• Brazos Valley counties: Demand‑and‑response requires 24‑hour notice and allows some same‑day trips if space is available; see details on BTD How to Ride and rates on BTD Rates. (btd.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the right phone number: Calling the general Medicaid line instead of your plan’s ride vendor delays trips. Always start with HHSC Health Plan Transportation Contacts, and save it in your phone. Also keep HHS Ombudsman if you need escalation. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Waiting until the due date: For shutoff notices, many protections require a doctor’s note or payment plan before the cutoff time; read TAC §25.29 and call PUC Consumer Protection early. Apply to CEAP the same day. (law.cornell.edu)
• Assuming fairs are the same across counties: Rural and urban agencies set different prices and eligibility; confirm with your county provider using TxDOT’s transit directory and the agency fare pages. (txdot.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist (print/screenshot‑friendly)

• Photo ID (license or state ID); if suspended, see DPS ODL page for steps to seek an essential‑need license during suspension. (dps.texas.gov)
• Medicaid/CHIP card or case number for medical rides; confirm booking windows on HHSC NEMT. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Proof of program eligibility (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid award, paystubs) for low‑income transit discounts like CapMetro Equifare or DART Discount Tap. (capmetro.org)
• Doctor/clinic appointment details for NEMT; see what to provide at HHSC NEMT “how to get a ride”. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Shutoff notice + doctor’s letter if needed for utility moratorium or deferred plan; read rules at 16 TAC §25.29. (law.cornell.edu)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Houston/Conroe: God’s Garage gifts vehicles and repairs for single mothers; ask about seminars that include budgeting and job search; pair this with METRO/METROLift options and use PUC Consumer Protection for any deposit waiver disputes related to family violence cases. (godsgarage.org)
• Dallas–Fort Worth: Autocare Haven offers free repairs for single parents; confirm DART’s low‑income Discount Tap timeline (card can take up to 15 business days), and consider Trinity Metro’s simplified fare structure documented in Fort Worth Report. (autocarehaven.org)
• Statewide and rural: Use TxDOT’s transit directory to find senior/ADA ride programs and FTA 5310 providers in your county; your local community action agency can often issue bus passes using CEAP or CSBG funds depending on availability. (txdot.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to find a church or United Way partner that buys passes in bulk; ask about “transportation vouchers” or “gas cards” by ZIP; then verify your transit route on TxDOT and your agency site. (txdot.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use transit privacy options where safe, confirm name updates on discount IDs (like DART Reduced Fare processing), request ombudsman help if a clinic ride is denied via HHS Ombudsman, and rely on Relay Texas if you need TTY/relay to coordinate with agencies. (dart.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Apply for ADA paratransit where appropriate (DART Paratransit Eligibility, CapMetro Access, METROLift), request travel training, and ask for reasonable modifications; use Relay Texas 7‑1‑1 to set up rides by phone if hearing impaired. (dart.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Confirm any local veteran pass programs (e.g., El Paso’s Vets Ride Free grant year), contact TWC Veterans staff for employment transport help, and check your county transit district on TxDOT’s directory for connections to VA clinics. (sunmetro.net)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Even without a driver’s license, you can get reduced transit with documents listed by your agency (see CapMetro Equifare requirements), secure medical rides for eligible Medicaid children through HHSC NEMT, and use Relay Texas for language access through relay when needed. (capmetro.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Check whether your rural transit provider partners with tribal programs through TxDOT rural transit and ask about FTA 5311(c) tribal transit connections; if you receive Medicaid, request rides through HHSC NEMT. (txdot.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use demand‑response systems like CARTS or Brazos Transit District to connect to city clinics; ask Workforce Solutions for fuel reimbursement tied to job training per SNAP E&T. (ridecarts.com)
• Single fathers: Most discounts and medical ride rules are household‑based; apply the same steps on HHSC NEMT, and ask your Workforce office via Directory of Services for supportive services if you’re job‑seeking. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Language access: Request interpreters when scheduling rides through your health plan on HHSC Contacts, use PUC Spanish contacts for utility disputes, and call Relay Texas 7‑1‑1 for TTY/relay during calls. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• NEMT ride denial: Ask for the reason code, correct any missing documentation (provider not registered, wrong address, or insufficient notice are common per Texas Health Steps NEMT guidance), then request a supervisor review via your plan’s number on HHSC Contacts. Escalate to HHS Ombudsman if unresolved. (txhealthsteps.com)
• Transit discount denial: Bring updated proof (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid acceptance letter) and ask for a manager; DART notes cards expire with your benefit period, so renew on time at DART Discount Tap. (dart.org)
• CEAP/crisis denial: Ask your community action agency what documentation was missing, re‑apply quickly, and ask for referrals to city or church funds; rules, funding amounts, and intake windows vary (see general CEAP info at TDHCA CEAP and local notices such as Webb County CEAP updates). (tdhca.texas.gov)

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Timelines and Wait Times You Can Expect

• Medical rides (NEMT): Book at least two business days ahead for local trips and five for long‑distance, with possible same‑day approval for urgent pharmacy or hospital discharge per Texas Health Steps NEMT. Health plans publish ride‑vendor hotlines on HHSC Contacts. (txhealthsteps.com)
• Transit discount cards: DART Discount GoPass Tap may take up to 15 business days to arrive by mail per DART Discount FAQ; carry fare until your card arrives. (dart.org)
• Paratransit eligibility: DART and Trinity Metro note decisions typically within 21 days after assessment on DART Paratransit Eligibility and Trinity Metro On‑Demand Paratransit pages. (dart.org)

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Frequently Asked Questions (Texas‑specific)

1. How do I get my clinic’s ride covered if my doctor moved offices: Ensure the clinic’s new location is registered with Texas Medicaid; NEMT only goes to registered locations per Texas Health Steps NEMT tips. Ask the clinic to update their address with TMHP and resubmit your ride request. (txhealthsteps.com)
2. Can Medicaid pay my friend to drive me: Yes—through the Individual Transportation Participant (ITP) option, if your driver meets license, registration, and insurance requirements as explained on HHSC NEMT. (hhs.texas.gov)
3. Are there low‑income fares in Austin right now: Yes—CapMetro Equifare offers reduced daily and monthly caps; you’ll use the Umo app or reloadable card. (capmetro.org)
4. What if I can’t use the bus because of a disability: Apply for ADA paratransit with your agency: METROLift (Houston), CapMetro Access (Austin), DART Paratransit (Dallas), or Trinity Metro Paratransit (Fort Worth). (ridemetro.org)
5. Who can help if my utility company won’t work with me: Call PUC Consumer Protection at 1‑888‑782‑8477 and apply to CEAP for bill help; read medical/critical care rules via OPUC Bill Assistance for doctor’s letter requirements. (puc.texas.gov)
6. Is there help for free car seats: Yes—DSHS Safe Riders can provide a seat and training if you qualify; call 1‑800‑252‑8255. (dshs.texas.gov) do I find rural rides near me**: Use TxDOT’s transit directory and then call the listed dispatch to set demand‑response trips; CARTS and Brazos Transit are examples.
7. What if I need an ID to ride and mine is suspended: If your license is suspended for certain reasons, petition for an essential‑need license using DPS Occupational Driver License; this does not cover commercial driving.
8. Can veterans get transit help: Check local programs like Sun Metro Vets Ride Free (El Paso), and talk to TWC Veterans staff; some boards can assist with work‑transport costs.
9. I use TTY—how do I call agencies for rides: Dial Relay Texas 7‑1‑1 and ask the relay agent to call the provider’s number; calls are confidential by law.

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“Reality Check” Box — Delays, Denials, Funding Gaps

• Transit and paratransit: Eligibility reviews can take up to 21 days; plan with temporary routes using standard buses and ask for travel training via DART Paratransit, CapMetro Access, or METROLift teams.
• Utility crisis: CEAP funds and city programs open and close quickly; watch agency pages like TDHCA CEAP and local announcements such as Webb County CEAP. Use PUC Consumer Protection for disputes.
• Nonprofit car programs: Waitlists move slowly; keep a backup plan using routes on TxDOT’s transit directory and transit discounts like Equifare.

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Tables You Can Use

Major Medicaid Plan Transportation Contacts (quick view)

Transit Discounts Snapshot

Rural Providers Examples

Utility Shutoff Protections and Contacts

Car Seat Help

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Tips That Save Time (steps you can copy)

• Bring a simple folder with: ID, benefit letter (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid), pay stubs, proof of address, appointment card; agencies listed on HHSC NEMT, your transit provider and Workforce Solutions will ask for these.
• Front‑load schedules: Book clinic rides as soon as the appointment is set (NEMT asks for 2–5 business days’ notice per Texas Health Steps), and apply for low‑income fares before your first day of work using DART Discount Tap or Equifare.
• Ask for travel training: Agencies like CapMetro Access and METROLift offer training to ride buses or rail with a stroller and groceries—a good bridge while waiting for paratransit approval.

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta guía ofrece pasos concretos para conseguir viajes a citas médicas, descuentos de transporte público, ayuda de emergencia para gasolina/pases y programas reales de reparación de autos en Texas. Para viajes médicos, llame a su plan de Medicaid usando los contactos de transporte de HHSC o al 1‑877‑633‑8747 como se indica en NEMT de HHSC. Para descuentos de tarifas, use Equifare de CapMetro, DART Discount Tap o METRO de Houston. Para evitar cortes de electricidad, comuníquese con Protección al Consumidor de la PUC al 1‑888‑782‑8477 y aplique el mismo día al Programa CEAP de TDHCA. Las familias pueden recibir asientos de seguridad para niños con Safe Riders de DSHS. Nota: esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Texas Health and Human Services — Nonemergency Medical Transportation
• Texas Workforce Commission — Choices and SNAP E&T and Directory of Workforce Solutions & Services
• Texas Department of Transportation — Texas transit agencies
• Public Utility Commission of Texas — Consumer Protection and Relay Texas
• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs — CEAP
• Texas DSHS — Safe Riders Child Passenger Safety

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 informational, not legal advice or an agency decision. Program rules change, funding opens and closes, and eligibility is case‑specific. Always verify with the official program: use HHSC NEMT for medical rides, confirm fares on your city’s transit page like CapMetro Equifare, and check shutoff protections and complaints with PUC Consumer Protection or your municipal/co‑op utility. Call to confirm current availability before applying; typical non‑crisis reviews can take 10–15 business days, and urgent requests depend on documentation and local capacity.

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What we covered in this hub

• NEMT for Medicaid/CHIP and how to book rides
• Low‑income and reduced transit fares in major Texas cities
• Rural transit and microtransit tools
• Work‑related transportation support through Workforce Solutions
• Utility shutoff prevention and CEAP crisis steps
• Car repair/donation programs that operate in Texas
• Child passenger safety seats and inspection resources
• Legal driver options through DPS Occupational Licenses
• Accessibility, veterans, and multilingual support options

Keep this open while you call the numbers linked; document who you talk to and when. It speeds up approvals and helps if you need to escalate.

🏛️More Texas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Texas

• 📋 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