HandyDART Accessible Transit Service

HandyDART is TransLink‘s door-to-door, shared-ride service for individuals in Metro Vancouver who are unable to navigate conventional public transit without assistance. Whether traveling for medical appointments, shopping, or visiting friends, a professional driver in a specially equipped accessible vehicle will pick you up at your door, assist you with boarding, and ensure you arrive safely at the door of your destination. This service is designed to remove barriers to travel, helping seniors and people with disabilities live active, independent lives.

  • Services Include:
    • Providing secure door-to-door transportation, with drivers assisting passengers in transitioning to and from wheelchairs/walkers and securing mobility devices inside the vehicle.
    • Comprehensive coverage across Metro Vancouver (including Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, Surrey, etc.), connecting users to the SkyTrain, SeaBus, and conventional buses.
    • Flexible booking options, accommodating both one-time reservation trips and regular, recurring subscription trips.
  • Target Audience: Residents of Metro Vancouver of any age with a permanent or temporary physical, sensory, or cognitive disability (such as dementia, severe arthritis, surgical recovery, etc.) that prevents them from using fixed-route public transit independently.
  • Cost: Registration is entirely free. Single-trip fares are equivalent to 1-Zone adult fares on conventional transit. Compass Cards or exact change cash are accepted:
    • Adult Fare (Ages 19-64): $3.05 Cash, or $2.45 Stored Value on Compass Card (2026 Rates).
    • Concession Fare (Seniors 65+ & Youth 13-18): $2.00.
    • Children (Ages 12 & Under): Free.
  • How to Apply:
    • Obtain the Form: Download the combined HandyDART and HandyCard Application Form from the TransLink website, or call Access Transit Customer Care at 604-953-3680 to have a physical copy mailed to you.
    • Medical Verification: Complete the applicant section and have a certified medical practitioner (e.g., family physician, physiotherapist, occupational therapist) fill out the professional assessment section.
    • Submit Your Application: Mail the completed forms to: Access Transit Customer Care, 400–287 Nelson’s Court, New Westminster, BC V3L 0E7. Processing typically takes up to 10 business days.
  • Official Website: https://www.translink.ca/HandyDART

FAQ

Can I book a same-day trip on HandyDART? How far in advance should I book?

It is highly recommended to book your trips in advance. You can book a trip 1 to 7 days before your travel date by calling the booking line at 604-575-6600. While you can call on the same day to check for openings, trips are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and same-day availability is extremely limited.

I registered for HandyDART. If I need a companion to travel with me, do they have to pay?

This depends on their role. If you have an approved Attendant who must travel with you to provide essential physical or cognitive support, they can travel with you for free (requires a valid HandyCard). However, if they are traveling with you as a social companion rather than a care attendant, they must pay the standard transit fare and must be booked in advance to ensure space is available.

What is the difference between HandyDART and HandyCard? Which one should I apply for?

They serve different travel needs:
HandyDART: Is a door-to-door, custom shared-ride transit service for those unable to use regular bus/train networks.
HandyCard: Is an ID card that allows individuals with disabilities to travel on conventional transit (buses, SkyTrain, SeaBus) at reduced concession rates and allows an attendant to travel with them for free.
You can apply for both services at the same time using the same application form.

I use a wheelchair. Are HandyDART vehicles accessible for my mobility device?

Yes, all HandyDART vehicles are fully accessible and equipped with ramps or lifts. To ensure safe transport, however, your mobility aid must fit within standard dimensions and the total combined weight (passenger, device, and driver assistance) cannot exceed 360 kg (800 lbs). Devices must also be clean and have secure tie-down points.