Wheelchair accessible charter bus and shuttle transport
Accessible transport is a right on a charter coach, not a favor. The rules are clear. The planning is about giving enough notice and enough detail.
What the charter operator must provide
An over-the-road bus is a coach with a raised passenger deck over a baggage compartment: the standard motorcoach. A charter operator running these must provide an accessible bus on request. An accessible over-the-road bus has a lift and two wheelchair securement locations.
The operator cannot require a companion to assist a passenger with a disability.
This applies whether the booking is a school trip, a conference shuttle or a church outing. Ask for the accessible coach on the request, and check it is written on the quote.
What the rules require
- Operators may require up to 48 hours' advance notice.
- Operators cannot require companions to assist passengers with disabilities.
Notice: 48 hours, and why earlier is better
Operators may require up to 48 hours' advance notice. With less, they must still make a reasonable effort. Reasonable effort is not a guarantee. For a conference, school trip or wedding, put the accessibility need on the first request, with the date.
Smaller vehicles and what to tell us
Not every trip needs a coach. Minibus floor plans with a wheelchair lift exist, and some midsize coach models are lift-ready. Tell us how many wheelchair users, whether chairs are manual or powered, and whether anyone transfers to a seat. That decides the vehicle. Also say whether anyone needs the lift at every stop or only at the start and end; it changes the schedule.
Plan the stops too. A lift needs level curb space. At a National Mall signed loading zone or a hotel driveway, confirm there is room to deploy it.
Questions
How much notice do we need to give?
Operators may require up to 48 hours. Earlier is safer.
How many wheelchairs can a motorcoach carry?
An accessible over-the-road bus has two wheelchair securement locations.
Can the group use a minibus instead?
Often, if a lift floor plan suits. Tell us the chairs and passengers, and the quote names the vehicle.
Does a companion have to travel with the passenger?
No. The operator cannot require companions to assist.
Cities
Vehicles
- Motorcoach (49-81 passengers) — 49-81 seats
- Midsize coach (35-passenger) — 29-35 seats
- Minibus (16-19 passengers) — 16-19 seats
- Sprinter van (17-19 passengers) — 17-19 seats
- Party bus / limo van — Varies by build (Sprinter limos up to 14)
- Sedan / SUV car service — SUV up to 6 passengers with luggage
Request an accessible vehicle
Date, headcount, number of wheelchair users and the route. One quote for vehicle and driver. Nothing is charged until you accept.
Request a quote or call 15722344442