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Home / Getting to appointments on METROLift

Houston · A little preparation

Getting to appointments on METROLift

Ask about METROLift before you need a regular ride to care.

In short

If a disability keeps you from riding METRO buses in Houston, METROLift is a shared-ride paratransit service for prequalified riders across most of Harris County and parts of Fort Bend County. You apply first, including an in-person interview. A one-way trip in the base service area costs $1.25. METRO, not Medicare, decides eligibility, so ask METRO about applying and your appointment office about timing.

A useful next step

  1. Apply to METROLift before you need regular rides. The process includes an application and an in-person interview.
  2. Once approved, schedule by phone with a live agent at 713-225-6716 (weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), online, or in the METRO On Demand app.
  3. Tell the appointment office you ride paratransit and ask about check-in times. Ask your Medicare plan separately whether it offers any ride benefit.

A question to keep

Ask what type of visit is scheduled and whether other services could lead to charges.

Questions people in Houston ask

Who can ride METROLift in Houston?
METROLift serves prequalified customers with a disability that keeps them from using METRO’s regular service, for example someone who cannot walk or roll to a bus stop without help. METRO decides eligibility after an application and an in-person interview.
Does Medicare pay for METROLift rides to my doctor?
No. METROLift is a METRO public transit service with its own fares, such as $1.25 for a one-way trip in the base service area. Original Medicare generally covers ambulance transportation only when medically necessary. Some Medicare Advantage plans include ride benefits with limits, so ask your plan.
How do I schedule a METROLift trip once I am approved?
Book online, in the METRO On Demand app, through the automated phone line at 713-739-4690, or with a live agent at 713-225-6716 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. METRO says every scheduling method offers English and Spanish.

Official starting point

Read the official resource ↗

Preparation guidance checked October 10, 2026. Ask the responsible service to confirm what applies to you.

Sources checked October 10, 2026.