How do people Getaround if they can't drive?

[VanAriana]

People who cannot drive have numerous reliable transportation alternatives, including public transit, ride-sharing, specialized services, walking, and cycling. A 2023 American Community Survey report indicates that over 25 million U.S. adults do not drive, relying on these established networks. The optimal choice depends on budget, location, trip purpose, and mobility needs.

Public transportation forms the backbone for many non-drivers. Options include fixed-route buses, subways, light rail, and commuter trains, which are often the most cost-effective solution. Many systems offer discounted fares for seniors, students, or persons with disabilities, and real-time tracking apps have significantly improved usability. According to the American Public Transportation Association, agencies in major metropolitan areas provide paratransit services for eligible riders who cannot use fixed-route buses or trains, ensuring ADA compliance.

Ride-sharing and taxi services provide direct, on-demand travel. Apps like Uber and Lyft offer door-to-door convenience, with options for wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) in many cities. For regular medical appointments, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, often covered by Medicaid or insurance, are a critical resource. Traditional taxis remain a viable, if sometimes more expensive, option, with many companies maintaining accessible fleets.

Community and specialized services fill crucial gaps. Volunteer driver programs, frequently organized by religious groups or nonprofits like ITN America, offer rides for seniors and visually impaired individuals, often for a small donation. Many senior centers and community organizations also run shuttle buses to shopping centers and medical facilities.

For shorter distances, active transportation is a healthy and free alternative. Walking or using a mobility scooter for errands within a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is feasible. Bicycles and e-bikes extend this range, with bike-share programs available in hundreds of cities. Micromobility options like electric scooters can be useful for the "last mile" connecting to transit hubs.

A practical comparison of primary options clarifies key trade-offs:

Transportation Mode	Typical Cost	Key Advantage	Best For
Public Transit (Bus/Train)	$2-$5 per trip	Most affordable & eco-friendly	Daily commuting, regular routes
Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft)	$10-$30+ per trip	Door-to-door, on-demand	Errands, appointments, evenings
Paratransit / NEMT	Often subsidized	Guaranteed accessibility	Medical trips, ADA-eligible riders
Volunteer Driver Programs	Donation-based	Social, supportive	Seniors, non-urgent community trips
Walking / Biking	Free / Low upfront	Promotes health & independence	Short trips, local neighborhoods

Planning is essential. Start by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging or public transit authority for a complete guide to local services, eligibility for reduced fares, and paratransit applications. Consolidating trips and using a mix of these methods creates a robust, personalized transportation plan that ensures independence without a personal vehicle.

[DiReid]

At 72, I gave up my keys last year. My week now runs on a mix: the city bus gets me to my volunteer job, my grandson set up Uber on my phone for big grocery hauls, and the senior center van takes a group of us to the mall every Tuesday. On sunny days, I just walk to the park with my rollator. It took some getting used to, but I’m getting out more now than when I worried about driving.

[OMelanie]

I haven’t owned a car for five years by design, not circumstance. My strategy is hybrid. For my daily 9-to-5, I’m on the train—it’s predictable and I can work during the commute. If I’m running late or going out at night, I’ll tap a ride-share app. Everything within a two-mile radius, like the gym or cafe, I handle with my e-bike. The trick isn’t finding one perfect solution; it’s about building a personal toolkit. I use transit apps to monitor bus times and budget about $150 a month for the occasional Lyft, which is still far less than car payments and insurance.

[LaParker]

As a caregiver for my father, who has Parkinson’s, reliable transportation that accommodates his mobility scooter is non-negotiable. We heavily rely on two key services. First, the county’s paratransit system—we booked his weekly physical therapy appointments a month in advance. Second, we use Uber WAV when we need spontaneous trips; it’s not always instantly available, but the option is there. We also schedule rides with a local volunteer driving group for his social club meetings. It requires more coordination than hopping in a car, but these services make his continued community involvement possible.

[VonCody]

Navigating a new city without driving is entirely possible with some prep. Upon arrival, I immediately figure out the public transit: buying a weekly pass for unlimited bus and subway travel is my first move. For areas not served well by transit, bike-share stations are a lifesaver. I always have two or three ride-sharing apps downloaded because promotions and availability vary. A major pro tip: look for hotels or rentals in neighborhoods with high “walkability scores” near transit hubs. This approach lets me explore spontaneously, avoids parking nightmares, and immerses me in the city’s rhythm in a way driving never could.