The RIDE COVID-19 Policies
Updated May 10, 2023
Mask Policy
As of May 11, 2023, masks are encouraged but not required for passengers and drivers in RIDE vehicles. This change coincides with the end of Massachusetts' COVID-19 public health emergency. Please note that we are still unable to transport customers with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.
Positive COVID Test Policy
The RIDE is not a medical transport, and we cannot provide service to customers with an active COVID diagnosis. The RIDE is small-vehicle public transit, and it is not possible to safely distance riders with COVID from others, including the driver.
- If you are or have been ill with COVID, you must make transportation arrangements other than The RIDE until you have been medically cleared.
- If The RIDE transports you to a COVID testing site and you are confirmed to be COVID positive, we cannot transport you home after the positive test.
Additional Policy Changes Effective May 29, 2021
- Consistent with the MBTA’s decision to remove capacity restrictions from vehicles, ridesharing has been reintroduced.
- Booking windows have been adjusted. RIDE customers must book trips one to five days in advance.
The Mobility Center
Not sure where to start? Call the Mobility Center* to learn more about accessible transit options, including The RIDE.
*As of May 11, 2023, masks are encouraged but not required for staff and visitors at the Mobility Center.
The RIDE
Booking The RIDE to and from Vaccination, Booster, and Testing Sites
The RIDE customers can book trips to travel to and from their vaccination, booster, and testing appointments.
We recommend that customers book two trips on The RIDE for each appointment—one for the drop off at the appointment site, and one for the return trip. Drivers cannot wait after dropping off customers for appointments.
Booking Tips for In-person and Drive-through Sites
Ready to schedule a trip to and from your appointment? Consider these tips first:
Vaccination and Booster Site Accessibility
All Massachusetts vaccine sites offer the following:
- Accessible entrances
- Waiting areas with seating available before and after vaccine appointments
- Staff available for mobility assistance and direction
- Accessible pick-up and drop-off areas
- Wheelchairs provided on-site
Wearing Masks on The RIDE Flex
Our RIDE Flex partners, Uber and Lyft, have different mask policies than the T. Stay up to date so you can pick the ride that's most comfortable for you.
Check for the latest RIDE Flex mask mandatesAdditional Vaccination and Booster Travel Options
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In-home vaccination and booster programs
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In-home vaccination programs offered by the state may be available to people unable to leave their homes.
Learn more about in-home vaccination programs
Riders can also check with their local board of health or council on aging, as some municipalities are operating local homebound vaccination programs as well.
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MassHealth transportation
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All MassHealth members are eligible for transportation to and from vaccine sites. If you are a member who normally has access to transportation, you may ask your doctor to submit a vaccine transportation request on your behalf.
Call the MassHealth Customer Service Center at 800-841-2900.
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RideMatch
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RideMatch assists users in finding public and private transportation options in their communities.
The Mobility Center
Not sure where to start? Call the Mobility Center* to learn more about accessible transit options, including The RIDE.
*As of May 11, 2023, masks are encouraged but not required for staff and visitors at the Mobility Center.