Transportation Guide for Families

Transportation services that are available to families vary by school, and by each child’s eligibility for those services. Speak with your school if you have questions about the available options.

Options 

• MetroCards are distributed by your school for use on MTA subways & non-express buses
• Stop-to-School Transportation picks up and drops off students at designated bus stops
• Curb-to-School Transportation is arranged to meet a student’s particular needs 

Eligibility

• MetroCards: Live greater than one-half (1/2) mile from school 
• Stop-to-School Transportation: Depends on grade-based distance requirements
• Curb-to-School Transportation: Need an IEP listing transportation accommodations 

Students who are Temporarily Housed (including Homeless and Foster Care)

• Students in temporary housing in grades K-6 (or 7-8 with an IEP but no recommendation for transportation) are eligible for busing to school
• Parent(s)/Guardian(s) are entitled to receive a MetroCard (distributed by your child’s school) to accompany your child to and from school
• Speak to your shelter staff or the DOE's Regional Manager for more information on the process: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/special-situations/students-in-temporary-housing

Preparation

• Ensure all emergency contact information is kept up to date
• Update your school with any changes to residency or living arrangements
• Know your bus stop, and arrive 5-10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time

Support

• Contact your school (find your school’s information at schools.nyc.gov/find-a-school)
• Subscribe to receive emergency alerts through the Notify NYC mobile app
• FAQ / Help Form
• schools.nyc.gov/transportation
• For STH & SFC, connect with a Regional Manager at schools.nyc.gov/school-life/special-situations/students-in-temporary-housing

Rights

• Transportation rights for students and their families are available at schools.nyc.gov/transportation-rights

Summer School

• Students may be eligible for summer school busing; visit the summer school page at https://www.schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/summer

Weather Emergency

• Our weather emergency procedures, created with the NYPD, Fire Department, and NYC Emergency Management, are available at schools.nyc.gov/transportation 

Transportation Reminders

• Register: Sign up for your free NYC Schools Account to view real-time bus information and service changes
• Keep us updated: Immediately notify your school and bus driver of any changes in your address or contact information
• Meet your bus team: Get to know your bus driver and attendant, and make sure you have your bus company’s phone number
  • Bus Companies for School-Age Children
  • Pre-K and Early Intervention Bus Companies
• Practice safety: Review the Safe Travel Tips with your child, available at schools.nyc.gov/safe-travel-tips 

Have Questions?

Contact your school, or visit schools.nyc.gov/transportation.