Pierce Transit determines eligibility based on the information provided in the SHUTTLE application and any information gathered through the eligibility process

  • You must submit an application.
  • The Eligibility department may fax questions to the applicant’s treatment provider to further clarify the functional capabilities (the application includes a release of information) and/or-
  • The applicant may be required to come in person for a functional assessment.
  • Assessments can be physical or cognitive, or both, depending upon the application.
  • Once the decision is made, a decision letter is mailed to the applicant.
  • For individuals found not eligible, temporarily eligible, or conditionally eligible (3B), they have 60 days to request an appeal.

How long will the process take?

  • Once Pierce Transit has a completed application with all the needed information, and required assessments have been completed, we will make a decision within 21 days.
  • If the decision-making process takes more than 21 days once all of the required information is received, the applicant will receive presumptive eligibility until the decision is made.
  • You will be notified by mail whether or not you are eligible for SHUTTLE paratransit services.

How will I be notified?

  • You will receive written notification by mail. Please be sure to add your full mailing address on your application.
  • If approved, you will receive information on how to utilize the SHUTTLE paratransit service.

What if I do not agree with the eligibility determination?

  • Any individual who is found not eligible, conditionally eligible, or temporarily eligible may appeal the decision within 60 days of the eligibility notice. All appeals must be in writing.
  • If you do not qualify for SHUTTLE or are outside the SHUTTLE service area, you can get information about transportation options by contacting:
    • Pierce Transit Travel Training Program – (253)589-6361
    • WIN 211 – Washington Information Network:
      2-1-1 or 253.572.4357 | 1-800-572-4357 | win211.org
    • Beyond the Borders – 2-1-1 or (253)572-4357 | 1-800-572-4357

Please note: A conditional determination is not a denial. If it was determined that you are Conditionally Eligible for SHUTTLE service, please click here for more information on conditional eligibility.

Appeal Process:

  • The appeal process is only necessary if you do not agree with your eligibility decision.
  • The appeal process is an informal hearing (brief interview) where the applicant has the ability to present information in person and receive an unbiased review and new decision from decision makers that had nothing to do with the original decision.
  • Once the appeal process is complete, the panel will decide within 30 days or paratransit service will be granted until the final decision is made.
  • The appeal is decided by a panel, including medical professional(s), rehabilitation professional(s) and a Pierce Transit employee.
  • You may bring someone with you to help explain your situation.
    If your appeal is based on new limitations not identified in the original application you will be advised to submit a new application that thoroughly identifies your limiting conditions.
  • The applicant may only appeal each application once.

What are the types of Eligibility?

ADA guidelines have specified three types of eligibility:

  • Full, Unconditional – the passenger may use SHUTTLE paratransit service for all trips
  • Conditional – the passenger may use SHUTTLE paratransit service under certain condition for some trips
  • Temporary – the passenger may have conditional or unconditional eligibility for a defined period of time because limitations are expected to change

ADA / Pierce Transit Eligibility Categories:

ADA 1 – Full Eligibility: For people with disabilities that prevent use of accessible buses under any circumstances; includes conditions that prevent boarding, deboarding, riding the bus, and navigating the system.

ADA 2 – Transitional Eligibility: For people who could use accessible regular bus service, but the type of accommodation needed is not commonly available. SHUTTLE service is provided when an accessible bus, bus stop, or bus route is not available. As we add accommodations to the regular bus system, eligibility for service will be re-evaluated.

ADA 3A – Conditional Eligibility: For people with disabilities which sometimes prevent them from boarding, deboarding, or riding a bus. SHUTTLE service is provided when use of local bus service is not possible. Individuals determine when to use the bus or when to use SHUTTLE.

ADA 3B – Conditional Eligibility: For people with disabilities that prevent them from traveling to or from some bus stops. Pierce Transit provides SHUTTLE service to and from the nearest transit center or major bus stop when conditions prevent travel. Pierce Transit staff determine what combination of SHUTTLE and regular bus service is required on a trip-by-trip basis and provide trip planning for each trip.