Fort Lauderdale Accessible Transportation

Getting around Fort Lauderdale with a child who has special needs takes planning, but the city offers several solid options to keep your family moving comfortably and confidently.

Broward County Transit (BCT) Fixed-Route Buses

• All BCT buses are ADA-compliant and equipped with wheelchair ramps or kneeling features — no advance notice required.
• Request the stop announcement system from the driver if your child benefits from verbal cues at each stop.
• BCT offers a reduced fare program for riders with disabilities — bring a Medicare card or ADA eligibility letter to qualify.
• Download the BCT app or use Google Maps to preview the exact route before your trip to reduce anxiety for kids who need predictability.

Paratransit via BCT’s ACCESS Service

• ACCESS paratransit is a door-to-door shared-ride service for individuals who cannot use fixed-route buses due to a disability.
• You must apply for eligibility at least a few weeks before your trip — visit broward.org/BCT or call 954-357-8400 to start the process.
• Trips must be scheduled 1–2 days in advance, so build this into your itinerary planning.
• Inform the scheduler of any specific mobility equipment (power wheelchair, oxygen, communication device) when booking so the right vehicle is dispatched.

Rideshare & Taxi Accessible Options

• Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) is available in the Fort Lauderdale area — select it specifically in the app to request a vehicle with a ramp.
• Yellow Cab of Broward offers accessible vehicles; call 954-777-7777 and request an accessible cab explicitly when booking.
• For nonverbal children or those with communication needs, type your destination in the app’s notes field so the driver is informed before arrival.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

• Request a Passenger Assistance agent directly through your airline at least 48 hours before departure for wheelchair escort or sensory support.
• FLL offers hidden disability lanyards at the accessibility desk — these signal staff to offer extra patience without your child needing to explain.
• The Quiet Room near Terminal 3 provides a calm space if your child needs a sensory break during layovers or delays.
• Use the TSA Cares helpline (855-787-2227) 72 hours before your flight to arrange a dedicated support officer through security.

Tips for a Smoother Trip

• Carry printed documentation of your child’s diagnosis or mobility needs in case verbal explanation is difficult in the moment.
• Build in 15–20 extra minutes at every transit point — accessible boarding often takes longer and rushing adds stress.
• Keep a small sensory kit in your bag (noise-canceling headphones, fidgets, snacks) for unexpected waits at stops or curbside pickups.
• Save the BCT ACCESS and Broward 311 numbers in your phone before your trip so help is one tap away if plans change.