Partners
San Diego offers numerous options to help visitors with disabilities get around the region. Here are some of the key resources.
San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)
Phone: 619-233-3004 or 5-1-1
TTY: 888-722-4889
Service Area: San Diego, East County, South Bay
The MTS operates the wide-ranging San Diego Trolley as well as the comprehensive San Diego bus system. Buses and trolleys have ramps or lifts to provide access for riders using wheelchairs, scooters or other mobility aids. For visitors with visual impairments, buses and trolleys use auditory cues or signs with braille and raised letters. And for those with hearing impairments, trolley and transit stations are all equipped with easy-to-read signage. TTY/TDD numbers also are available so that riders may contact the MTS Regional Transit Information Office. These are just a few of the accessibility features offered; check the MTS accessibility webpage for more details.
North County Transit District
Accessibility Line: 760-726-1111
Travel Training: 760-966-6561
Service Area: San Diego North County
NCTD operates the bus system in San Diego's North County, as well as the Coaster commuter train that runs from Oceanside to San Diego, and the Sprinter light rail that offers east-west service between Oceanside and Escondido. All of NCTD's BREEZE, FLEX and LIFT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps or lifts, and all Sprinter rail cars provide level boarding with no steps required to board. Coaster rail cars provide ADA-accessible level boarding to the first car through the use of a bridge plate. See more details of the system's comprehensive accessibility options online.
MTS Access (Paratransit)
Certification: 877-232-7433, TTY: 310-410-0985
Reservation: 888-517-9627, TTY: 800-568-7097
Service Area: San Diego County
Make reservation 24-48 hours in advance; must be certified before using the service
For those unable to use fixed-route transit services, the MTS also offers MTS Access, a paratransit service that is comparable to the level of MTS fixed-route service. The service is offered within a ¾-mile radius of a nearby bus route and/or trolley station. MTS Access service is available during the same hours and days, including on holidays, as the MTS fixed route system. Click on the link for more details.
Some private transportation and tour services also offer accommodations for visitors with disabilities, including the following companies.
SureRide Executive Transportation
Phone: 619-517-5283
SureRide operates an ADA-compliant mini-coach with wheelchair access. Click here for information and reservations.
SOL Transportation
Phone: 866-765-3177
Sol Transportation provides non-emergency transportation services for ambulatory as well as wheelchair-mobile passengers throughout San Diego County.
Old Town Trolley Tours of San Diego
Phone: 619-298-8687
This popular tour operator offers extensive accommodations for those with disabilities. Click here for more details.
Hornblower Cruises & Events
Phone: 800-459-8105
Hornblower offers a variety of sightseeing cruises around scenic San Diego Bay. The company has accessible vessels in its fleet, although not all its vessels and decks are considered accessible. Hornblower advises calling its contact center at 800-459-8105 or chatting with an excursion specialist online to ensure accessibility for the date you're planning to cruise.
Amtrak
Phone: 800-USA-RAIL (800-872-7245)
Accessible spaces can be reserved by phone or in person only. Discount may be available. Make your reservation early to assure accessible accommodation.
Greyhound
Disabilities Travel Assistance Line: 800-752-4841
TTY/TDD: 800-345-3109
Call Disability Travel Line 48 hours in advance of reservation to assure accessible accommodation.
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