The Carlsbad Senior Center offers two transportation programs for Carlsbad residents aged 60 and older who are unable to drive. Participants must be able to travel independently or with the assistance of an accompanying caregiver. Staff are not able to provide physical transfer assistance, medical-level care, or one-on-one supervision. Wheelchairs cannot be accommodated at this time.

Advanced registration is required for both programs. For more information or to register, contact the Nutrition and Transportation Services team at 442-339-2651 or SeniorCenterServices@carlsbadca.gov.

Roundtrip transportation to the noon congregate lunch program is available Monday through Friday. Pick-ups are between 10–11:30 a.m. and return trips between 1–2:30 p.m.

There is a suggested voluntary contribution of $4 per roundtrip. Contributions are confidential, and no eligible person shall be denied service for choosing not to contribute. Payment may be made by cash or check at the check-in table, or by credit card at the front desk.

Registered participants may schedule or cancel a ride by calling or texting the shuttle line at 760-613-8042. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance.

⚠️ For medical emergencies, call 911. This program is for non-emergency transportation only.

Roundtrip transportation to medical appointments and pharmacies in Carlsbad is available on select weekdays for a required $5-10 roundtrip fee.

Payment may be made in cash or by check at pickup, or by credit card at the front desk.

Registered participants may schedule or cancel a ride by calling or texting the NEMT line at 760-859-9352. Reservations must be made at least two business days in advance. Each participant is limited to a maximum of two trips per month.

Community Transportation Resources

The following services are available through regional and state programs. For additional options, call 2-1-1 or visit 211sandiego.org/transportation.

North County Transit District | gonctd.com

Local public transportation in Carlsbad — including train, bus, and shuttle services — is provided by the North County Transit District. NCTD BREEZE buses stop near major grocery stores, clinics, and community centers. Reduced fares are available for riders age 65+ with valid ID. For trip planning, visit gonctd.com or call (760) 966-6500.

LIFT Paratransit | gonctd.com/services/lift-paratransit

LIFT is a curb-to-curb transportation service operated by NCTD for individuals who are ADA-certified and unable to use regular fixed bus or train routes. Rides are available for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential trips. Service operates within 3/4 mile of NCTD routes, and reservations must be made at least one day in advance. To apply or schedule a ride, call (760) 726-1111 or visit gonctd.com.

RideFACT | factsd.org

RideFACT is a low-cost, curb-to-curb dial-a-ride service for adults age 60+ and individuals with disabilities throughout San Diego County. Operated by Facilitating Access to Coordinated Transportation (FACT), the program provides rides to medical visits, errands, and other essential destinations. Fares are typically $5–$20. Trips should be booked 3–7 days in advance by calling 888-924-3228 or visiting factsd.org.

Medi-Cal Transportation Benefit | dhcs.ca.gov

Medi-Cal provides transportation assistance to help eligible members access covered medical, dental, mental health, and pharmacy services. Two types of support are available: Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for individuals who require a wheelchair van, ambulance, or litter van due to a medical or physical condition; and Non-Medical Transportation (NMT) for those who can use regular transit but lack reliable access. NMT is available to all full-scope Medi-Cal recipients with no other reasonable means of transportation and may include rides to recurring appointments. Transportation must be scheduled in advance and approved by your Medi-Cal provider. Contact your health plan's member services department to request a ride or learn more.