Using handyDART and the Bus
Can you use both services?
You can choose the transit service that works best for each trip. Some days, you may be able to use the regular bus. Other days, you may need the extra support of handyDART.
If you are new to riding the bus, contact your local handyDART office for help and guidance.
Wheelchairs and Scooters
Will your mobility aid fit?
handyDART vehicles have a ramp or rear lift that fits most wheelchairs and scooters. Your mobility aid must meet size, weight, and safety requirements.
For details, review the handyDART Mobility Aid Guidelines.
Using the Lift or Ramp
If you use a wheelchair or scooter, you will board and exit using the lift or ramp. Some ambulatory riders may also use the lift when space and securement areas are available.
Driver Assistance
How your driver can help
Your handyDART driver can:
- Help you to and from accessible building entrance doors
- Help you on and off the vehicle using the stairs or lift
- Secure your wheelchair, scooter, or CSA-approved child car seat
- Help you fasten your seatbelt
What drivers cannot do
Drivers are not able to:
- Search buildings or other areas for you
- Move wheelchairs on stairs or unsafe ramps
- Carry parcels
What is expected of you
You are expected to:
- Ask for the help you need, such as taking your arm or pushing your wheelchair
- Be ready and on time for pick-up
- Carry your own parcels, up to two items held on your lap
- Cancel trips as early as possible
Riders who repeatedly show unsafe or unacceptable behaviour may be required to travel with an attendant or may face a service suspension.
Friends, Attendants, and Pets
Bringing an attendant
If you need more support than the driver provides, you may travel with an attendant. Your attendant is responsible for your care during the trip.
You pay your fare, and your attendant rides free. Attendants cannot be registered handyDART riders, except in pre-approved situations.
Attendant or companion
An attendant travels with you to provide care and support and must be booked in advance. An attendant does not pay a fare.
A companion travels with you as a guest and does not provide assistance. Companions pay a full fare.
Travelling with companions
You may travel with friends or family when space allows. All companions pay full fare. Let the dispatcher know when you book your trip.
Children riding handyDART
Children under six must travel with an adult. Children under 18 kg, or 40 lbs, must use a CSA-approved car seat provided by the accompanying adult.
handyDART does not provide trips to programs where other government-funded transportation is available.
Pets on board
Small pets with fur or feathers are welcome if they are in a clean, secure, hand-held cage. The cage must fit on your lap or be held beside you on the floor if space allows. Cages must not block the aisle or affect other riders..
Guide and service dogs
Guide and service dogs are welcome in line with the Guide Dog and Service Dog Act and the B.C. Human Rights Code.
Dogs must be on leash or in a harness, remain under control, and not occupy a seat. They must not disrupt service, pose a risk to others, or damage the vehicle.
Parcels and Luggage
Bags and parcels
You may bring up to two parcels held on your lap. If you are travelling to the airport or ferry, luggage is allowed. Tell the booking agent when you reserve your trip.
Group trips
Group trips can be arranged for handyDART riders, attendants, and companions when space allows. Contact your local handyDART office to plan a group trip.
Feedback and Service Issues
Compliments and complaints
Your feedback matters. Contact us to share a compliment or concern about handyDART service.
Missing a Ride
No-shows and late cancellations
If the vehicle arrives within your 30-minute pick-up window and you are not present, the driver will wait up to five minutes. If you do not board, the trip is marked as a no-show and other trips that day are cancelled.
A late cancellation happens when a trip is cancelled within two hours of pick-up. Both no-shows and late cancellations limit service for other riders.
If you miss your ride
If you miss your pick-up, call handyDART right away. We will work with you to arrange another option. If an appointment runs late, call as soon as possible so we can adjust your trip.
Service Restrictions
When service may be suspended
If you have three unexplained no-shows or late cancellations within 30 days, your service may be suspended for two weeks. Subscription riders may also lose subscription status.
You will be notified by phone or mail when a no-show or late cancellation is recorded.
Appeals and behaviour guidelines
Trips will not count as no-shows or late cancellations when you provide a valid reason within 24 hours.
To keep service safe and reliable for everyone, handyDART may require an attendant or suspend service when riders repeatedly do not follow guidelines or show unsafe behaviour.
