Traveling with a service animal

Transit agencies must let service animals ride with their handlers on buses, trains and paratransit vehicles, and in stations (49 CFR 37.167(d)).

What counts as a service animal on transit

• DOT’s transit rules define a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog or other animal individually trained to work or perform tasks for a person with a disability (49 CFR 37.3).
• This transportation definition was not changed when the Department of Justice narrowed its own ADA definition for other public places. An animal accepted on transit may not be treated as a service animal elsewhere (FTA FAQ).
• Animals whose only role is emotional support or comfort are not service animals under these rules. An agency may choose to allow them; that is a local decision (FTA: comfort animals).

What staff may and may not ask

• Staff may ask whether the animal is a service animal and what tasks it has been trained to perform (FTA).
• Staff may not require a special ID card for the animal or ask about your disability (FTA).
• There is no limit on the number of service animals one rider may bring, as long as each one meets the definition and is under control (FTA FAQ).

When an animal can be refused

Only if the animal is out of control and you do not take effective action to control it, or if it poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others (FTA). On allergies, FTA notes that encountering service animals is part of being out in public and that agencies must allow trained service animals (FTA FAQ).

Fees and care

• DOT’s guidance gives charging extra to carry a service animal as an example of a prohibited special charge (Appendix D to Part 37, on 37.5).
• Caring for the animal is your responsibility (or your PCA’s). A request that the driver take charge of the animal may be denied (Appendix E to Part 37, item 15).

Practical tips for paratransit

• Many agencies ask you to note a service animal in your rider profile or when you book, so the trip can be planned with enough space. Check your rider guide.
• Keep the animal under control and close to you during boarding and the ride.
• Traveling with a companion or attendant as well? See attendants and companions.

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