Transportation Assistance Resources in Kentucky

Last updated September 12, 2026

Getting to medical appointments, job interviews, grocery stores, and essential services can be a serious challenge in Kentucky, especially in the state's many rural counties where public transit is limited or nonexistent. Several federally funded and state-administered programs exist specifically to help low-income residents, older adults, people with disabilities, and others who cannot easily access private transportation.

If you are unsure where to start, calling 2-1-1 Kentucky is one of the fastest ways to find transportation resources in your specific county. Trained specialists can connect you with local transit agencies, volunteer driver programs, and other services that may not be widely advertised. You can reach 2-1-1 by dialing 2-1-1 or texting your zip code to 898-211.

Below you will find an overview of the most reliable transportation assistance options available statewide. Eligibility rules and availability can vary by region, so always confirm details directly with the program before making plans.

Key programs in Kentucky

Kentucky Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Provides free rides to and from Medicaid-covered medical appointments — such as doctor visits, dialysis, mental health treatment, and pharmacy trips — for eligible Kentucky Medicaid members who have no other means of transportation.

How to access: Kentucky Medicaid members should contact their managed care organization (MCO) — such as Aetna Better Health, Anthem, Humana CareSource, Molina, or United Healthcare — directly to request a ride. Requests typically need to be made at least 48 to 72 hours in advance. You can also call the Kentucky Medicaid member helpline at 1-800-635-2570 for guidance on which MCO manages your benefits.

Area Agencies on Aging — Transportation for Older Adults

Kentucky's 15 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) coordinate transportation services for adults aged 60 and older, including rides to medical appointments, meal sites, and community activities. Services may include volunteer driver programs, subsidized transit passes, or coordination with local transit systems.

How to access: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. ET) to be connected with your local Area Agency on Aging in Kentucky. You can also dial 2-1-1 to reach your regional AAA directly. There is no set income requirement to inquire, and services are often free or offered on a sliding-scale basis.

Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) — Transportation Support

Adults with disabilities who are working toward employment may be eligible for transportation assistance as part of an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) through the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. This can include help with bus passes, mileage reimbursement, or vehicle modifications.

How to access: Contact the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation through the Kentucky Career Center system. You can find your nearest office by visiting the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet website or calling 1-800-372-7172. A vocational rehabilitation counselor will work with you to determine what transportation supports fit your employment plan.

Community Action Agency Transportation Programs

Many of Kentucky's Community Action Agencies operate local transportation programs for low-income residents, including subsidized bus passes, gas vouchers, or direct ride services for people seeking employment, childcare, healthcare, or other essential needs. Services vary significantly by county.

How to access: Call 2-1-1 Kentucky or visit the Kentucky Community Action Association (KYCA) website to find the Community Action Agency serving your county. Explain your transportation need when you call — agencies often have multiple programs and can match you with the most appropriate one.

Federal Transit Administration Section 5310 Program — Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

This federally funded program, administered in Kentucky by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, provides grants to nonprofits and local governments to operate transportation services specifically for older adults and people with disabilities. Riders access these services through local providers funded by the program.

How to access: Residents do not apply to the Section 5310 program directly. Instead, call 2-1-1 Kentucky or contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's Office of Transportation Delivery at (502) 564-4610 to be directed to a Section 5310-funded provider in your area.

Transportation Assistance resources for Kentucky

211 Transportation Assistance

Nationwide

Referrals to local transportation and medical-ride programs. Dial 211.

211
Visit

Eldercare Locator — Transportation

Nationwide

Connects older adults and caregivers to local transportation services.

1-800-677-1116
Visit

Free Charity Cars

Nationwide

The Original 1-800-Charity Cars, 800CharityCars.org (Charity Cars, Inc. DBA: Free Charity Cars), non-profit car-donation / distribution program in the nation. Struggling families nationwide apply for a free charity car. MUST REAPPLY EVERY 3 MONTHS!

Austin, Texas
Visit

GoGo Grandparent

Nationwide

Connects seniors and people with disabilities to essential services. With just one phone call, you can order rides, groceries, meals, prescriptions, and even home help—without needing a smartphone or app.

Dallas, Texas1 (855) 755-2721
Visit

National Aging & Disability Transportation Center

Nationwide

Transportation options and assistance for older adults and people with disabilities.

1-866-983-3222
Visit

Progressive’s Keys to Progress®

Nationwide

Annual vehicle‑giveaway program that provides about 100 donated cars each November to U.S. veterans, their families, and veteran‑focused organizations, with over 1,200 vehicles gifted since 2013. A nationwide veteran‑support initiative run by Progressive Insurance.

Mayfield Village, Ohio1-855-347-3939
Visit
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