Transportation Assistance Resources in Utah
Last updated September 11, 2026
Getting around in Utah can be challenging, especially in rural areas where public transit is limited or nonexistent. Whether you need a ride to a medical appointment, help with gas costs, or ongoing transportation support, several programs exist to help Utah residents who are low-income, elderly, disabled, or experiencing a crisis situation.
Your fastest starting point is 2-1-1 Utah, a free statewide helpline that connects residents to local transportation resources, volunteer driver programs, and community assistance. You can call or text 211, or visit 211utah.org to search for programs by ZIP code. Specialists are available 24/7 and can help identify options you may not know about.
If you qualify for Medicaid, you may already be entitled to free non-emergency medical transportation at no cost to you. Beyond Medicaid, Area Agencies on Aging, transit authorities, and community action agencies across the state offer additional options worth exploring with the help of a case manager or social worker.
Key programs in Utah
Utah Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
Covers free rides to and from Medicaid-covered medical appointments for eligible enrollees who have no other means of transportation. This includes doctor visits, dialysis, mental health appointments, and more.
How to access: Contact the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or your Medicaid managed care plan to request a ride. You can also apply for Medicaid through Utah's eligibility portal at jobs.utah.gov/mycase or call 1-800-662-9651.
2-1-1 Utah Transportation Referrals
Connects residents to local volunteer driver programs, transit assistance, fuel vouchers, and community transportation resources across all Utah counties, including rural and frontier areas.
How to access: Call or text 211, available 24 hours a day. You can also chat or search by ZIP code at 211utah.org. Specialists will assess your situation and refer you to the most appropriate local option.
Eldercare Locator – Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
Utah's Area Agencies on Aging fund transportation services for adults aged 60 and older, including volunteer driver programs, discounted transit passes, and escort services to medical appointments.
How to access: Call the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–8 PM ET) to be connected to your local Utah AAA. You can also visit eldercare.acl.gov. No income requirement to inquire; individual programs vary.
VA Transportation for Veterans
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers transportation assistance to eligible veterans for VA-covered medical appointments, including the Veterans Transportation Service (VTS) and Beneficiary Travel reimbursement for qualifying veterans.
How to access: Contact the nearest VA medical center in Utah (Salt Lake City VA Medical Center: 801-582-1565) or visit va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay to learn about Beneficiary Travel. You can also ask a VA social worker to coordinate rides through the Veterans Transportation Service.
Community Action Agencies – Transportation and Fuel Assistance
Community Action Agencies throughout Utah may provide emergency gas vouchers, bus passes, or referrals to transportation programs for low-income individuals and families. Availability and eligibility vary by county and funding.
How to access: Call 211 to find the Community Action Agency serving your county, or visit the Utah Community Action Partnership website. Bring documentation of income and the reason for your transportation need when you call.
Transportation Assistance resources for Utah
211 Transportation Assistance
NationwideReferrals to local transportation and medical-ride programs. Dial 211.
Eldercare Locator — Transportation
NationwideConnects older adults and caregivers to local transportation services.
Free Charity Cars
NationwideThe 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!
GoGo Grandparent
NationwideConnects 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.
National Aging & Disability Transportation Center
NationwideTransportation options and assistance for older adults and people with disabilities.
Progressive’s Keys to Progress®
NationwideAnnual 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.