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ACCESS LYNX Eligibility

Customers requesting transportation for the ACCESS LYNX program must first complete the appropriate eligibility application and submit it to the ACCESS LYNX Eligibility Section. LYNX Eligibility Section staff will review the form and follow eligibility guidelines for final eligibility determination. The customer will be instructed per telephone - as well as letter - as to their status and progress.

Eligibility requirements vary by program. Program determination is based on verification of the application and may also include a Functional Assessment. ACCESS LYNX uses three funding programs: ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), TD (Transportation for Disadvantaged) and Medicaid.

Fixed-Route Service

Public transportation in the Orlando tri-county area is becoming more accessible to persons with disabilities. Thanks to the ADA, improvements in accessibility makes traveling on fixed-route buses easier for all riders.

For the rider's benefit, LYNX buses have a computerized announcement system - known as "talking buses" - that announces major stops, intersections and connecting points to help riders recognize their bus stop or transfer point. Should the computer system malfunction, Operators are required to make the announcements.

Priority seating is available for riders who have difficulty standing while the bus is moving.
All LYNX buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts. Reserved spaces with secured straps are available for customers who use wheelchairs. The straps provide a safe and secure ride. Most buses have the capability to "kneel," lowering the bus steps for curb-level access - ask your Operator.
Some LYNX buses have an "Information Technology" visual monitoring system. This system gives our customers visual bus stop and intersection information.
Recently, the destination signs on some LYNX buses have been upgraded to provide a more bold and brilliant sign for easier reading.

We are committed to developing a public transportation system that everyone can use. We encourage individuals with disabilities to take advantage of the independence and flexibility that is available through fixed-routes. Both seniors and individuals with disabilities can ride at a reduced fare. Call the LYNX Customer Service center at 407-841-LYNX for route and fare information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question:
How many steps are there in the eligibility application process and how long will it take?
Answer:
You will be mailed an application. You must have the application completely filled out as directed. After ACCESS LYNX receives your application, it is checked for completion. The medical information you have given is confirmed through phone call follow-ups with your doctor. After your information has been confirmed, you may be notified immediately to set up an assessment appointment. Applicants are to be granted presumptive eligibility if a determination of eligibility has not been made within 21 days of the submission of a completed application. However, if you do not have your application filled out properly, or if you fail to make and keep your functional assessment appointment, you could cause a delay or even a no-response determination.

Question:
What are the guidelines for eligibility?
Answer:
Eligibility is not based just on the type of disability, distance to the closest bus stop, income, age or if a customer prefers door-to-door service. It is determined by whether or not the individual can or can not access the fixed-route bus system.

Question:
Do I need to call Eligibility to check on the status of my application?
Answer:
No. You will be notified of the results of your application by letter within 21 days after the application verification and assessment are completed.

Question:
How will I know if I am eligible or not eligible?
Answer:
You will receive a letter. It may contain a brochure that will include all information you will need to use the program or information on accessing the fixed-route bus service and Travel Training at no cost to you. It will also contain information on how to appeal the decision.

Question:
Are there different types of Eligibility?
Answer:
Yes. Some programs have different types of eligibility.
If your condition always prevents you from accessing the bus you may qualify for unconditional eligibility.
If your condition sometimes prevents you from accessing the bus you may qualify for conditional eligibility.
If your condition temporarily prevents you from accessing the bus you may qualify for transitional eligibility.

Question:
Who provides our Functional Assessment and Travel Training programs?
Answer:
A third party organization/agency who works with the disabled community to assist individuals in becoming self-sufficient.

Question:
How is the assessment performed?
Answer:
A Licensed Occupational Therapist will perform the assessment. A mobility assessment and/or a cognitive assessment is administered during an hour-long appointment that will be arranged with you through our Eligibility section. After the assessment, a written recommendation is given based on scoring and observations from the certified staff.

Question:
What is Travel Training?
Answer:
Travel Training is a program that teaches persons with disabilities how to ride on fixed-route buses. It is called "hands-on" training because certified trainers - who know how to work with special needs clients and who know the LYNX fixed-route bus system - work with you in the classroom as well as on the buses. After you have graduated from the class, you will feel comfortable and confident riding LYNX.

Question:
Once I am certified, how long am I eligible for the program?
Answer:
You will need to be re-certified every two years. Advance letters are issued.

Contact Information

ACCESS LYNX Eligibility
407-423-TRIP (8747) option 6
Out of service area: 1-800-556-TRIP (8747) option 6
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

ACCESS LYNX Customer Service and Reservations
407-423-TRIP (8747)
TDD: 407-423-0787

For more information about LYNX fixed-route buses, schedules and fare information:
LYNX Customer Service
407-841-LYNX (5969)
TTD: 407-423-0787
Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Apply Today

Potential clients must first fill out and send in an ACCESS LYNX Application form in order to be considered and evaluated for the transportation service. You may download an Acrobat version of the application form to print out, fill in and then mail to ACCESS LYNX.