CPUC Program Expands Wheelchair Accessible Rides

CA CPUC All News

Published March 24th, 2026

Detected March 25th, 2026

Summary

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has expanded its TNC Access for All Program to increase wheelchair accessible rides through app-based services. The program is funded by a 10-cent fee on participating rides and aims to improve availability and reduce wait times for individuals with disabilities.

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What changed

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has highlighted the expansion of its TNC Access for All Program, which aims to improve access to wheelchair-accessible vehicles for individuals with disabilities through ride-sharing apps like Lyft and Uber. The program is funded by a 10-cent fee on each ride from participating companies, with unused funds being made available to local agencies to create or expand their own accessible transportation initiatives. Currently, programs in 15 counties are benefiting from this initiative.

While this is an informational notice, regulated entities such as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) participating in the program should ensure compliance with funding allocation and service expansion requirements. Consumers with disabilities in California are encouraged to utilize these services, and local agencies seeking funding for accessible transportation programs should consult the CPUC's resources. The program's success relies on continued participation and effective fund utilization to remove barriers for specialized transportation.

What to do next

Participating TNCs should ensure compliance with funding allocation and service expansion requirements.
Local agencies should explore opportunities to create or expand accessible ride programs using available funds.
Compliance officers should review program details to understand implications for TNC operations in California.

Source document (simplified)

CPUC Program Helps Remove Barriers for Specialized Transportation

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March 24, 2026 - Getting to a doctor’s appointment. Heading to work. Meeting up with family or friends.

For many people, these are everyday trips b ut for Californians with disabilities, finding a reliable ride is not always simple. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are often limited, and long wait times can make even short trips difficult.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is working to change that through the TNC Access for All Program.

The program focuses on expanding access to wheelchair accessible rides through app-based services like Lyft and Uber. The goal is simple. Make it easier for people with disabilities to request a ride and get to where they are going safely and on time.

Watch the video below to learn how the program works and how it is making a difference across California.

TNC Access for All: Expanding On-Demand Wheelchair-Accessible Rides Across California

The Access for All Program is supported by a 10-cent fee on each ride taken through participating companies. Those funds are used to increase the number of wheelchair accessible vehicles, improve wait times, and support local programs that provide accessible rides.

When funding is not fully used by transportation companies, it is made available to local agencies. These agencies can create and expand programs that serve their communities directly.

Currentl y, local programs in 15 counties are helping more people get around with greater ease and independence.

Learn More

To learn more about the TNC Access for All Program, including where services are available, visit: cpuc.ca.gov/tncaccess

You can also reach the program team at: TNCAccess@cpuc.ca.gov

By Taseen Shamim, Public Information Officer