Services
Vanpooling is an important and economical option for individuals commuting long distances. It is also good for the environment. This option is popular in the Metropolitan Washington area because of commuting distances to work sites. In our region, vanpoolers may be eligible for up to $270 in tax-free transportation benefits each month.
Types of Vanpools
There are 3 kinds of vanpools:
- Owner-Operated Vans - An individual leases or purchases a van and operates the van independently. Riders generally meet at a central location and pay the owner a set monthly fee.
- Third-Party Vans - A vanpool "vendor" leases the vanpool vehicle for a monthly fee that includes the vehicle operating cost, insurance, and maintenance. The vendor can contract directly with 1 or more employees. The monthly lease fee is paid by the group of users. Military personnel may also benefit from this vanpooling arrangement.
- Employer-Provided Vans - The employer (or a group of employers) buys or leases vans for employees’ commute use. The employer organizes the vanpool riders and insures and maintains the vehicles. The employer may charge a fee to ride in the van or subsidize the service. Check with your company’s Human Resources Department.
Assistance in Finding Riders
Transit Services will assist new and existing vanpool / carpools in finding riders. Transit offers a financial subsidy for empty seats to vanpools in the first year of operation.
Additional Resources
- View information vanpool services in the greater metro region.
- Commute with Enterprise
- DMV Vanpool LLC