Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a trip?
Option 1
Directly with us by calling 734-475-9494 or sending an email to book.my.ride@wavebus.org.
Option 2
Through a booking partner, like your doctor’s office, senior center, Feonix Mobility (833-653-6544), or Ride Pingo Phone App.
Is there an app?
Yes, you can book a ride on your phone with the Ride Pingo App.
Are there alternative ways to pay? Can I pay monthly?
Cash (exact change – Our drivers do not carry change), prepaid bus pass ($20 value), or with a credit card through the Ride Pingo app.
Does pricing fluctuate?
All our fares are fixed based on the distance you are traveling and if your municipality has helped offset the cost of the ride.
Are there any discounts or payment assistance?
People with disabilities, people 60+ years of age, low income, and children through 12th Grade receive a 50% discount on all fares.
WAVE vouchers are paid for by Chelsea Senior Center’s ROAM program with funds from the AAACF Vital Seniors Initiative. Must be 60 or older and live in the Chelsea or Dexter school district. Vouchers are available while funding lasts. $40/month per senior. Contact the Chelsea Senior Center for these passes.
Our booking partners at Feonix Mobility also can offer fare assistance when you book through them (Online | Android App | Apple App).
There may be additional fare assistance programs for your area, please contact the office to get the latest information.
What do I do if I miss the bus?
On our door-to-door service, the van or bus will wait up to 5 minutes for you! They will come up to your door and call you if they are concerned you haven’t come out yet before they leave.
On our fixed route service, we have another bus coming in a bit, please look at our schedules for timing. You are also welcome to call the office to see if there is a ride available, but we cannot guarantee that.
Is there a limit to the number of items I can have with me?
We ask that you limit your goods to two bags* on our fixed route services as our drivers cannot help you with your things, a full bus with limited space, and we have a strict schedule to keep. We recommend using a bus cart for your things.
On door-to-door runs, we have flexibility. Please ask the dispatcher if there will be space for more than two bags on your ride.
*Faith in Action pantry participants are always welcome to bring as many bags of groceries as Faith in Action gives you.
Is there a lost and found?
All lost items are brought back to the office. Please call the office if you are missing anything after your ride.
Where can I find real-time updates about schedule changes?
The Website, Facebook, and Instagram are the best sources for updates.
Can I make a reservation for a large group?
Yes, but we are limited by the state of Michigan which groups we provide rides for and when. Please call the office to request more information.
What disability accommodations do the buses have?
All vehicles have a lift or ramp, have English as a Second Language communication assistance cards, hand rails, and lighting.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes! And we won’t ask to pet them.
Can I ask the driver for help if I need assistance? What can they help me with?
Our drivers are Passenger Assistance and Safety Standards certified and soon all will be CPR and First Aid Certified.
For safety purposes, our drivers cannot touch you while you are getting on and off the bus, but they can help you with the lift or ramp, help with groceries, and make sure you get to the door of your destination safely, and other tasks.
Can I bring a child and a stroller?
Of course! Children 5 and under ride free, and there is plenty of room for your stroller. We can use the lift to get you loaded onto the bus if that is easier too.
What do I do if someone becomes threatening on a bus?
Do not interfere—we do not want you to get hurt. Drivers will handle the situation based on their training, but please feel free to call WAVE office or the police—whichever makes you feel safer.
Is there a minimum age to ride?
Rides for all include all ages! Children must be at least 12 years old to ride by themselves.