For senior living and disability programs
Funding an accessible bus with a Section 5310 grant
Section 5310 is the federal program that pays most of the cost of an accessible vehicle for organizations that transport older adults and people with disabilities. It usually covers 80% of a vehicle, up to 85% for an accessible one, and you apply through your state's department of transportation.
How to apply
- 1
Find your state's 5310 program
Each state's department of transportation runs Section 5310, and large urban areas may have their own designated recipient. Search your state DOT site for "5310" and note the application window, which most states open once a year.
- 2
Get into the coordinated plan
A 5310 project has to come from a locally developed coordinated public transit and human services transportation plan. Ask your regional planning organization or transit agency how to have your riders' needs included before the call for projects opens.
- 3
Line up the local match
The federal share for a vehicle is usually 80%, and up to 85% for an accessible vehicle that meets federal accessibility rules (49 CFR Part 38). Your organization funds the rest, and some states add their own share.
- 4
Confirm which vehicles qualify
Many states buy vehicles through a state contract, and rules on used vehicles vary. Ask your state program which buses qualify before you choose one.
- 5
Take it to your board
Your board approves the match, the vehicle and who drives it. The board proposal tool writes that document with the funding section included.
Accessible buses for sale
- Small buses with a lift14 passengers or fewer, no CDL under federal rules
- Wheelchair accessible busesLift or ramp with securement positions
- Paratransit busesBuilt for door-to-door accessible service
Not sure about licensing? The CDL bus checker tells you which license a bus needs.
Common questions
What is a Section 5310 grant?
Section 5310, Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities, is a Federal Transit Administration program that funds transportation for older adults and people with disabilities. It is run through each state's department of transportation, and buying accessible vehicles is one of its most common uses.
Can a senior living community get a 5310 grant?
A private nonprofit organization can be a 5310 subrecipient, as can state and local government agencies and operators of public transportation. A for-profit community is generally not eligible on its own, but can work with an eligible nonprofit or transit agency in its area. Confirm eligibility with your state program.
How much does 5310 pay toward a bus?
Usually 80% of the vehicle cost, and up to 85% for a vehicle that meets federal accessibility rules. Your organization pays the local match. Some states contribute part of the match.
Can 5310 buy a used bus?
It depends on the state. Many state programs buy new vehicles through a state contract. Ask your state program before you pick a vehicle.
What should an accessible bus for senior living have?
A wheelchair lift or ramp, securement positions for the number of wheelchair users you carry, grab rails and a low first step, and seating that keeps you under the CDL line if your drivers do not hold one: 14 passengers or fewer plus the driver, counting each wheelchair position.