Vanpool FAQs
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What is a vanpool?
A vanpool is a group of people (usually 10 – 14 passengers)
who share a similar schedule (from a local origin to a shared destination(s)
and arriving and departing at the destination(s) at similar times)
commuting together in a 14 passenger van (9 passenger vans are
available for smaller groups).
How does a vanpool work?
One person in the vanpool usually volunteers to be the driver/coordinator
(though sometimes separate people handle this responsibility). Participants
in a vanpool pay a monthly fee that covers the vehicle lease, maintenance,
insurance, gas, parking and tolls. The price varies according to
the length of your commute, whether you pay for parking or if your
commute includes tolls.
Can I save money by vanpooling?
The answer is yes. In addition to splitting the cost for gas and
tolls, vanpoolers also save money on car maintenance bills, reduce
their vehicle depreciation and can save money on their annual car
insurance costs. Some employers also provide pre-tax benefits
that allow the employee to pay for vanpool costs from their gross
pay (saving both the employee and employer additional tax liability).
Who drives the van?
The driver is a member of the vanpool group who volunteers to drive
the vanpool daily. Most times the driver receives a discounted
or free vanpool fare for acting in this capacity for the group. Vanpool
drivers must be over 25 years old, possess a valid driver's license,
and have at least 5 years of driving experience. In addition, vanpool
drivers must submit their driving records and pass a credit check
prior to being approved as a vanpool driver.
What if the driver is sick, or on vacation?
Vanpool groups usually identify at least one additional group member
(and in most cases 2 to 3 group members) who can and will serve as
back-up drivers in the event of sickness, an emergency, or for
scheduled vacations.
Do I have to make a long-term commitment to a vanpool?
The commitment for both passengers and for the vehicle lease is
30 days. Passengers must provide one month notice to the vanpool
when they plan to leave the group. Similarly, if the vanpool
is dissolving, the group must provide a 30 day notice to the vanpool
lease provider.
What if I need to get home for an emergency?
The North Shore TMA has a Guaranteed
Ride Home Program that provides
you with a ride home up to four times per year in the event of unplanned
overtime or an emergency. Click
here for additional information.
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