Miami-Dade Expands Access with Transport Permits

Miami-Dade issues permits for wheelchair and stretcher transport without medical care

Miami-Dade Adds Non-Emergency Transport Permits

Miami-Dade County's offering specialized transportation certificates for residents who need wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport but don't require medical care during trips. The Non-Emergency Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity allows providers to serve passengers whose conditions make regular transit impractical, transit officials said. The certification process involves comprehensive background checks and typically takes three to six months for approval.

Background

The certificate program fills a gap between standard for-hire transportation and emergency medical services, according to the county. Officials said the service targets individuals using wheelchairs, requiring stretcher transport, or having conditions that make conventional carriers unsuitable. Passengers neither need nor expect medical attention during transport, distinguishing these services from ambulance operations. The county didn't specify how many providers currently hold certificates or how many applications it receives annually.

Requirements

Applicants must pass background checks covering financial and criminal history before receiving Board of County Commissioners approval, officials said. All drivers need valid for-hire chauffeur registration, and vehicles undergo mandatory inspections. The two-step review process includes a public hearing before a committee and final board approval. Officials didn't provide specific details about inspection standards or the criteria used in background evaluations. Additional requirements include obtaining a Local Business Tax from Miami-Dade County and possibly a municipal license depending on location.

Timeline

The approval process typically takes three to six months from application date, transit officials said. Applicants can attend and comment at public hearings and will be notified of meeting dates and times. All regulatory and application fees are non-refundable and must be paid by check, money order, or cashier's check, though credit cards are accepted for in-person renewals. Officials haven't said whether the timeline varies based on application volume or complexity.

Impact

The certification program aims to ensure safe, regulated transportation for residents with mobility challenges who don't need emergency medical services. Officials said the background checks and vehicle inspections protect vulnerable passengers. Riders can use Moovit to plan trips and access real-time transit information across Miami-Dade County's transportation network.