LA Metro Accessibility Guide: Wheelchair, Mobility Aid, and ADA Information

LA Metro is Fully ADA Compliant

LA Metro complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides full accessibility across all rail lines, stations, and buses. Whether you use a wheelchair, walker, cane, service animal, or have mobility limitations, LA Metro is designed for your safe travel to Olympic venues.

All modern LA Metro rail stations feature elevators, accessible entrances, and level boarding at platforms. The train fleet includes dedicated wheelchair spaces, audio and visual announcements, and accessible restrooms.

Wheelchair and Mobility Device Access

Boarding the Train

LA Metro trains feature:

• Level or near-level boarding from platform to train floor (minimal gap)
• Ramps or lifts at older stations where gaps exist
• No stairs required to board at modern stations
• Train operators can assist if needed

Wheelchair Spaces on Trains

Every LA Metro rail car has dedicated wheelchair and companion spaces. These are marked on the floor and are free to use. Here's what to expect:

• Location: Usually one space per car, typically near the center
• Size: Space designed for standard wheelchairs and scooters
• Securing Your Device: You do not have to secure your chair if you prefer not to — staff will not ask you to move
• Companion Space: A standing area right next to the wheelchair space for a caregiver or companion
• Accessible Restroom: Available on longer rail lines

If You Use a Scooter or Mobility Vehicle

Mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs are allowed on all LA Metro trains and buses, provided they meet size specifications:

• Size Limit: Generally, devices must be no larger than 30 inches wide and 48 inches long
• Backup Power: Keep your device charged — limited charging is not available on trains
• Courtesy: Yield the designated wheelchair space if someone else needs it more than you do
• Assistance: Staff can assist if your device has mechanical issues — call for help at the next station

Station Accessibility

Elevators at All Modern Stations

All LA Metro rail stations built in the last 20+ years have elevators. Even older stations have been retrofitted with elevators to ensure accessibility. If an elevator is temporarily out of service:

• Alternative accessible routes are posted in the station
• Staff can provide assistance if needed
• Contact LA Metro (below) to report broken elevators so they can be fixed quickly

Accessible Entrances

Every station has at least one fully accessible entrance with:

• Level entry (no stairs required)
• Automatic doors or doors that can be opened with minimal force
• Clear signage for accessible entrances
• Staff to assist if needed

Tactile Warnings and Braille

All LA Metro stations include:

• Tactile warning strips at platform edges to alert visually impaired riders
• Braille signage at station names and elevator buttons
• Audio announcements at stations and on trains (with audio and visual cues)
• Service animals welcome throughout the system

Audio and Visual Announcements

Every LA Metro train and station provides both audio and visual announcements:

Accessible Parking at Stations

If you drive to a Metro station, accessible parking spaces are available at most Park and Ride lots:

• Designated accessible spaces near station entrances
• Spaces comply with ADA width and access requirements
• No special permit required for visitors with valid disability placards

Contact the specific Park and Ride lot ahead of time if you need to confirm accessible parking availability.

Service Animals

Service animals (guide dogs, mobility assistance dogs, etc.) are welcome on all LA Metro buses, trains, and at stations. Here's what you need to know:

• Service animals do not require special documentation or tickets
• Your service animal rides with you free of charge
• Emotional support animals are generally not considered service animals under ADA (they may not be allowed on transit)
• Your animal must be under your control at all times (harnessed, leashed, or contained)
• Staff will not question your service animal if it's clearly trained

Paratransit (ACCESS) Service

If you cannot use fixed-route LA Metro buses or trains due to a disability, you may qualify for ACCESS, LA Metro's complementary paratransit service:

Who Qualifies

• People unable to board, ride, or exit a fixed-route bus or train due to a disability
• People with disabilities who cannot navigate to a bus stop or station
• People with a disability-related condition that prevents them from using the fixed-route system

How to Apply

To apply for ACCESS:

1. Visit accessla.org or call (800) 621-7828
2. Complete an eligibility application (can be done online or by phone)
3. Schedule an in-person assessment or phone assessment
4. Receive your eligibility determination (usually within 21 days)
5. Receive your ACCESS card and can begin using the service

ACCESS Service Details

• Cost: Same as fixed-route fares ($1.75 per trip with TAP card)
• Service Area: Covers most of LA County
• Advance Booking: You must call ahead to request a ride (usually 24 hours notice)
• No Capacity Limits: Unlike some transit systems, LA Metro ACCESS has no limits on trips
• Essential Travel: Rides to medical appointments, work, shopping, and recreation are covered

Getting Help at Stations

Staff are available at major stations and can assist with:

• Navigation to platforms or accessible entrances
• Operating elevators if you need assistance
• Providing directions to Olympic venues
• Offering alternative routes if elevators are temporarily out of service
• Assisting with boarding or exiting trains

Don't hesitate to ask for help — Metro staff are trained in accessibility assistance.

Planning Your Accessible Route to Olympic Venues

When planning your Olympic trip:

1. Use the Journey Planner at metro.net — select "I have a disability" to see accessible route options
2. Call LA Metro Customer Relations at (323) 922-2000 and speak with an accessibility specialist
3. Download the LA Metro app for real-time station information and elevator status
4. Visit your starting and ending stations in advance if possible to familiarize yourself with layouts
5. Plan extra time for your trip to account for elevator waits or navigation time

Real-Time Elevator Status

LA Metro provides real-time information on elevator and escalator outages:

• Online: Visit metro.net/alerts/ for service disruptions and equipment outages
• LA Metro App: Push notifications alert you to service changes and equipment issues
• Call: (323) 922-2000 for information on specific stations

Accessible Restrooms

LA Metro stations have accessible restrooms (ADA-compliant):

• Located at major stations throughout the system
• Usually near the paid area or platform level
• Accessible for wheelchair users and people with mobility limitations
• Ask station staff if you cannot locate the accessible restroom

Staying Hydrated and Taking Breaks

During the 2028 Olympics, you may be traveling longer distances with extended wait times:

• Bring water and stay hydrated throughout your trip
• Major stations have benches for rest
• Some stations have nearby cafes or restaurants
• Plan breaks if you're traveling more than 1 hour

Companion or Personal Care Attendant

If you travel with a personal care attendant or companion:

• Your companion rides free on LA Metro (no ticket required)
• Both you and your companion fit in the designated wheelchair and companion space
• Your companion can assist with boarding, navigation, and care as needed

Communication Accessibility

For people who are deaf or hard of hearing:

• Video relay services available at customer service locations
• TTY (text telephone) available at some stations
• All audio announcements have visual indicators
• Station staff can communicate via written notes if needed
• Service animals (guide dogs) are welcome

Reporting Accessibility Issues

If you encounter an accessibility problem during your trip:

• Immediate Issues: Alert station staff or call the emergency button on the train
• Non-Emergency Issues: Call LA Metro at (323) 922-2000 within 24 hours
• Online: File a complaint at metro.net/feedback/
• Equipment Outages: Report broken elevators or escalators for quick repair

Contact Information for Accessibility Support