Free gas card requests: 1-800-633-6157 Monday–Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. EST; Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. EST

Medicaid Transportation (NEMT) Explained

Updated Reviewed by the Free Gas Cards Foundation assistance teamSources cited

Medicaid non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is a required Medicaid benefit that provides free rides, transit passes or mileage reimbursement for covered medical appointments when you have no other way to get there. You schedule it through your state Medicaid agency, broker or health plan, usually 2–3 days in advance.

Grandmother using Medicaid transportation and gas reimbursement

What Medicaid transportation covers

  • Rides by van, taxi, rideshare or wheelchair vehicle
  • Bus or train passes
  • Mileage or gas reimbursement when you or a friend drives
  • Sometimes meals and lodging for long-distance care

How to schedule a ride or get gas reimbursement

  1. Call the member services number on your Medicaid card.
  2. Ask for transportation and give your appointment details.
  3. For mileage, ask how to register a driver and submit trip logs.

Find your state contact in our state guides.

If you don't have Medicaid

Ask your clinic's social worker, check patient transportation charities and apply for a free gas card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicaid pay for gas?

Many states reimburse mileage when you drive to covered appointments. Rules vary by state and plan.

How far in advance must I book?

Usually 2–3 business days. Urgent same-day trips may be possible.

Is Medicaid transportation free?

Generally yes for covered services, though a few states allow small copays.

Sources

Program rules change often. Always confirm details directly with the agency or charity before you apply. Free Gas Cards Foundation is not affiliated with the government agencies or charities listed.

James Carter, Program Director, Free Gas Cards Foundation
Written by the Free Gas Cards Foundation assistance team · Reviewed by James Carter, Program Director

Our team helps families apply for gas cards every day. This guide was researched from the official sources listed above and last reviewed on . Read our editorial policy, program rules and transparency commitments. Spot an error? Email info@freegascards.org.

Need help paying for gas this month?

Eligible households can receive a free gas card worth $100, $150 or $200 once every 6 months. Applying is free.

Apply for a Free Gas CardCall 1-800-633-6157