How to apply for Public Demand-Response Rides (OATS Transit) — Taney in Missouri

Who it's for

OATS Transit serves Taney County with The most urban OATS service in the region: Branson/Hollister in-town Monday-Friday, Forsyth in-town Monday-Friday, and service to Branson from the Forsyth area/eastern Taney County and from western Taney County Monday-Friday. Office hours Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Book at 417-887-9272 or 800-770-6287. Fares (one way): in-town rural communities $2.00, in-county $3.00, adjacent county $4.00, long distance $6.00. OATS Transit is open to riders of any age — the page for this county states it is 'available to anyone regardless of age, income, disability, race, gender, religion, or national origin'. Fares are listed above, but riders age 60 and older — and riders with disabilities — who travel under the Area Agency on Aging contract do not pay a set fare. They are asked to contribute what they can instead. Ask about the AAA contract when you book. Call ahead, as rides are scheduled in advance. Call 1-417-887-9272 for schedules, fares, or to book a ride.

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Public Demand-Response Rides (OATS Transit) — Taney. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm you live in Taney County, Missouri, since service is limited to this area.
2. Gather your proof of Taney County residency. If you are age 60 or older or have a disability and want the reduced AAA-contract fare, also gather proof of age or disability.
3. Apply online or call OATS Transit at 1-417-887-9272 (or toll-free 800-770-6287) to check eligibility, ask about schedules, and book your ride. Phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
4. When you call or apply, let the representative know which service area you need — Branson/Hollister in-town, Forsyth in-town, or a route connecting Forsyth/eastern or western Taney County to Branson.
5. Confirm your fare with the representative. One-way fares vary by trip type: in-town rural communities, in-county, adjacent county, or long distance.
6. Book each ride as needed, or ask about fare card renewal if you use the service regularly.

What to expect: After you contact OATS Transit, a representative will confirm your eligibility and help schedule your ride. Processing times vary, so ask the agency how far in advance you should book. Because service areas, reduced-fare eligibility, and ride availability are set by the transit provider, your qualification may vary — the representative can give you the most accurate information for your situation. There is no single annual renewal; instead, you book per trip or renew a fare card as needed, so stay in touch with OATS Transit to keep rides on the schedule.

Renewals

per trip / fare card renewal