How to apply for Wave Transit Reduced Fare + DART Paratransit (New Hanover County)

Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority (Wave Transit), the public transit operator for the Wilmington / New Hanover County area.

Who it's for

Wave Transit runs fixed-route buses in Wilmington and New Hanover County and offers a reduced one-way fare for riders who are seniors, who have a disability, or who use Medicare. DART (Dial-A-Ride Transportation) is the ADA complementary paratransit service for riders who cannot use the fixed-route bus because of a disability. Call DART at 910-202-2053 to apply for paratransit, or call customer service at 910-343-0106 to ask about the reduced fare.

New Hanover: Wave Transit offers a reduced fixed-route fare for seniors, Medicare card holders, and riders with a disability; DART paratransit requires ADA eligibility and is for riders who cannot use the regular bus.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • Proof of age 65+ or Medicare card (for reduced fare)
  • For DART paratransit: completed ADA eligibility application
  • Proof of New Hanover County residency

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 910-343-0106

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Wave Transit Reduced Fare + DART Paratransit (New Hanover County). 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. I understand I may need proof of age 65+ or Medicare card (for reduced fare), for DART paratransit: completed ADA eligibility application, proof of New Hanover County residency — is anything else required? 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.

Renewals

varies by program

Official source →Last verified · September 24, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.