How to apply for Public transit rides (HIRTA) — Madison in Iowa

Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency (HIRTA)

Who it's for

Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency (HIRTA) gives door-to-door public transit rides in Madison County, open to the general public, including people with disabilities. Call 1-877-686-0029, email erides@ridehirta.com, or use the HIRTA On Demand app to book a ride, and tell them the date, time and place. In Madison County, rides run Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fares are one-way: $3.00 in town and $6.00 in the county; trips to Des Moines are $6 from Grimes, Norwalk and Waukee and $25 from other areas. If you are 60 or older, ask whether you qualify for donation-based rides, which are partly funded through Aging Resources of Central Iowa. Drivers pick you up within a 20-minute window and help riders who use a wheelchair or scooter.

Service areas, hours, and fares are set by the transit provider; call ahead to schedule and ask about senior or disability fares.

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

  • None — call to schedule a ride

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-877-686-0029

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Public transit rides (HIRTA) — Madison. 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 none — call to schedule a ride — 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

none

Official source →Last verified · October 21, 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.