Bay Area Commuter Carpool Network

The Bay Area Commuter Carpool Network is a partnership between MTC and several Bay Area counties that connects commuters, making it easier for them to find carpool matches and earn rewards. Commuters can view information from all relevant agencies with one account. Select your home or work county from the following list to learn more:

Join the network and get seamless access to carpool ride-matching and trip rewards.

FAQs

What are the benefits of carpooling?

Carpooling can save you money and time, and improve your quality of life. By sharing rides with two or more people, you can split driving costs, get discounts on bridge tolls, and avoid traffic by using carpool lanes (HOV/diamond/express lanes). Carpooling is also a great way to meet new people and help the environment. Additionally, you could be eligible for county financial incentives or benefits from your employer. 

What are carpool hours?

Carpool hours vary depending on where you are traveling, but you can find a list of hours and other details on our Carpool & Express Lanes page.

How many people do I need for a carpool?

A carpool consists of two or more people, or three or more people, including the driver, depending on your route. Check requirements and hours of carpool lanes and bridges that are along your commute to take advantage of carpool lanes.

How do I screen my potential carpoolers?

Contact your potential carpool partners to get to know them. Meet in a public place before starting and discuss your carpool. Don't travel with someone you don't trust. 511 Rideshare provides a referral service and does not certify the character of any potential carpool partners. Please review the 511 Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

What are my driving and riding options in a carpool?

You can drive, ride, or share. Carpool every day or just on the days that work for you.

What if I drive to daycare or school, or need to start/end my commute from another location that is not home/work?

You can set your origin and destination to any location, not just home or work. You can also choose a Park & Ride Lot or a transit stop near the start or end of your route.

What if I have to work late or have an emergency?

On days you drive, you’ll have your car to get home, but be sure to let fellow carpoolers know about your situation so they can make alternate arrangements. If you're a passenger, see if your employer or the county where you live and work offers a Guaranteed/Emergency Ride Home program. These programs can help you get home in an emergency on a day that you carpool, vanpool, etc., at no cost to you.

How much will I save? / How do I share the costs?

Carpooling can save you money by dividing driving expenses between members of the carpool. You can split costs evenly or base contributions on how often each person drives. If everyone takes turns driving equally, no money needs to change hands. If you're a passenger, you can contribute toward gas and other shared expenses.

Before you start or join a carpool, agree on the costs, schedule, and responsibilities of each participant. Discuss expenses and responsibilities with everyone.

Where can I find Park & Ride Lots?

To view a map of Park & Ride Lots:        

  1. Visit the 511 Interactive Map.   
  2. Select the 'Map Options' icon in the upper right corner of the map on the desktop version and at the bottom of the map on the mobile version.   
  3. Click the 'Carpool' map layer.   
  4. Click the checkbox next to 'Park & Ride.' Park & Ride lots should now be visible on the Interactive Map.
How do I create or join a carpool?

You can check out your county services to see if they offer ride-matching services.  You may be able to get a free list of carpool partners to connect with people to share rides and reduce the cost of driving.