Carpooling FAQs

What are the requirements to apply for the ABC Ramps carpool parking discount?

You and your passenger(s) must live north or west of Minneapolis and be able to logically use I-94 or I-394 to commute to work. You can apply for the carpool parking discount in several ways:

• Visit Metro Transit  online and fill out an application
• Call 612-370-3987
• Visit Commuter Connection, US Bank Plaza, 220 South 6th Street, Suite 230 Skyway Level

Do I have to renew my carpool registration?

Your permit is valid for six months after you first register your carpool. You will be mailed a renewal form before it expires. If you fail to renew your registration, your parking permit will be deactivated.

Do I always have to ride with the person(s) registered in my carpool?

No. You may pool with alternate or additional passengers at any time, but you are expected to regularly commute with your registered pooler(s).

Why can’t I drop off my passengers before I park at the ramp?

This requirement enables ABC Ramps to more easily account for registered carpools.

What happens if I don’t have a passenger in my vehicle when I enter the ramp?

When you drive alone, you will need to pay the regular daily rate. However, you don't have to carpool every day to save a lot of money. Check out our savings calculator to see your savings!!!

Does my carpool rate change if I don’t use it every day?

No. The carpool rate is $20 per month whether you carpool every day or not. Any day you park alone, you must pay the regular daily rate. Try to find a substitute carpooler or use alternative transportation, such as the bus.

Is my carpool contract good at all three ramps?

No, you must choose one of the 3 ramps (A, B, or C) when you register and park there each day.

Can I use any entrance with my carpool pass?

Yes, but you must use a carpool lane in the ramp entrance, or you will be required to pay the regular daily rate.

Do I need to submit a separate registration for the Guaranteed Ride Home program?

No. When you register your carpool, we automatically enroll you in the program. Every 6 months you’ll receive two coupons for an emergency ride home. They can be used as bus fare or light rail fare, or cab reimbursement of up to $25.

How do I get the free Ramp Ride Rail Go-to Card?

Each carpool member receives a special card for use as a bus pass when you register your carpool.

On which routes can I use my Ramp Ride Rail Go-to Card?

Your Go-to Card is good on any bus that serves Ramp A or B and travels within the downtown zone. Go-to Cards are also valid on the light rail train. Ramp C does not have bus service, but you can walk to the light rail station or Ramp B and ride the bus from there.

Why do carpoolers get to use the MnPASS lanes?

As a carpool incentive, vehicles with 2 or more passengers can use the MnPASS lanes for free to bypass traffic congestion. Visit MnPASS  for more information on this carpooling perk!

Will my child count as a passenger?

Yes, as long as they are in the vehicle when you enter the ramp.

Do vanpools receive any additional parking perks?

Yes! Registered vanpools with at least 5 members park for FREE! Vanpool drivers are also exempt from the drop-off rule and may drop passengers off before parking. For more information about vanpools visit the Metro Commuter Services  web site or Commuter Connection .

I don’t qualify for the carpool discount at ABC Ramps. Are there other ramps downtown that I may qualify for?

Yes! Several other parking locations downtown offer carpooling discounts. Contact Metro Transit  for more information (612-373-3333). Rates and availability vary.