A vanpool is a prearranged group of 5 to 15 people who share a ride to and from work on a regular schedule. It works best and is most cost effective for longer commutes - 20 miles and beyond. Participants usually live and work in approximately the same areas, and work roughly the same hours.
Vanpool passengers pay a low monthly fare based on daily round trip mileage and the number of riders in the van. These fares cover the cost of operating the vanpool, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Each vanpool must have a primary driver and at least one back-up driver, as well as someone who is willing to collect the fares.
For a vanpool a minimum of 5 fare paying passengers is required; the driver may choose to pay a fare and be included in this number. Under most circumstances, the primary driver does not pay a fare in exchange for ensuring that the vanpool is safely operated to and from work every day.
