Starlight Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use the Starlight service?

Simply call 362-5115. Tell the VIA agent where you want to be picked up and where you need to go. Be prepared to provide specific addresses, contact phone number and the time you would like to be picked up. A specially marked vehicle will pick you up. Reservations can be made seven days to 2 hours in advance.

Will I be riding in the vehicle alone?

With Starlight service you might be the only rider or you might share the ride with other Starlight customers. The driver will determine the order in which the Starlight riders will be dropped off. The vehicle cannot carry Starlight riders and non-Starlight riders at the same time.

Where can I go on Starlight service?

The Starlight service can pick riders up and drop them off at any address within Loop 410 and an extension to the Medical Center area bordered by Hamilton Wolfe on the north, Fredericksburg on the east, and Babcock on the west. Starlight service is not available inside military bases.

When can I ride Starlight service?

Starlight service is available from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. seven days a week.

What is the Starlight service fare?

The base fare for Starlight service is $5.50 each way per person. VIA monthly passes and tickets are not valid on Starlight service. As with VIA’s bus service, a half fare of $2.75 for Starlight service is available to:

• Seniors (62 and older)
• Students
• Persons with disabilities
• Medicare recipients
• Children 5-11. Children 4 and under ride free with an adult.

A VIA Reduced Fare ID or VIAtrans ID card is required and must be presented to the taxi driver at pick up. Children are not required to have an ID. Please mention you are eligible for half fare when making a reservation. For details on VIA’s discount programs please call 210-362-2020.

As a VIAtrans rider, I ride the bus for free. What fare do I pay for Starlight service?

VIAtrans clients are eligible for VIA’s half fare for Starlight service. Personal Care Attendants (PCA) riding with a VIAtrans client can ride Starlight for free. See above.

When can I make a reservation?

Reservations can be made as early as seven days and no later than two hours in advance. You can make several reservations at a time. Reservation agents are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 362-5115.

I would like to be picked up every day at the same time. Do I have to make a reservation every day?

No. Because you can make reservations seven days in advance, if you need the service every day we suggest you schedule a week’s worth of trips at a time.

How do I pay the Starlight driver?

The Starlight drivers accept cash and credit cards. VIA monthly passes and tickets are not valid on Starlight service. Operator will collect the fare at pick-up point.

Should I tip the Starlight driver?

Tipping Starlight service drivers is not required and drivers are instructed not to accept tips.

Can I get a receipt from the driver?

Yes. Some companies want to pay for their employees’ rides home late at night. A receipt can be given to these employers as proof of ridership.

I made a reservation, but I was late and missed my pick-up. What can I do?

The drivers will wait at least five minutes from the pick-up time. At that time the Starlight dispatch will try to contact you if you have left a phone number. If customers miss a pick-up and the vehicle has left, customers must call Starlight reservations at 362-5115 and arrange for a new pick-up time no sooner than 2 hours. Other transportation arrangements may have to be made.

Do the Starlight drivers run late picking people up?

VIA works with the Starlight provider to monitor and assure timely service. However, due to traffic and other uncontrollable circumstances, the drivers may be late. The vehicle is considered on time if they arrive within 15 minutes of the scheduled pick-up time.

What is your cancellation policy?

To avoid unnecessary burden and cost on the system, cancellations should be made at least one hour in advance by calling 362-5115. Customers who consistently fail to cancel reservations they don’t use may lose access to the service.

What is available for riders with special needs?

Accessible vehicles are available. Please let the reservation agent know at the time of the reservation if you require a lift, have a service animal, or have any other special needs.

Can I take my bicycle on Starlight service?

Special arrangements can be made to accommodate some bicycles if you let the reservation agent know when booking your trip.