STAR Transit Guide for Rockwall Residents

STAR Transit is a public transportation service in Rockwall County, offering affordable, accessible rides for commuters, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. With fares starting at $2.00 and monthly passes as low as $24.00 for eligible riders, it connects Rockwall to key destinations like DART stations and Dallas medical centers. Services include pre-scheduled Dial-a-Ride, same-day STARNow rides, and Medicaid non-emergency medical transport. All vehicles are ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all users. Visit RockwallConnect.com for schedules, updates, and booking details.

STAR Transit Services in Rockwall

Service Areas and Coverage

STAR Transit serves Rockwall County and nearby areas, including Kaufman County, Mesquite, Balch Springs, Seagoville, and more. It also provides connections from Rockwall to key destinations in Dallas, such as the DART UNT Dallas Station, Camp Wisdom Station, UNT Dallas Campus, Dallas College – Cedar Valley, and Paul Quinn College. For medical trips, riders can schedule in advance. Keep in mind, all rides must be reserved either through the STARNow app or by phone - walk-up bookings are not available.

Types of Services Available

STAR Transit provides three main services to cater to different transportation needs:

• Demand Response (Dial-A-Ride): This option requires bookings at least one business day in advance and allows scheduling up to two weeks ahead. It's perfect for regular commutes like work or medical appointments.
• STARNow: A same-day, on-demand service that can be arranged via an app or phone call. Occasionally, rideshare options are integrated to increase flexibility, making it a great choice for last-minute errands.
• Non-Emergency Medical Transportation for Medicaid Clients: This service is booked through the rider's health plan. Medicaid clients also benefit from Client Advocates, who can assist during medical visits or limited shopping trips at no extra charge.

These options ensure that riders can choose a service that fits their schedule and needs.

Operating Hours and Eligibility

STAR Transit operates Monday through Friday, from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. Scheduling is available between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. The service is closed on major holidays, including New Year's Day, MLK Jr. Day, President's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (and the following day), Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

STAR Transit is open to all residents within its service area, with no restrictive eligibility requirements. Riders aged 60 and older, veterans, and individuals with disabilities can enjoy a 50% discount on fares. To verify eligibility for these reduced rates, contact the STAR Transit office at 877-631-5278. Additionally, the entire fleet of 55 vehicles is ADA-compliant, featuring wheelchair lifts or ramps, so there's no need for a separate paratransit pass.

With these details in mind, the next section will explore fares and payment options.

Fares, Passes, and Payment Options

Fare Breakdown

STAR Transit uses two fare systems: a distance-based fare for Dial-a-Ride services and a flat $2.00 rate for STARNow rides.

For Dial-a-Ride (Demand Response), fares vary based on trip distance, starting at $2.00 for trips under 5 miles and going up to $12.00 for trips over 25 miles. Children aged 12 and under can ride for free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Keep in mind that if you transfer between services - say, from a DART GoLink to a STARNow vehicle - you’ll need to pay a separate fare for the second ride.

Distance	General Fare	Reduced Fare (60+, Veterans, Disabled)
0–5 miles	$2.00	$1.00
5.1–10 miles	$4.00	$2.00
10.1–15 miles	$6.00	$3.00
15.1–20 miles	$8.00	$4.00
20.1–25 miles	$10.00	$5.00
Over 25 miles	$12.00	$6.00

For frequent riders, pass options can help reduce costs.

Pass Options and Reduced Fares

If you’re using STARNow services, consider purchasing passes for added savings. A full-fare Day Pass is $3.00, while eligible riders pay just $1.50. For long-term use, a 31-Day Pass costs $48.00, with reduced fare riders paying $24.00. These passes allow unlimited rides during their validity period, making them ideal for regular commuters.

To qualify for reduced fares, contact STAR Transit at 877-631-5278. You’ll need to present a valid State-issued ID, Military ID, Medicare card, or STAR Transit reduced fare ID when boarding fixed-route buses.

Now, let’s explore how to pay for your ride. You can also explore Rockwall area businesses while planning your trip.

How to Pay

STAR Transit offers several payment options to make your ride hassle-free. Note that drivers cannot provide change, so be sure to have the exact fare ready.

"A paid fare is required when boarding a STAR Transit vehicle. Drivers are not able to make change." - STAR Transit

For digital payments, the GoPass app is a convenient way to purchase Day or 31-Day Passes for STARNow and fixed-route services. However, GoPass tickets cannot be used for Dial-a-Ride trips. Alternatively, you can pre-pay using a credit or debit card by calling 877-631-5278 or adding account credits through the STAR Transit website.

If your STARNow trip involves an Uber vehicle, the fare remains the same, and payment is processed after the ride. Any temporary holds on your account will be released if the trip doesn’t occur.

Booking Rides and Connecting to Dallas

How to Book a Ride

STAR Transit offers two convenient ways to book your ride, depending on your travel needs. If you're planning a same-day trip, you can use the STARNow app or call 877‑631‑5278 at least 30 minutes before your desired pickup time. For trips planned in advance, the Demand Response (Dial‑a‑Ride) service lets you book between one business day and up to two weeks ahead.

To book through the STARNow app, simply enter your destination and pickup details, select any accessibility options, choose your payment method, and tap "Request Ride". The app keeps you updated with real-time text notifications and allows you to track your vehicle's location. For those connecting to DART services, the GoPass app is your go-to tool for booking STAR Transit rides and planning your journey.

Keep in mind: Drivers will wait up to five minutes at your pickup location. If you need to cancel, make sure to do so at least one hour before your scheduled time to avoid being marked as a "no-show".

For medical appointments in Dallas, advance booking is required through the call center. When scheduling via the app, select the "Arrive By" option instead of "Leave At" to ensure you reach your destination on time, especially for shared rides. This approach helps align your trip with your schedule seamlessly.

Using STARNow and GoPass

The STARNow app is perfect for same-day rides within designated zones, while the GoPass app serves as a one-stop solution for planning multi-leg trips. With GoPass, you can book STAR Transit rides, purchase digital Day or 31‑Day Passes, and coordinate connections to DART services.

For those who prefer, the STARNow app also offers the option to request Uber rides at no extra cost. The fare remains $2.00, with payment processed after the ride. Note that this Uber partnership is only available for same-day STARNow trips and does not apply to pre-booked Dial‑a‑Ride services.

If you don’t use a smartphone, you can still book a STARNow ride by calling 877‑631‑5278 during office hours (Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.).

Connecting to Dallas via DART

Once your ride is booked, connecting to Dallas is straightforward thanks to STAR Transit and DART's seamless integration. The Lake Ray Hubbard Transit Center is a key hub for commuters in the Rockwall area and can be reached via STARNow. Other major transfer points include Buckner Station (accessible via Route 101 or STARNow), Lawnview Station (with Saturday shuttles departing Hanby Stadium at 6:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., and 8:00 a.m.), UNT Dallas Station, and Camp Wisdom Station.

"By connecting in this way, our riders have access to virtually every transit option in DART's service area", says Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director.

"For just a few dollars, you can connect to the State Fair with STAR Transit and DART, saving the expense, time, and headache of finding parking near the fairgrounds", Henricks adds.

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Tips for Rockwall Commuters

Planning Your Travel

STAR Transit operates within a 30-minute pickup window, meaning your ride could arrive up to 15 minutes early or 15 minutes late. To stay on schedule, be ready at least five minutes before your pickup time. If you need to cancel, make sure to notify the service at least one hour in advance to avoid any penalties.

When booking trips that connect to DART trains or buses, it's a good idea to use the "Arrive By" option in the app. This ensures you’ll reach connection points like the DART Downtown Rowlett Station on time, even if your shared ride includes stops for other passengers. For trips planned further in advance, you can schedule Dial-A-Ride services anywhere from one business day to two weeks ahead by calling 877-631-5278 during their operating hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.).

Keep in mind, accumulating three no-shows within 30 days may lead to a one-month suspension of service. Also, if you're paying with cash, bring the exact amount since drivers cannot provide change.

After planning your trip, make sure to follow proper etiquette to help ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Rider Etiquette and Accessibility

All STAR Transit vehicles are designed to meet ADA requirements, accommodating wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, and canes. If you need additional help, one personal attendant can ride with you at no cost. Service animals and comfort animals are also welcome on board.

Make sure your baggage stays within the allowed limits, and if you’re traveling with a stroller, it must be folded to meet safety standards. Seatbelts are required for all passengers, and mobility devices must be secured with four-point tie-downs. Since this is a shared-ride service, be prepared for possible stops to pick up or drop off other passengers along the way.

Staying Informed with RockwallConnect.com

RockwallConnect.com is a great resource for real-time updates on road closures or events that might affect your route. This can help you adjust your travel plans as needed. For immediate transit updates, you can also use the STARNow or GoPass apps.

Don’t forget to check STARtransit.org for announcements about holiday closures. STAR Transit does not operate on major holidays, such as New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Making STAR Transit Work for You

For Rockwall residents, STAR Transit provides an affordable and stress-free way to travel to Dallas and nearby areas, skipping the headaches of driving and parking. With fares starting at just $2.00 and a 31-day pass for $48.00, it’s a budget-friendly solution for commuters looking to save on transportation costs.

What makes STAR Transit even more convenient are its flexible booking options. If you’ve taken the same trip consistently for 30 days, you can set up recurring rides for your daily commute. Plus, STAR Transit offers free travel training sessions to help new riders feel confident navigating the system.

"By connecting in this way, our riders have access to virtually every transit option in DART's service area." - Tommy Henricks, Executive Director, STAR Transit

STAR Transit connects to DART stations like the Downtown Rowlett Station, giving riders access to job hubs, medical centers, entertainment venues, and shopping destinations across the Dallas metro area. These connections, paired with digital tools, integrate STAR Transit seamlessly into Rockwall’s vibrant community, as highlighted on RockwallConnect.com.

Head to RockwallConnect.com for real-time transit updates and local news. With these tools and transit apps, public transportation can easily become a smooth part of your daily routine.

FAQs

Who qualifies for reduced fares on STAR Transit, and how can I apply?

If you’re 60 or older, a veteran, or a person with a disability, you might be eligible for reduced fares on STAR Transit. To get started, contact STAR Transit at 877-631-5278 to confirm your eligibility.

Make sure you have the right documents ready. Acceptable forms of proof include a state-issued ID showing your age, a military ID, a Medicare card, or a STAR Transit reduced-fare ID. Having these on hand will help streamline the process when you reach out.

What’s the difference between STARNow and Dial-A-Ride services?

STARNow is a same-day, on-demand micro-transit service that you can book instantly through a mobile app or by calling 877-631-5278. It operates within specific zones, including Mesquite, Forney, and Terrell, so both your pickup and drop-off points need to be within these areas. The fares are budget-friendly, usually between $1 and $2, with discounts available for seniors, veterans, and disabled riders. The service runs Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours in some zones and limited availability on Saturdays. Wait times vary depending on vehicle availability.

Dial-A-Ride, on the other hand, offers scheduled, curb-to-curb service for trips across a broader area, covering Kaufman, Rockwall, Navarro, and Ellis counties. Reservations must be made at least one business day in advance. While it’s open to all riders, it primarily serves Medicaid-eligible passengers. Fares range from $1 to $12, depending on the distance, and discounts are available for seniors, veterans, and disabled riders. Service hours are generally Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with some locations offering extended hours. All vehicles are ADA-accessible.

STARNow is perfect for quick, same-day rides within defined zones, while Dial-A-Ride is a better fit for pre-planned trips that cover a wider area.

How can I book a STAR Transit ride if I don’t have a smartphone?

If you don’t have a smartphone, you can easily schedule a STAR Transit ride by phone. Just call 877-631-5278 during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) to connect with a scheduling agent.

When you call, have the following details ready: your name, pickup address, destination, preferred pickup time, and return time (if needed). The agent will confirm your trip details, including a 15-minute pickup window. For payment, you can either pay in cash when you board or prepay with a credit or debit card over the phone.

After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation number. Keep this number handy - it’s important if you need to make changes or cancel your ride by calling the same number.