Carpooling is the simplest and most common ridesharing arrangement.

Carpooling reduces the total number of commute trips made because each passenger, in addition to the driver, represents one less vehicle trip. By sharing the ride, carpoolers save money on fuel, insurance, and car maintenance.

Carpooling can also reduce time spent on the road, because carpools can use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. When they’re not behind the wheel, carpoolers can read, nap, or chat during their commute, reducing the stress of the drive. Carpooling also helps reduce air pollution, traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

Registered RideSmart commuters are eligible to participate in the Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) program, sponsored by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG). For more information click on Guaranteed Ride Home.

Carpooling Advantages:

  • Less stress commuting to and from work
  • Financial savings due to sharing commuting costs
  • Increases free time for riders
  • If an HOV lane is available, trips may take less time
  • Reduces air pollution due to emissions
  • Reduces the need for parking

Find the carpools in your area by signing up for free ride-matching here. For more information on what to do once you have set up a carpool, click here.