Many people are asking how to use Lime Access, and it’s no wonder why. Transportation costs can add up. Gas is expensive. Cars break down. Mass transit can be unreliable or completely unavailable, and when you do manage to catch a bus, paying the fare can take your wallet for a ride. Simply finding a way to get where you need to go can be a major barrier to finding and keeping a job, educational opportunity and/or childcare. Fortunately, Lime Access may be able to help.
If you live in an urban area, you’ve likely seen Lime’s green and white e-scooters and bikes around town but you may not know about the company’s program for low income riders. Lime Access brings affordable and sustainable “micromobile” transportation to those of us who might otherwise be hoofing it or completely stranded.
This article will cover everything you need to know about how to use Lime Access, including who is eligible and how you can access the service.
About Lime Access
Lime Access is a program designed to provide affordable, accessible transportation options to underserved communities, offering discounted rates for low income riders and those without smartphones or credit cards.
Who is Eligible for Lime Access?
You may be eligible for Lime Access if you receive one or more of the benefits or services listed below:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- Medicaid
- Reduced-rate utility bill (e.g. CARE in California)
- Free or reduced school lunch program (NSLP)
- Reduced transit fare program
- Social Security Supplemental Income (SSI)
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Federal, local, or state-subsidized housing
- Pell Grant
In some cities, Lime Access is also available to anyone with a student, military, or veteran’s ID. Check the website to find out if any of these options are available where you live.
How do I sign up for Lime Access?
If you have a smartphone and a credit card, you just need to visit the Lime Access website and click “Where do I apply?” This will guide you through the application process.
You may need to provide proof of eligibility in order to complete your application.
How to Use Lime Access
To get going Lime-style, download the free Lime app and create an account. Once you do that, you’ll be able to see rates for your city. Standard rates are $1 to unlock, then around 40-50 cents a minute, depending on your location.
Lime Access riders can expect to pay lower rates than these. This discount will vary, depending on where you live.
Step 1: Find a Scooter
Check the map on the app to see where available vehicles are located. When you reach one, tap Scan, which opens the app’s camera. Now, point it at the vehicle’s QR code to unlock it.
If you do not have a smartphone, you can text (888) 495-5014 to access an e-bike or scooter without using the app. If you don’t have a credit card, you can receive a PayNearMe payment code that you can use instead.
Step 2: Do a Safety Check
Before you speed off, familiarize yourself with your city’s e-scooter and bike laws. These always appear on-screen after you scan. Many municipalities impose hefty fines for riding micromoble vehicles on sidewalks.
A helmet is also recommended. If you don’t have one, there are many free or low-cost helmet options available. Google to see what’s available in your city.
Step 3: Get Going
To start riding a Lime e-scooter, Place your front foot firmly on the baseboard of the e-scooter, then to get moving, push off from the ground with your back foot. Slowly press down on the throttle to accelerate. Slow down or stop by gently squeezing the brake levers.
Ride a Lime e-bike the way you would ride a traditional bike. As you pedal, the electric motor automatically kicks in gradually, giving you a boost up hills.
Most Lime scooters travel at a maximum speed of 15 to 17 miles per hour. Fully charged, they can travel up to 20-37 miles, depending on scooter and battery model and size, how rough the surface conditions are, how much you carry, and how fast you go. Traveling at top speeds will deplete the battery faster. A Lime e-bike’s top speed is around 14 mph. On a full battery, it can travel up to 25 miles.
FAQ about Lime Access
Discover answers to frequently asked questions about Lime Access, a powerful initiative aimed at making sustainable, shared transportation accessible and affordable for everyone.
Is Lime Access available where I live?
As of this publication, Lime Access is available in the following cities:
- Arizona: Phoenix
- California: Los Angeles, Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose
- Colorado: Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Grand Junction
- Florida: St. Petersburg, Tampa
- Georgia: Atlanta
- Idaho: Boise
- Illinois: Chicago
- Indiana: Evansville, Indianapolis
- Maryland: Baltimore
- Michigan: Detroit, Grand Rapids
- Minnesota: Minneapolis/St.Paul
- Missouri: Carthage, St. Louis
- Nebraska: Omaha
- New York: New York
- North Carolina: Charlotte, Raleigh
- Ohio: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus
- Oklahoma: Oklahoma City, Tulsa
- Oregon: Portland
- Pennsylvania: Philadelphia
- South Carolina: Charleston
- Tennessee: Nashville
- Texas: Arlington, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Lubbock
- Utah: Ogden, Salt Lake City
- Virginia: Norfolk
- Washington: Seattle, Spokane
- Washington DC: Washington DC
- Wisconsin: Milwaukee
For an updated list of locations, please visit the Lime Access website.
How do I find a Lime e-scooter or bike?
You can find the nearest Lime e-scooter or bike by downloading the free Lime app and using the map.
What laws should electric scooter and bike riders know about?
Laws in your city appear on-screen when you use the app. This is a great way to stay updated on how to stay safe and operate your Lime rental legally.
Are there any limitations or restrictions on using Lime Access benefits?
If your application is approved, there are no restrictions. You can ride as often as you’d like.
Relief Recap
Learning how to use Lime Access can be a key piece of the mobility puzzle for underserved communities. If you’re looking for affordable and sustainable transportation, and the breeze on your face sounds invigorating, hop on! If micromobility is not an option for your situation, share the information here with friends or family who might benefit.
