SunRide: SunLine’s On-Demand Rideshare Service
SunRide is a microtransit service available in eight (8) Coachella Valley zones connecting riders to the fixed route network or to a single point of interest along a fixed route network in the designated zone. Riders can plan, book and keep track of their trips all from one application, the SunRide app, which will call for a SunRide vehicle to pick them up within walking distance of their specified location and drop them off at a bus stop or point of interest within the designated zones.
Trips can be scheduled ahead of time or on-demand.
Hours: SunRide is available Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Fare: $3 and includes a free transfer to SunLine local routes 1-9.
Be ready. Vehicles depart briefly after arriving at the pick-up point noted by the app.
Riders using SunRide cannot be guaranteed an ADA-compliant vehicle unless specifically requested when booking.
SunRide safety protocols include:
- Partition between passenger(s) and driver
- Wipe down of interior spaces between rides
- Nightly disinfecting fogging of vehicle
On March 18, SunRide will be upgrading your ride experience with the new SunRide - Powered by SunLine app.
The new app features:
● Simplified booking
● Clear ride proposal and pickup
● Real-time ride tracking
It will also be available in Spanish.
Service hours, zones, and price will stay the same. The new SunRide app will be On-Demand only, meaning no more booking in advance, and more efficient rides for you and fellow riders. Book your ride 20-40 minutes before you’re ready to leave.
All riders will need to download the new SunRide app to use the service. Service in the current SunRide app ends March 31.
Please email planning@sunline.org if you have any questions.
El 18 de marzo, SunRide mejorará tu experiencia de viaje con la nueva app SunRide - Powered by SunLine.
Las nuevas funciones de la app:
● Reservas simplificadas
● Propuesta de viaje y recogida claras
● Seguimiento de viajes en tiempo real
La app también estará disponible en español.
To order a SunRide, download the all new SunRide app.
Detailed Instructions for Using the SunRide App:
Anyone within the service area boundaries can summon a ride using the SunRide mobile app. Simply enter your destination address. A driver will be matched with you as soon as possible.
- Go to your app store and search “SunRide” to download the app. (Insert screenshot of images sent by VIA)
- Open the app, create an account and set up your payment options. This is a free account, and your information will not be shared, however; you will need to include your mobile phone number if you would like to receive text message notifications.
- Confirm your pick-up location and select your drop-off location. These must be within the service's designated zone shown on the map including bus stops if you plan to connect to a SunBus (your SunRide fare includes a FREE BUS TRANSFER).
- Select the number of passengers with you. If you need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, specify in "Special Instructions."
- Tap "Request Ride" when ready.
- Watch for your ride in real-time using the app to stay informed on your ride status, your driver’s name and the vehicle identification number. Do not get into a vehicle that does not match your SunRide driver description on the app.
For those who do not have a smart phone to download the app or who need assistance with SunRide travel planning including how to connect to a SunBus, call 760-539-9705.
SunRide FAQs
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An on-demand rideshare service is a mobility solution where passengers can book a ride that connects riders to SunLine’s Fixed Route Network as well as other stops within a defined zone. Trips can be scheduled through the SunRide mobile app or by phone when the ride is needed.
SunRide is the name of SunLine’s on-demand rideshare service, which is available in eight (8) Coachella Valley zones. Customers will be able to request an on-demand ride through the SunRide mobile phone app – which can be found and downloaded in a mobile device’s App Store – or by calling Customer Service at 760-539-9705.
SunRide is currently available in Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs/Desert Edge, Indio, La Quinta, Mecca/North Shore, Palm Desert and Palm Springs.
SunLine identified the chosen neighborhoods based on the greatest need to connect to its fixed-route bus system. SunLine is regularly evaluating the expansion of the service to additional zones within the Coachella Valley. We are also seeking additional funding partners to enhance this service.
SunRide can be booked by downloading the SunRide app at the Google Play store or the Apple App store, or through SunLine’s website. Customers need to set up an account using their name, phone number, email address and payment information. You may also book your trip by calling 760-539-9705.
All stops are identified in the SunRide app, and they include medical facilities, grocery stores, parks, libraries, schools, bus stops and more.
Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Wait times may vary, especially during peak hours.
Customers may get picked up from any bus stop identified as a SunRide stop or a virtual stop defined in the geo-fenced zone which is a short walk from their location within the zone.
You may get dropped off at any one of the bus stops identified as a SunRide stop or virtual stops within the defined geo-fenced zone.
No. Each geo-fenced zone is designed to connect riders to the bus route and businesses that service each specific zone.
This is an on-demand service and wait times may vary.
No. This is an on-demand service which means you need to book your ride through the SunRide app or by calling Customer Service at 760-539-9705.
Yes. One of the great advantages to this service is that the app will allow you to track your ride in real time so you will know when your ride will be arriving. You are also able to message the driver if there is a question or delay.
SunRide is $3.00 per person, per trip and includes a transfer to a fixed route bus (Routes 1-9). A ride/trip is defined as a pick-up and drop off within a defined zone.
You may pay the $3 fare directly through the SunRide app when you enter your credit/debit card payment information. If you don’t have a credit/debit card, you may purchase a reloadable credit card. You may also pay the fare in cash at the beginning of your trip. If paying by cash, you’ll need the exact amount of the fare as drivers will not be permitted to offer change. If you are transferring to or from a fixed route bus, be sure to let your driver know so he/she can give you the free transfer.
Yes. You may indicate the number of people traveling with you in the SunRide app when booking your trip. Please remember the fare is $3 per person, per trip and includes a transfer to SunLine’s Fixed Route Network.
Yes. SunLine’s on-demand rideshare service is just $3 per person, per trip and includes a bus transfer (Routes 1-9).
No. SunLine’s on-demand rideshare service is an independent fare.