Barrier-free travel – your questions, our answers
Plan a barrier-free trip with the BVG, use the tram as a wheelchair user – for those with physical disabilities, such topics can raise numerous questions. We aim to provide you with all relevant information on the subject of barrier-free travel with the BVG, so that the use of our public transportation is as easy as possible for you.
Additionally, helpful links and downloads can be found at the bottom of this page. If your question is still not answered by then, please contact our customer service.
Note: All practical information regarding barrier-free travel in Berlin can also be found in our Flyer Barrierfree 2021 (pdf) for download.
How do I plan an accessible route?
In our BVG connection search, you can configure the following accessibility settings under "Options" (gear icon on the right, above the "Search" button) according to your requirements: Not barrier-free, limited accesss, or barrier-free access. Under "barrier-free access", all accessible stations are displayed. The option "limited accesss" shows all stations with escalators. You can also select the length of the walkway.
How do I know if a station is barrier-free?
All barrier-free stations are marked with an elevator on the network map. At some stations, the platforms are accessible via ramps. These can be recognized by the ramp symbol.
Where can I find assistance or information at subway stations?
Simply use the information and emergency call boxes. These have three buttons:
- Red button: get help immediately.
- Yellow button: get information.
- Blue button: assistance or information made easily accesible for wheelchair users.
If I want to get on the subway with a wheelchair, what do I have to keep in mind?
The wheelchair icon on the display boards is the first sign that a train does not have any steps at the door. If you need a ramp to get on, stand where the first subway car stops. You can usually tell by looking at the large mirror on the platform. Give a sign to the driver. Then the mobile ramp, which is available at all barrier-free stations, will be folded out for you. Tell them where you want to get off.
How do I know if the elevator I need is working?
On the BVG elevator malfunctions page you can find information on subway elevator issues.
Find out about current elevator malfunctions of the U- and S-Bahn here.
Can I take the tram with a wheelchair?
Yes, there are barrier-free streetcars on all tram lines. The wheelchair symbol on the door shows you where you can board barrier-free – this may be at the first or second door. The barrier-free vehicles have ramps or lifts that are operated by the driver. This means you can get on and off even if the stop is not barrier-free.
I am visually impaired – how can I tell if the correct tram is waiting to depart in front of me?
If possible, wait for your tram toward the front of the stop. If the driver sees from your cane or armband that you are blind, they will make an announcement about the tram line over the loudspeaker.
In the future, we plan to equip all of our vehicles with automatic announcements. This means that there will be automatic announcements about the line in all trains and buses. You can find more information on this here (in German).
What tips are there for exiting with a walker?
The safest way is to exit backwards. Hold on to the handle next to the door and put both legs on the pavement first. Then pull the walker out after you. If you feel unsafe, please ask other passengers or the driver for help.
How do I safely park my mobility aid on buses and trains?
There are parking spaces for walkers, wheelchairs and baby strollers. Don't forget to apply the brakes and hold on tight during the ride. It is safest to face backwards with a wheelchair.
How do I show the driver that I need help getting on or off the train?
Stand clearly visible at the stop or on the platform and give a sign. Tell the driver what you need help with. If it is difficult for you to speak, you may show a card that says what type of assistance you need and where you want to get off.
What do I do if the walker/wheelchair/stroller parking space is occupied?
Talk to the other passengers. Maybe they can make room. In difficult situations, our drivers can also help.
How much does a ride with a severe disability cost?
You may take your walking aid, wheelchair, and any other aids with you free of charge. If you have a severely disabled pass with a valid token, the trip is free for you and an accompanying person. You can find information about the severely disabled pass at the pension office (in German).
Can I take an electric vehicle with me on local public transport?
In principle, yes. However, there are some conditions:
- You need the scooter as an aid.
- The scooter, together with you and your luggage, may not weigh more than 350 kg.
- The vehicle may be no more than 1.20 m long.
- In some trams, your electric vehicle may only be up to 1.10 m long. You can recognize these trams by the wheelchair symbol on the 1st door.
- The electric vehicle must have four wheels and must be placed on the wheelchair parking space facing the direction of travel.
- You must sit facing backwards in relation to the direction of travel. This ensures a safe ride for you and your fellow passengers.
You haven't had your electric scooter for long? Then we recommend that you practice getting in and out and maneuvering it during our mobility training sessions.
I have further questions about accessibility. Where can I go?
You can send questions and suggestions at any time by e-mail to info@bvg.de. You can also call the call center: 030-19449. From 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., there is also a dedicated phone number for accessibility questions: 030-256 34567.