Parking & Transportation

Transportation Services

Fairfax Parking Services
Sandy Creek Transit Center
4400 University Drive, MSN 1J6
(703) 993-2710
parking@gmu.edu

Monday – Friday
8:30 am – 5:00 pm*
*Closed from Noon-1 pm for lunch

Parking & Transportation Quiz

Discover your best ride! Take our short quiz to find out the easiest ways to get around George Mason University.

Fairfax Parking Services
Sandy Creek Transit Center
4400 University Drive, MSN 1J6
(703) 993-2710
parking@gmu.edu

Monday – Friday
8:30 am – 5:00 pm*
*Closed from Noon-1 pm for lunch

Parking & Transportation Quiz

Discover your best ride! Take our short quiz to find out the easiest ways to get around George Mason University.

Biking Programs at Mason

  • Register your bike with Parking and Transportation to receive a free U-lock, bike safety information, and other biking-related giveaways. Student registration is valid for five years, and for faculty/staff, the registration is valid for the duration of their employment. Students, faculty, and staff who live off-campus and do not own a parking permit will receive two daily complimentary parking passes* (general lots) per semester upon request when registering their bikes.
  • Bike Commuter Choice (Faculty/Staff Only): Faculty and staff are eligible for four different tiers of support based on how often and how far they bike to work. Earn rewards, complimentary daily parking passes, and other perks today!
  • Patriot Bike Checkout Program: This pilot is brought to the Mason community by Mason Recreation, the Office of Sustainability, and Parking & Transportation. The RAC/AFC has 20 bikes available for check-out at no cost with your valid Mason ID. Monday through Thursday is a one-day check-out, and Friday or Saturday check-out lasts until Sunday night.
  • Capital Bikeshare Discount for Students: Mason has joined the Capital Bikeshare University Program, offering enrolled students discounted $25 Capital Bikeshare annual memberships.

* Some Mason transportation programs include complimentary parking passes as an incentive. Virtual permits will not immediately impact these programs as we will continue to issue complimentary hangtags. This will be phased out over time, and we will eventually be issuing virtual permits/validations as the incentive. Please continue to check this space for updates.

Mason’s Bike Advisory Committee meets once per semester (in fall and spring) to provide guidance on a range of issues, including growing Mason’s cycling community and addressing cycling policy, programming, and culture both at Mason and in the broader regional community. The Committee also helps support the Mason cycling culture through volunteering to map routes for new cyclists. If you’re interested in joining the Committee, please email transpo@gmu.edu.

For campus community members who need assistance in mapping a bike route to Mason, please contact our bike volunteers for help. To sign up to volunteer, email transpo@gmu.edu.

NameEmailBike Route Area
Bine, Kathykbine@gmu.eduZIP Code 22031
(near the Vienna and Dunn Loring Metro Stations to the Fairfax Campus)
Herin, Greta Anngherin@gmu.eduZIP Codes 22032
and 22015
Kargbo, Ibrahimikargbo1@gmu.eduReston area
Kwartin, Bobrkwartin@gmu.eduZIP Code 22182 (Wolf Trap and North Vienna area)
Rebhuhn-glanz, Rebeccarrebhuhn@gmu.eduBetween West Drive
(off Route 123 in Fairfax City) and the Fairfax Campus
Snodgrass, Paulpsnodgra@gmu.eduAssistance to Mason Square (Arlington)
from South Arlington, Alexandria, as well as points west using the W&OD trail. Can assist riders from North Arlington and DC as well.
Sokolov, Vadimvsokolov@gmu.eduZIP Code 22032
(near Twinbrook and Braddock)
White, Dominicdwhite34@gmu.eduTo the Fairfax campus from southern Alexandria, Springfield, and Huntington

Fairfax Campus

Fairfax Campus Recognized as a Bike Friendly University

Mason Square

Mason Square Recognized as a Bike Friendly University

Mason encourages faculty, staff, and students to use shared transportation, such as carpooling, to help the university curb its carbon emissions and decrease traffic on campus. Faculty and staff can choose from three carpool programs and the vanpool program, and students have a choice of two carpool programs.

Note: Some Mason transportation programs include complimentary parking passes as an incentive. Virtual permits will not immediately impact these programs as we will continue to issue complimentary hangtags. This will be phased out over time, and we will eventually be issuing virtual permits/validations as the incentive. Please continue to check this space for updates.

Employee Carpool Programs

Carpooling is a great way to get to and from campus. Mason encourages faculty and staff to explore multiple ways to get to campus, such as carpooling, to help the university curb its carbon emissions and decrease traffic on campus. Please note: Faculty/Staff and Student permits are virtual as of Fall 2023, meaning one’s license plate must be registered to their permit in order to park on campus.

All faculty and staff are eligible to participate in the carpool programs (except Masonvale residents). A carpool consists of two or more people traveling together for at least half of their commute, 50% of the days they commute; some conditions apply. Please see individual carpool programs for details.

Carpool Zone Program
Faculty and staff with general permit passes can park in designated areas of Lot A and Rappahannock Parking Deck Monday – Friday between 7:00 am – 11:00 am as long as they have two people in their car with a general lot permit.

Carpool Preferred Program
Faculty and staff can park in designated parking spaces that are conveniently located in lots and decks.

Carpool Premium Program
Faculty and staff with a parking deck or reserved Lot I or reserved Lot J permit can receive between a 20% – 40% rebate on the parking permit for carpooling based upon how many people are in the carpool.

  • 20% – 2 people in the carpool
  • 30% – 3 people in the carpool
  • 40% – 4 people in the carpool

ProgramApplicationWhenCarpool SpacesRebate
Carpool ZoneNoMonday – Friday
7:00 – 11:00 am
Designated spaces in Lot A and first level of Rappahannock River DeckNo
Carpool PreferredAnnuallyAnytimeDesignated throughout campusNo
Carpool PremiumEach SemesterAnytimeLot I/Lot J reserved spaces or Parking Deck carpool spaces
(Can use other general lot car pool spaces but must be a Lot I, Lot J, or Deck permit holder to be eligible for the rebate)
Yes

Visit Mason Commutes to carpool with others to and from Mason campuses. Enter your commute information to be matched with Mason community members traveling around the same time and from a similar point of origin.

Employees may also use the regional rideshare program at Commuter Connections.

Student Carpool Programs

Carpooling is a great way to get to and from campus. Mason encourages students to explore multiple ways to get to campus, such as carpooling to help the university curb its carbon emissions and decrease traffic on campus.

All students living off-campus are eligible for the Student Carpool Program. A carpool consists of two individuals traveling together; some conditions apply. Please see individual carpool programs for details. (On-campus residents and residents of Masonvale are not eligible.)

Carpool Zone Program
Students with general permit passes can park in designated areas of Lot A and Rappahannock Parking Deck Monday – Friday between 7:00 am – 11:00 am as long as they have two people in their car with a general lot permit.

Student Carpool Formal Program
Students with a parking deck or reserved Lot I or reserved Lot J permit can receive between a 20% – 40% rebate on the parking permit for carpooling based upon how many people are in the carpool.

  • 20% – 2 people in the carpool
  • 30% – 3 people in the carpool
  • 40% – 4 people in the carpool

Visit Mason Commutes to carpool with others to and from Mason campuses. Enter your commute information and be matched with the Mason community members traveling around the same time and from a similar point of origin.

Employee Vanpool Program

Team up, Save Time and Money: Join a Van Pool

For an overview of the I-66 project and vanpooling, watch the recording of a recent vanpool interest meeting held virtually at Mason on December 8, 2021.

  • A vanpool consists of a minimum of 4 people to a maximum of 15 who travel together to and from work.
  • Federal rules stipulate that a vanpool must use a minimum vehicle size of seven passengers and 80% of the mileage must be used to transport employees to and from work in trips where at least 50% of the seats (not including the driver) are occupied. This is why the minimum number for a vanpool is 4 in a 7-passenger vehicle.
  • You can use any vanpool provider in the area. For a list of vanpool providers, sign up with Vanpool Alliance.
  • Visit Mason Commutes to carpool with others to and from Mason campuses. Enter your commute information and be matched with the Mason community members traveling around the same time and from a similar point of origin. (Employees may use the regional rideshare program at Commuter Connections.)
  • Once you have your vehicle, riders, and a meeting location, e.g. a Park and Ride Lot, then you will:
    • Select a Vanpool Coordinator
    • Split up the driving and other vehicle responsibilities

The Vanpool Coordinator acts as the vanpool team captain

  • Recruits riders
  • Is the point of contact (and responsibility) for the Vanpool provider
  • Submits any reports required by the Vanpool provider
  • Acts as a liaison to Mason with respect to their vanpool
  • Reduce the amount of time you’re driving
  • Use HOV lanes for free
  • Split any tolls
  • Less wear and tear on your car
  • Potential reduction in your personal auto insurance costs
  • Subsidies
  • Reduce the cost of your commute – in some cases to zero
  • Reduce CO2 emissions

How much does it cost to own and operate a car?

To receive the Mason subsidy of up to $300/month

  • You must be a full-time faculty or staff member
  • Obtain a WMATA SmarTrip card and register it with WMATA. Visit smartrip.com for details
  • Visit Mason’s Commuter Choice page to:
    • Complete the Commuter Choice Enrollment form (one time)
    • Complete your Monthly Benefit Request (Due the 10th of each month or the Thursday before if the 10th falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday
  • Use the WMATA SmarTrip website to allocate your subsidy from your SmartTrip card to your vanpool provider
    • The allocation process has to be done initially when you join a vanpool and then only if your monthly requested amount changes
  • Vanpools do not need to pay to park at Mason; the Vanpool Coordinator (or their designee) picks up an annual permit from Parking and Transportation to be used by the vanpool
  • Vanpool participants can also:

Commuter Choice Program for Full-Time Employees
(Faculty and Classified Staff)

An Executive Order gives full-time state employees in Northern Virginia up to $315 per month to commute by public transit or vanpool. This is a tax-free benefit paid by the University. Please remember that you should only request the amount you need for your qualified commute up to the IRS maximum. If you are new to the program, check out the information below and get started by submitting an Enrollment Form.

In order to participate in the Commuter Choice Program, you must first submit the enrollment form to the program. Each month, you will submit a Monthly Benefits Request form by the deadline in order to receive benefits. You must travel by public transportation or vanpool (other than driving alone) on average 8 times per month to be eligible for the Commuter Choice Program. The minimum can be met flexibly, it does not have to be twice per week but an average of 8 times per month. The eight round trips can also be broken into commuting legs (16 legs of commuting from home to work or work to home) as long as it results in a total of 8 round trips on average per month.

Please submit the Monthy Benefit Request Form by the 10th of each month to receive your benefit for the next month. If the 10th falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, please submit your request by the preceding Thursday.

  1. Purchase your SmarTrip Card.
  2. Register your card and create your online account.
  3. Tap your Smartrip Card at any turnstile between the 16th and end of the month or the fare cards and passes machines, and then hit the “Cancel” button to make sure the latest software version is downloaded onto your card.
  4. Complete the Commuter Choice Enrollment Form. Forms must be filled in completely for us to process your benefit.
  5. Every month, submit the Monthly Benefit Request Form by the 10th of the month before the month you want to receive the benefit. For example, if you wish to use it for September, the form is due on August 10. However, if the 10th falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, the form is due the Thursday before. Your responsibility is to submit your form on time, so we have enough time to enter your benefit.
  6. If you miss submitting your form by the deadline more than one time per year, we will not provide your benefit for that month.
  7. By the fifth of each month, please enter your previous month’s commuter choice travel into the commute calendar at Mason Commutes. After logging into Mason Commutes, you can find the commute calendar on the left-hand menu. Simply drag and drop your mode of commute onto the calendar.
  8. If you are in a vanpool, please watch the SmartBenefits Transit Allocation Training.
  • Your Smartrip Card must be registered before you can receive the Commuter Choice Benefit (Smart Benefits). While creating an online account is not required, it is recommended so you can monitor the funds in your account. Your account will have three “purses”, a Store Value Purse (Personal Purse) where you would add money for your personal use, a Parking Purse (Mason does not provide a parking benefit, so this will not have funds put in it), and a Transit Purse. The Commuter Choice benefit amount (up to $300/month) will be put in the Transit Purse and be available on the first of every month.
  • The funds are NOT downloaded onto your Smartrip Card. With the Autoload System, your funds remain in your account. Your Smartrip Card acts like a debit card and the cost of the trip is deducted from your Transit Purse in your account. When the Transit Purse funds are depleted, funds will automatically be taken from your Personal Purse, if you have any. If no funds are available, you will have to add funds to your Personal Purse at a farecard machine before your card will work at the turnstile.
  • To check the balance in your account, access your online account. Or, to view the amount in your Transit Purse use any faregate or farebox. If a portion of your transit fare comes from your personal stored value purse because of insufficient funds in your transit purse, the amount displayed when commuting will be the balance from your personal stored value purse.
  • Funds in your Transit Purse cannot be moved to your Personal Purse and vice versa.
  • Any unused funds in the Transit Purse at the end of the month will be removed and returned to the University’s SmartBenefits Account.
  • For vanpool riders, set up your card with the online account for your vanpool provider to receive your benefit: Create Smartrip Account.
  • For MARC/VRE users, please visit Commuter Direct to make arrangements for them to process your ticket requests.
  • Vanpool, MARC Train, and VRE train users will have to allocate their funds from their SmarTrip cards to the vanpool provider or Commuter Direct. Please watch the SmartBenefits Transit Allocation Training.
  • All Commuter Choice participants that do not own a parking permit already are eligible to receive two complimentary daily parking passes* per month.
  • Daily complimentary permits are only valid for the month indicated in the “Valid Month” box on the permit and the permits do not roll over.
    • For maximum benefit, request the permits early in any given month in which you will be using them.
    • Complimentary daily passes cannot be given to another person for use.
  • Any vehicle with a permit used in a month other than the one indicated in the “Valid Month” box will receive a citation. There will be no exceptions to this rule.
  • If you have a parking permit, you will be issued two all-day garage validations per month instead.

If you would like to receive your daily complimentary permits, please check the relevant box on the Monthly Benefit Request Form. Please be sure to indicate whether you want the permits sent via interoffice mail or you will pick them up at Nottoway Annex.

Additionally:

  • If you have a parking permit, you have the option of buying up to 2 half-priced packs of 5 deck validations.
  • If you do not have a parking permit, you have the option of buying up to 2 half-priced packs of 5 daily passes per semester or 2 half-priced packs of 5 deck validations. You may also choose one pack of each.

* Some Mason transportation programs include complimentary parking passes as an incentive. Virtual permits will not immediately impact these programs as we will continue to issue complimentary hangtags. This will be phased out over time, and we will eventually be issuing virtual permits/validations as the incentive. Please continue to check this space for updates.

SmarTrip

SmarTrip is convenient to pay transit fares using a rechargeable plastic fare card. SmarTrip is accepted on Metrorail, Metrobus, local bus systems, and some commuter buses. The Commuter Choice benefit amount (up to $350/month) will be available on the first of every month on your SmarTrip card.

Note: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority operates the SmartBenefits Program and software. We will make every effort to answer your questions. Please check your SmartBenefits Account and resolve your problem and questions. If there is a problem with your Smartrip Card or online account, we will notify our WMATA Account Representative for action.

Lost or Damaged Cards

For lost or damaged SmarTrip cards, use the WMATA self-service tool from your SmarTrip Card summary page. View the following document for details on how to use WMATA self-service(PDF) to replace a lost or damaged SmarTrip card. Please review your options carefully before making a selection.

Parking and Transportation are reviewing additional WMATA self-service functions for future use by Mason’s Commuter Choice community.

George Mason University has partnered with Enterprise Rent-a-car to provide short-term rental cars for university business. Prior to submitting a request, please review the information below regarding the official travel advisory.

It is the responsibility of each driver to comply with all Commonwealth/University and Enterprise policies and procedures for travel. ALL travel requires advance authorization.

All drivers who operate any rented vehicle must comply with University Policy 1411, Vehicle Use.

Trip Expenditure Approval

“Trip” approval for Motor Pool vehicle rental can be obtained from any person within your organization with signature authority for the budget code given or an authorized designee. Organizations using Motor Pool for the first time need to obtain the Department Chair’s or Director’s signature on the Motor Pool Vehicle Rental Form to set up an account with Motor Pool.

Required Training for the Operation of 11 /12 passenger Vans

To be authorized to operate an 11 or 12-passenger van, every driver must successfully complete the Van Driver Familiarization Class offered by the campus police along with the Driver Awareness Training through the Office of Risk Management. Class sizes are limited to 10, and scheduled class dates for each month are posted on the University Police Department and Risk Management websites.

Restrictions

  • No Driver shall drive for more than two hours without a break of at least 15 minutes
  • Any trip that is longer than 300 miles, or four hours, must have at least two qualified drivers assigned per vehicle
  • 15 passenger vans cannot be seated to full capacity. A maximum of 12 passengers can be sitting in a 15-passenger van.

Who Can Drive?

All Operators: Drivers, including infrequent drivers, must meet these minimum qualifications:

  1. The Agreement with Enterprise allows University employees that are 18 years of age or older on official University business to rent and drive a vehicle. Enterprise will not charge any additional fees based on the age of a driver. This applies to rentals from Enterprise rental locations in the Commonwealth of Virginia only.
  2. Rentals to Eligible Renters aged 18-20 in all other locations will be subject to an additional youthful driver charge, which may vary by rental location.
    • Students: must be at least 20 years of age and have possessed a valid driver’s license for a minimum of two years
    • Employees (including student wage employees): must be at least 18 years of age and have possessed a driver’s license for a minimum of two years
    • To be eligible to drive an 11 or 12 passenger maxi van, you must be at least 20 years of age and pass the Van Driver Familiarization Class. Outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Enterprise’s age requirement to drive a 12-15 passenger van is 25.
  3. Complete a University Driver Safety Awareness Training and a refresher training every two years through the Office of Risk Management. New hires must complete training within 60 days of being hired.

Who Can Ride?

Individuals not employed by the Commonwealth or University may accompany Commonwealth/University employees operating the vehicle when they have an interest in the purpose of the trip and their presence is directly related to the official Commonwealth/University business.

Friends or relatives of Commonwealth/University employees are not allowed to ride in the vehicle unless directly related to the official Commonwealth/University business.

Hitchhikers and pets are not allowed in the vehicles.

Rental Process Options

  • Vehicle Rental via Motor Pool: State contract Enterprise rates will be applied for any trips processed through the motor pool. The motor pool will make payment to Enterprise on your behalf and debit your department/organization through the University charge-back process. The motor pool will also provide you with a University fuel card for use with your Enterprise rental during official travel.
  • Vehicle Rental via Enterprise: You may also schedule and rent a vehicle on the State contract directly with Enterprise without assistance from Motor Pool. If you choose this option, you will be asked to present payment (option of paying with a University Travel Card or personal funds for reimbursement) when picking up the vehicle. Please note: a University fuel card will not be issued.

Required Notice for Passenger Van Requests

Twelve and 15-passenger vehicles are limited in quantity and may take time to secure for rental. Because of this, requests for passenger vans must be submitted at least 14 days before the desired date of departure.

Fuel

A University Fuel card will be furnished to purchase fuel during travel. When refueling, select regular-grade fuel ONLY. Receipts for fuel purchases must be retained by the driver and turned over to the “renter’s” department budget staff for reconciliation. Vehicles must be returned with the fuel level at the same amount as when you started.

*Fuel cards must be returned by the next business day after the trip return date during office hours. The Motor Pool office is located in the Nottoway Annex in Parking Lot C.

Cancellations

Requests for vehicles can be canceled by sending an email to masonmp@gmu.edu. Twelve-passenger van rentals require a 48-hour cancellation notice or a $50 fee may be charged. Cancellation fee waived for other vehicles.

Pick-up & Return

When picking up a rental, drivers must provide the Enterprise branch with the confirmation number and valid driver’s license. Driver must complete paperwork, note any vehicle damage, and check the fuel.

Rental vehicles can be picked up via one of three methods:

  1. University customer arrives at Enterprise location for vehicle pickup
  2. Enterprise will come and pick up the University customer from their location and drive them to the Enterprise rental location
  3. Enterprise will drop off and deliver rented vehicles at the University’s requested locations.
    There are no additional fees for any of the vehicle pickup methods listed above

*Enterprise must be informed 48 hours in advance of pickup for option 2 or 3

No additional fees are associated with early drop-off. (If a vehicle is returned before the originally planned return date, the University will not be charged for the unused reservation days).

It is the responsibility of each driver to comply with all applicable Motor Vehicle Laws. Drivers of vehicles should practice defensive driving by observing the actions of other drivers and controlling the vehicle in a manner so as to avoid accidents.

Prohibited Items & Actions

Under no circumstances may a driver operate a vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating beverages, drugs, or other substances. Smoking and the use of tobacco, including e-cigarettes and vaporizer products, are prohibited in any vehicle. The use of cell phones, blackberries, smartphones, and other handheld electrical devices may not be used while operating a vehicle. Drivers and passengers are not permitted to eat, drink or smoke while in a vehicle.

Violations, Citations, and Fines

All violations and fines, including parking citations, are the responsibility of the driver and must be paid* by the “due date”. Failure to pay fines associated with citations and violations may result in the suspension of the use of Motor Pool services.

*Commonwealth/University funds may not be used to pay fines associated with violations and citations.

Accidents

In case of an accident with an Enterprise vehicle, the customer will need to contact Enterprise and Mason’s Department of Risk Management. Risk Management will need a copy of the rental agreement, a damage report, and a police report.  For more information, please visit Risk Management’s Reporting State & Rental Vehicle Accidents.

Roadside assistance is available 24/7 for all renters.  There is no cost for vehicle breakdowns that are not the fault of the driver.  Other roadside assistance services (e.g. locked keys, lost keys, flat tires, etc.), are fee-based.

Submit A Motor Pool Request

Sending your request in advance ensures the availability of vehicles to match your activity. Users can log in two ways via Trip Direct or My School Building.

First-Time User

If you have never rented vehicles before, please complete a Motor Pool Vehicle Rental Form (PDF) and submit it to the motor pool office:

  1. By campus mail (mail stop 1J6)
  2. In-person (Nottoway Annex)
  3. Via email masonmp@gmu.edu

Instructions are available for Requestors (PDF) and Approvers (PDF) on completing a request through the Online Request system.

Airport Transportation 

There are three major airports located in the Washington, D.C. Metro area. Therefore there are different various transportation options for getting to and from Mason’s Campuses using airport transportation.

Below you will find information about each airport and advice on alternative transportation options from the different airports in the Washington, D.C. region.

Self-Driving/Taxi Cab:

Driving Distance from Mason Fairfax Campus to BWI: approximately 54.9 miles

Public Transportation:

  • Take either the Mason to Metro Shuttle (Sandy Creek and Global Center) or the CUE Bus to the Vienna-GMU Metro Station.
  • Hop on the Orange Line Metro (the only option at the station).
  • Get off at New Carrollton and take the MARC train to the airport.

Self-Driving/Taxi Cab:

Driving Distance from Mason Fairfax Campus to DCA: approximately 20.6 miles

Public Transportation:

  • Take either the Mason to Metro Shuttle (Sandy Creek and Global Center).  or the CUE Bus to the Vienna-GMU Metro Station.
  • Hop on the Orange Line Metro (the only option at the station).
  • Get off at the Rosslyn Station.
  • Hop onto the Blue Line Metro headed toward Franconia-Springfield.
  • Get off the train at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport station.

Self-Driving/Taxi Cab:

Driving Distance from Mason Fairfax Campus to IAD: approximately 18.8 miles

Public Transportation:

  • Take either the Mason to Metro Shuttle (Sandy Creek and Global Center) or the CUE Bus to the Vienna-GMU Metro Station.
  • Hop on the Orange Line Metro (the only option at the station).
  • Get off at East Falls Church; connect to the Silver Line.
  • Hop onto the Silver Line Metro headed toward Ashburn.
  • Get off the train at the Washington Dulles International Airport station.

Employee Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) Program

The GRH, Operated by Commuter Connections, is designed for employees who rideshare (carpool/vanpool), use mass transit (bus, train), bicycle, or walk to work at least two times a week. It is absolutely free to sign-up for and free to use. Once you register you can use the GRH service up to six times a year. Your year will begin once you register for the program. If a qualifying emergency arises (such as the sudden illness of a family member, school closing, etc.) on a day that you use an alternative commute mode to get to work, call Commuter Connections at 1-800-745-RIDE and select option #2. Commuter Connections will arrange transportation for you (e.g. taxi, car rental, transit) to take you home. Visit GRH Participation Guidelines page for eligibility requirements.

Motorized Utility Vehicle Program

Policy 1131 provides guidance on Mason’s Motorized Vehicle Program (e.g. motorized utility vehicles (MUV) including golf carts, Cushman vans, Bobcat utility carts, gators, ATVs, etc.). Please refer to the policy and procedures for information on the purchase and use of MUVs.

Application for Purchase/Registration of a Motorized Utility Vehicle (MUV) PDF

  • Golf Cart Use Training: The Office of Risk Management has training available for anyone who operates a golf cart on campus. View the following Risk Management webpage to see the golf cart training schedule and registration.
  • If your department is interested in purchasing a Motorized Utility Vehicle (MUV), email transpo@gmu.edu.

Zipcar

Mason students, faculty and staff, and alumni with valid driver’s licenses can access Zipcar stations on campus for an errand run or a long trip. Zipcars are located in the visitor parking section on the first floor of Rappahannock Parking Deck and Lot R.

How It Works

  1. Apply online with a valid driver’s license.
  2. Book a round trip car by the hour or day. Use the app to unlock and lock during the trip.
  3. Return the car to the exact pickup location.

Transportation for Mobility-Impaired Patriots

The Patriot Lift Program provides limited transportation service to those students, faculty, and staff requiring long- or short-term assistance moving around within the parameter of the Fairfax Campus on a one-time or recurring basis. All applicants must receive prior approval from relevant offices on campus. See below for the new applicant registration process. The program is a partnership between Parking & Transportation, Office of Disability Services, Student Health Services, and the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

ADA Parking Decal: Students, faculty, and staff with ADA decals do not need to seek approval but must submit a Patriot Lift Form (PDF). See the registration process below.

Visitor: Due to the impact of COVID-19, Patriot Lift may not be used by visitors until further notice.

Note: There is no pick-up at the Field House, West Campus, or Masonvale. The Parking and Transportation Department will house and operate the program.

Monday – Friday
8:30 am – 5:00 pm
First pick-up: 8:45 am
Last pick-up: 4:45 pm

Service hours are subject to change. No service during holidays breaks and when administrative offices are closed. The service may be suspended during inclement weather or other conditions.

Note: Patriot Lift is staffed by students. Services are only available when school is in session. Transport services are not provided for off-campus locations.

All requests from registered participants must be made at least 24 hours in advance of need. To make a request, please email transpo@gmu.edu or call (703) 993-2828 with the following information:

  • Full Name, G#, email address, telephone number, dormitory
  • Date, time, and location of needed service

How to Register for Patriot Lift

A student seeking Patriot Lift services should submit documentation showing their need for Patriot Lift (i.e., doctor’s notes) and complete the Patriot Lift Form (PDF), including a list of the proposed service schedules. Both documents can be submitted in person or via mail to one of the following offices:

Student Health Services

Via Mail:
George Mason University
Attn: Student Health Services
4400 University Drive, MSN: 2D3
Fairfax, VA 22030

In Person:
Student Union Building 1, Suite 2300
Phone: (703) 993-2831

Office of Disability Services

Via Mail:
George Mason University
Attn: Office of Disability Services
4400 University Drive, MSN 5C9
Fairfax, VA 22030

In Person:
Office of Disability Services
Student Union Building 1, Suite 2500
Phone: (703) 993-2474

Students requesting service for Title IX-related matters may also contact the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Faculty and staff should submit doctor’s notes and the Patriot Lift Form (PDF) in person to the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on the Fairfax Campus.

373 Aquia Building
Phone: (703) 993-8730

For applicants who have an ADA decal issued by DMV for temporary or permanent use, applicants should submit the Patriot Lift Form (PDF) to:

Transportation Office
Nottoway Annex, Mail Stop 1J6
transpo@gmu.edu

Complete An Orientation Session

The submitted documentation will be reviewed within five business days to determine eligibility for Patriot Lift services using the University’s criteria. The applicant will be contacted via email regarding the outcome of the review. A new schedule form needs to be submitted every semester, including the summer.

If applicants are eligible for Patriot Lift services, they will be directed in the email to schedule a phone call or in-person orientation session with a Transportation Office staff member.

  • The purpose of the orientation is for the applicant to complete intake forms, to discuss Patriot Lift and other support services appropriate to their needs.
  • The applicant may begin to use Patriot Lift services following established procedures after the orientation is completed.
  • Patriot Lift service cannot begin until after this session.
  • If the applicants are not eligible for Patriot Lift, they will be directed to other University support services.

Note: Transports not previously approved by the Office of Disability Services, Student Health Services, and the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will only be considered when of a critical nature. Please note that in an emergency, contact Mason Police by dialing 911.

Shared E-Scooters

Mason is collaborating with the City of Fairfax on their shared mobility program. If using an e-scooter from one of the participating vendors, be aware of your personal responsibility as outlined in your agreement with the vendor.

Please Note: Use shared e-scooters in the designated area only.

Personal E-Scooters

Register your scooter with Parking and Transportation to receive a free U-lock, safety information, and other giveaways. Student registration is valid for five years, and for faculty/staff, the registration is valid for the duration of their employment. Students, faculty, and staff who live off-campus and do not own a parking permit will receive two daily complimentary parking passes (general lots) per semester upon request when registering their scooters.

Do’s & Don’ts

  • Remember that the safety of the entire community is paramount.  Please share our community spaces with mindfulness and courtesy.
  • Wear a helmet.
  • Ride on roads, in bike lanes, and on the shared-use path (on Campus Drive) only.
  • Be predictable. Use hand signals to indicate, left, right, and stop.
  • Be sober, alert, and not under the influence of anything that can impair your driving.
  • Have all of the vehicle wheels touching the ground at all times.
  • Keep your speed to a maximum of 15 MPH and adjust it down if needed for traffic, inclement weather, or anytime safety is an issue.
  • ALWAYS give pedestrians the right of way and yield to them in crosswalks.
  • Obey all traffic laws as your scooter, bike, or skateboard are moving vehicles. This includes, but is not limited to, stopping at stops signs and obeying one-way street signs.
  • Use all the safety equipment that comes with your vehicle and wear reflective clothing. Being seen is key to safety.
  • When using between sunset and sunrise, make sure your scooter or bike is equipped with a headlight on the front emitting a white light visible from at least 500 feet and a red reflector on the back visible from at least 600 feet.
  • Leave your bike, scooter, or skateboard in the areas designated by Parking & Transportation (e.g. bike rack or scooter corral). Shared mobility e-scooters should be parked in scooter corrals (PDF) (page 2) however there is additional shared scooter parking at bike racks. No matter where you go, on or off campus, never leave a scooter on a sidewalk or anywhere where it can be a tripping hazard or mobility issue for others.
  • Review and understand the Personal Transportation Vehicle Policy.
  • Remember that you use these vehicles at your own risk.
  • Don’t ride your vehicle:
    • Inside buildings or parking garages (Modes of transportation designed for persons with disabilities (e.g., wheelchairs) are exempt).
    • On sidewalks, stairs or in stairwells, on railings or other outdoor architecture (benches, etc.) on athletic fields, or in amphitheater seating.
  • Don’t leave your vehicle where it will block pedestrian pathways or building entrances or have it tethered/locked/left on railings, signs, trees, or where it will impede the work of the University (e.g., landscaping, facilities).
  • Don’t charge any vehicle in residence halls, offices, dining facilities, or any other University sources of electricity UNLESS at approved outdoor outlets.  For a list of approved outdoor outlets and the procedures to use them, please scroll down to the section entitled Where to Charge Personal E-Scooters (and Bikes).
  • Don’t drive under the influence of drugs, liquor, or medication that can impair your driving.
  • Don’t weave in and out of automobile traffic.
  • Don’t be distracted while the vehicle is in motion by:
    • Smoking
    • Wearing headphones
    • Using a cell phone or any other device
  • Don’t exceed the load capacity of the vehicle.

Where to Ride?

On-campus, only ride on roadways outside the Campus Core, in bike lanes, and on the Campus Drive shared use path. The Campus Core is anything inside Patriot Circle. Use of scooters inside Patriot Circle is restricted to those roads as determined by Parking and Transportation that are free of construction or other safety issues and is subject to change. The center of campus is a no park/no ride zone so shared scooters should not be operated there. For a map showing the no park/no ride zones and the places where it is permissible to ride scooters, as well as bikes, skateboards, and to skate, please visit the scooter map (PDF) (page 2).

Off-campus, please follow the City of Fairfax guidelines in their FAQ section.

e-Scootere-BikeSkateboardPedal BikeSkates
SidewalkNoNoNoNoNo
Dismount ZoneNoNoNoNoNo
TrailNoNoNoNoNo
Bike LaneYesYesYesYesYes
RoadwayYesYesYesYesYes
Campus Drive (Shared Use Path)YesYesYesYesYes

Where to Park?

On-campus, park your shared mobility scooter in a designated scooter corral or at a bike rack. See map (PDF) (page 2).

Off-campus, please follow the City of Fairfax guidelines in their FAQ section.

In all places: Never leave a scooter parked in such a way that it could pose a danger or tripping hazard. Be mindful not to impede pedestrian and ADA access. Please remember that we are all sharing space together; ride and park responsibly on campus or off campus.

Where to Charge Personal E-Scooters?

No outdoor outlet can be used for charging unless it is specifically signed for use.

There are nine (9) approved outdoor outlets on the Fairfax Campus where these devices may be charged. Conditions apply:

  • You must register your vehicle with Parking and Transportation to use any of the approved outlets. Visit the Bicycle/Scooter Registration tab for registration details.
  • Outlets are used at your own risk.
  • Stay with your vehicle when charging.
  • Unattended and/or unregistered vehicles will be impounded.

The approved locations for charging are identified with signage, and they are:

Nottoway Annex (Parking Lot C; east end of the building)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commonwealth Hall (east end of the building)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Between Rogers and Whitetop (low wall)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whitetop Loading Area

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whitetop (lamp post adjacent to Lot I)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liberty Hall (north end of the building)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Potomac Heights (West end of the building)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Global Center (Garage under building)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shenandoah Parking Deck (Level 3 near vehicle entrance)

Frequently Asked Questions

The same scooter companies that are operating in the Fairfax City scooter program are operating in Mason’s program.

On-campus, park your scooter in a designated scooter corral or at a bike rack. Map of corral locations (PDF) (page 2).

Off-campus, please follow the City of Fairfax guidelines in their FAQ section.

In all places: Never leave a scooter parked in such a way that it could pose a danger or tripping hazard. Be mindful not to impede pedestrian and ADA access. Please remember that we are all sharing space together; ride and park responsibly on-campus or off-campus.

Scooter operators are operating a vehicle and should observe all traffic laws.

Share the Campus Together

Whether you walk, bike, or scoot, we're all part of the Mason Community! Please be mindful and share the road for all types of riders. See below for tips and resources for keeping our campus safe and inclusive.