Segways and other ABWCs on Metrorail

Segways and other Automatic Balancing Wheeled Conveyances (ABWCs) are permitted aboard Metrorail. ABWCs are defined as battery-powered, non-collapsible, self-balancing wheeled transportation devices. Permitted ABWCs include but are not limited to the Segway brand.

People with disabilities who use a Segway as a mobility device are exempt from certain policy restrictions. To become a registered Metro ABWC user, you must be an ID card holder in one of Metro’s disability related programs. In addition, a physician must certify that the Segway is used as a mobility device on the AWBC registration form. Click here to download the Metro ABWC registration form.

As a non-mobility device, riders must walk their ABWC inside Metrorail stations. ABWC as either a mobility or non-mobility device cannot be transported on the escalator. All ABWC users must use the elevators to enter or exit stations and the platform level.

ABWCs are allowed inside railcars:

• from Monday through Friday at any time except 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• on the following holidays: Martin Luther King's Birthday observed, President's Day observed, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day observed, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

ABWCs are not allowed in the Metrorail system on Inauguration Day, the Fourth of July, during major marches, or other special events. Unlike bicycles, Segways are not allowed on Metrobuses because they cannot be stabilized on a bus lift and can't be secured safely inside a bus.

See the ABWC policy for additional details.