Quick answers about how CARPOOL operates and who can ride.
Can CARPOOL members take CARPOOL?
Absolutely. Members are encouraged to use the service whenever they need a safe ride. Using CARPOOL shows trust in the organization—no questions asked.
Is CARPOOL anti-alcohol?
No. It's your choice whether to drink—we just ask that it's done responsibly and never with driving. CARPOOL is nonjudgmental and partners with campus education groups to promote safety. We also take sober riders home; our numbers are not just intoxicated riders.
Does CARPOOL frown on underage drinking?
We recognize the law (21+), but we're not law enforcement. Our role is ensuring people get home safely, regardless of the reason they need a ride.
What is your favorite story from a ride?
Rides are confidential—"what happens in CARPOOL stays in CARPOOL." We don't share who rode, what happened during rides, or what was seen at operations. This protects patron comfort and safety.
Why do I have to give my Resident Advisor's name for rides to campus?
It's a Texas A&M Residence Life policy to verify you live on campus and keep residents safe. We do not inform your RA or anyone else.
Do I have to be a student to take CARPOOL?
Not at all. We'll take anyone home within Bryan/College Station city limits—just call before 3:00 am.
Do I have to be drunk?
No. We want everyone to get home safely, whatever the reason for needing a ride.
What if I need a ride from Northgate?
Call our phone lines as usual. At times we also run a Northgate Station behind the Dixie Chicken by the Spirit Statue. Look for members in lime-green shirts to sign up there. You must still sign up before 3:00 am.
It's after 3:00 am and my ride hasn't arrived. Did I get skipped?
We stop accepting new calls at 3:00 am, but we continue operating until everyone who signed up gets home. Phone lines are closed after 3:00, so please wait for your driver's callback.
Can I schedule a ride in advance?
No. We operate first-come, first-served and begin taking calls at 10:00 pm. You'll get a callback when a team is on the way.
Membership Related Questions
How volunteering works, requirements, and perks.
Do you drive your own cars?
No. We partner with Enterprise and rent a fleet each weekend, so members don't use personal vehicles and riders get clean, well-maintained cars.
What if I don't have a car?
No problem. You won't drive your own car for operations. If you need a lift to our base (The Lime) for your shift, members are happy to help—just ask.
What if I don't like driving?
Plenty of roles aren't driving: navigating, answering phones, and staffing Northgate Station. We won't assign a role you're uncomfortable with.
Do you work every weekend?
Only if you want to. Sign up for nights that work for you. New members: 4 nights/semester. Returning members: 5 nights/semester. However often you serve—you're saving lives.
Do members get paid?
No salary, but lots of perks: free food during shifts (thanks to sponsors), service hours, training, leadership development, and a tight community. The biggest reward is knowing you helped keep people safe.
Do I pay for gas?
No. Gas is covered by CARPOOL's budget.
Can I still go out if I'm a member?
Yes—on nights you're not scheduled. Members must not consume alcohol after 6:00 am on a day they've signed up to work.
If someone calls mid-week, do I have to pick them up?
No. We only run Friday & Saturday from 10:00 pm–3:00 am. Calls aren't answered outside operating hours.
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