Introductory Meeting:
Meet with your fellow carpooler(s) before the first trip to talk about schedules, personal preferences and costs.

Locations:
Select pick-up and drop-off locations that are easily accessible and safe.

Policies:
Set policies on issues such as the following:

• Will there be smoking allowed?
• What radio station should we listen to, if any?
• Will there be eating and drinking allowed in the car?

Driving Schedules:
Decide if you and your carpooling partner(s) will alternate the driving responsibility and if so, what schedule you will use: daily, weekly, monthly?

Sharing Expenses:
Determine what expenses will be included, how they will be divided and when they will be paid. Oftentimes, with a large group of carpoolers the driver gets a reduced rate or rides free. Use the cost calculator to determine what your actual commuting costs are. This includes operating, maintenance, and insurance costs.

Punctuality:
Decide in advance how long the driver will wait if someone is running late.

Cancellation:
Establish the proper procedure for notifying your carpooling partner(s). Then, when you are unable to carpool on a scheduled day you will have a procedure to follow.

Courtesy:
Do not honk for your passengers in the morning or make unscheduled stops for personal errands.

Car Maintenance:
Make sure your car is kept in proper and safe operating condition.

Traffic Laws:
Drive safely, defensively and wear your seat belts.