Hi all — I just moved near Flatbush/Church and keep seeing unmarked vans with signs in the windshield and people waving them down. Are those the dollar vans I’ve heard about? Do I just wave like a cab, or do they have actual stops? I don’t want to look like a total transplant standing on the curb. Also, is it cash only? I’ve been using OMNY for everything and I do not carry cash. Thanks!

Welcome to the neighborhood. Yes, those are usually commuter vans — people still say dollar vans, but the fare isn’t literally a dollar and isn’t regulated like the MTA. They run along a few fixed corridors, and Flatbush is one of the main ones. You don’t flag them like a yellow cab from any old spot, but they aren’t as rigid as a bus stop either. The practical move is to stand near a major intersection or subway station where the van can pull over without blocking a crosswalk, make eye contact, and raise your hand slightly. The driver will often tap the horn or swing toward the curb. Ask the destination through the window before stepping in, because a van marked “Utica” won’t help you if you’re going the other way.

Payment is almost always cash, small bills or exact change. Some operators have a cash box and may make change, but don’t count on it. They don’t take OMNY or MetroCards. I’ve seen a few with card readers lately, but that’s still the exception, not the rule. Board quickly and be ready to tell the driver where you want to get off, because there are no recorded announcements and no pull cord. The main caveat: they’re privately run and not all of them are licensed, so quality, insurance, and driving style vary a lot. They’re great for a short hop when the B41 is stuck or you need a quick ride along the corridor, but I wouldn’t build a whole trip around one if you have a hard deadline.

Yep, pretty much that. They’ll stop at bus stops, and sometimes they’ll scoop you mid-block if there’s space and no NYPD right there. Don’t stand behind a parked car or you’ll get left. Cash is king, small bills. Some vans got a card thing taped to the dash, but if you rely on that you’re gonna be stranded one day. They drive like they’re late for court, so grab a pole and don’t play around with your phone. If you’re moving along Flatbush or Utica, it makes sense. If you’re heading east-west off the main road, take the bus and relax.

Thanks both! I tried it yesterday from Church Ave up toward Grand Army and it was way faster than the bus. I had exact change ready because of this thread, and the driver had a little white box for bills. He did give me a look when I asked about OMNY, so that’s noted. EastHarlem_E, you’re right about holding on — I almost went flying at the light. Do these vans run late at night too, or would you just avoid them after a certain hour?