Port of Galveston Implements Ground Transportation Manual and Permit Application Process

The Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves recently approved the implementation of the Ground Transportation Manual, a comprehensive document containing rules and guidelines for ground transportation companies operating at the Port of Galveston. The manual aims to ensure high-quality, safe, and convenient ground transportation services for both travelers and shippers.

As the fourth most popular U.S. cruise port and only home port in Texas, the Port of Galveston cruise terminal welcomed more than 1 million cruise passengers in 2019. Statewide, the cruise industry generated $1.6 billion in expenditures and 27,000 jobs in 2019.

To access the latest version of the Ground Transportation Manual, interested parties can click on the following link:

Ground Transportation Manual pdf

The manual provides detailed information on the requirements and regulations for operating ground transportation services at the port.

For inquiries or further information regarding the Ground Transportation Manual and the process to obtain a Ground Transportation permit for operating at the Port of Galveston, individuals can reach out to the Ground Transportation Department. The department can be contacted via email at GroundTransportation@portofgalveston.com or by phone at 409-765-9321.

Applying for a Galveston Cruise Terminal Permit requires specific information to be provided. Applicants must have the following documents and details readily available:

1. Galveston Port Application
2. Commercial insurance (preferably Accord Form 25)
3. Picture of the vehicle with a visible license plate
4. Picture of the EZ tag
5. Credit Card Authorization Form

There are two methods to apply for the permit:

1. Online Application:

Applicants can apply online by visiting the following link: [Online Permit Application]

Ground Transportation Permit Application

2. Email Application:

Alternatively, applicants can send an email with all the required information. The completed application should then be emailed to GroundTransportation@portofgalveston.com.

The Port of Galveston has established a fee schedule for port access and permits. The fees are as follows:

• Decal Fees: $20.00 per vehicle, per year
• RFID Tags Price: $20.00 per vehicle (Operator-owned tags must be approved by the PORT and issued by approved agencies such as TxTag, HCTRA, or NTTA
• Application Fee for Commercial Passenger Vehicle Services: $250.00
• Annual Renewal Fee for Commercial Passenger Vehicle Services: $150.00
• A refundable deposit is required for the application and the amount varies from company to the next.

Additionally, ground transportation companies accessing the Cruise Ship Terminal Complex are subject to access, trip, and parking fees based on the type and seating capacity of the vehicles. The fees vary as follows:

• Charter Bus/Shuttle Buses (40 or more passengers): $65.00 per parking/access
• Commercial Passenger Vehicles, Shuttles, or Limousines (30 to 39 passengers): $45.00 per access/trip
• Commercial Passenger Vehicles, Shuttles, or Limousines (15 to 29 passengers): $35.00 per access/trip
• Commercial Passenger Vehicles, Shuttles, or Limousines (less than 15 passengers): $25.00 per access/trip

Applicants are advised to carefully review the insurance guidelines and ensure that all provided information aligns accurately with their company name.

Upon submission of the application and required documents, processing time is approximately 7 to 14 business days. Approved applicants will receive a vehicle sticker by mail and will be provided with login information for the port payment portal. Through the portal, they can manage their account, view transactions, and make invoice payments.

For any questions, concerns, or complaints, individuals can contact the Parking and Ground Transportation Department at the following details:

Parking and Ground Transportation Department

Email: GroundTransportation@portofgalveston.com
Phone: 409-766-6163
Address: 123 Rosenberg, Suite 1500, Galveston, TX 77550