Abstract: A flexible-route transportation system, primarily utilizing privately-owned vehicles to provide ridesharing transportation for the public, is described. Interactive communications terminals are provided through which drivers of the vehicles may rapidly transmit ride offers via a telecommunications network to a central operations coordinating station, equipped with a general-purpose programmable computer. Rider interactive communications terminals, located at public and private facilities, are also connected by the telecommunications network with the central coordinating station, permitting eligible members of the public to quickly request rides from one location to another. The central coordinating station matches the ride requests with the ride offers, on a trip-by-trip basis, comparing the driver's indicated origin, destination, seating requirements and time with the rider's requested origin, destination, seat availability and time.