How easy is it to get a Railcard?


How easy is it to get a Railcard? Most Railcards can be purchased online with the option to download as a digital Railcard to your smartphone or device with our Railcard App. Some 1-year Railcards can also be purchased at any National Rail staffed ticket office.


Are railcards only digital now?

Most Railcards can be purchased online with the option to download as a digital Railcard to your smartphone or device with our Railcard App. Some 1-year Railcards can also be purchased at any National Rail staffed ticket office.


Can anyone buy a Railcard in the UK?

Yes. You can buy a 1-year 16-25 Railcard over the counter at all staffed station ticket offices. You will be required to provide your passport or UK driving licence or birth certificate or EEA National Identity card as proof of your date of birth and a passport-style photo.


Does a Railcard work as ID?

Local elections 2023: Government explains why 16-25 Railcard won't count as voter photo ID. Young person's rail cards and Oyster cards are not acceptable as voter ID, but 60+ Oyster cards and Older Person's bus passes are being accepted.


How quick is it to get a Railcard?

Please allow up to 5 working days for your Railcard application to be reviewed and approved. You cannot travel on discounted tickets until you have received your Railcard.


Is Railcard off-peak only?

This depends on the type of railcard some railcards are only valid on Off-peak fares such as the 26-30 railcard, others are available to use all day such as the Senior railcard. You can view all the Railcards available here.


How to get a Railcard after 30?

If you are aged 26-30 years old and still in full-time education, you can choose whether to buy a 26-30 Railcard, or buy a 16-25 Railcard as a mature student. Mature students who are over the age of 30, can only choose the 16-25 Railcard option and apply as a mature student.


Is it cheaper to use a Railcard?

About National Railcards We offer 9 main National Railcards, which give you savings of 1/3 off train fares. Most are available to buy online or at stations. You must carry your Railcard with you on your journey to qualify for the discount.


Do they check for Railcard?

Yes. You must show your valid 16-25 Railcard (digital or plastic) when you buy your ticket and travel on the train. If you bought your Railcard at a station, both the paper printed Railcard and the photocard must be presented.


What proof do you need for a Railcard?

No. Just your name, address and basic information is required.


Can I get on a train without a Railcard?

If you forget your Railcard you will either be required to buy a new ticket or you may on certain services be liable for a Penalty Fare.


How do I get a physical Railcard?

You can also apply for your Railcard by visiting any staffed station ticket office and get your Railcard on the same day! Just be sure to allow yourself plenty of time between purchasing your Railcard and when you need to depart for your journey.


Do Trainline railcards only work on Trainline?

Yes. Although your Railcard will live in your Trainline App, it can still be used with tickets bought elsewhere.


Can you go anywhere with a Railcard?

A: YES! It is valid yo travel throughout Great Britain so you can use the Railcard to buy tickets anywhere across the National Rail network.


What are the benefits of a Railcard?

Railcards allow you to save up to 33% off most rail fares, including discounts on Advance Purchase tickets. There are eight different railcards available. There are also a number of Regional Railcards - for more information please see the below links; 16-25 Railcard (previously Young persons Railcard)


How can I travel without a Railcard?

If you are travelling by train on a ticket with a Railcard discount, you must travel with your valid Railcard. If you forget your Railcard you will either be required to buy a new ticket or you may on certain services be liable for a Penalty Fare.


Can I buy a Railcard on the day?

You can buy a Family & Friends Railcard at any National Rail staffed station ticket office or National Rail-licensed Travel Agent. You can do it on the day you are travelling, just ensure the ticket office is open.