Armed Forces Day in the UK is on Saturday 28 June 2025. But veterans can apply for a Veterans Railcard at any time, and use it all year round.

What is the Veterans Railcard?

The Veterans Railcard is a discount card for UK Veterans that gives you 1/3 off most rail travel.

You can also add a named companion to the card so when they travel with you, they get get 1/3 off too. And up to 4 children travelling with you will get a 60% discount as well.

Am I entitled to a Veterans Railcard?

If you are a veteran who has served at least 1 day in His Majesty’s UK Armed Forces, or a UK Merchant Mariner who has seen duty on legally defined military operations, then you are eligible for a Veterans Railcard.

Find out more about eligibility(external link, opens in a new tab).

How long does the Veterans Railcard last?

The Veterans Railcard comes in a 1-year or 3-year option.

How much does the Veterans Railcard cost?

The Veterans Railcard costs £35 for 1 year or £80 for 3 years.

How do I get a Veterans Railcard?

To apply for a Veterans Railcard you will need to fill out a form, either online or by post, and provide proof of your eligibility.

See the full list of eligibility documents(external link, opens in a new tab) and what to do if you need to request replacement documents.(external link, opens in a new tab)

There are 2 ways to get your Veterans Railcard

• Online

• By post

You are not able to apply for your Veterans Railcard in person at a National Rail station.

Applying for a Veterans Railcard online

To apply online, make sure you have:

• Evidence of your eligibility as a veteran

• A good quality digital passport-style photo ready to upload (of yourself and your named companion, if required)

• A debit or credit card

Then fill out your application on the Veterans Railcard website(external link, opens in a new tab).

How quickly will I get my Veterans Railcard if I apply online?

If you’re applying for a digital Railcard online, you will get an email with a download code once your application has been approved (which can take 5 working days). Once you download the Railcard app and add your Railcard, you can start using it straight away.

If you’re applying for a physical Railcard online, your Railcard should be sent out within 1 working day of it being approved (which can take 5 working days), but it’s probably best to allow 10 days for your Railcard to arrive. It’ll be sent out free of charge by First Class post, but if you prefer, you have the option to pay for Special Delivery.

Applying for a Veterans Railcard by post

To apply by post, you need to:

Download and complete the Veterans Railcard application form (PDF, 320kb), then send:

• Your completed application form

• A copy of your evidence of eligibility

• A passport style photo of yourself and your named companion (if required)

• Payment (you can fill out your card details, or send a cheque or postal order)

to: National Railcards, PO box 8626, SWADLINCOTE, DE11 1JA

How quickly will I get my Veterans Railcard if I apply by post?

If you’re applying for a physical Railcard by post, please allow 20 days from the date of posting your application form for your Railcard to be delivered.