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Last updated:Today at 11:05
Train companies affected:Chiltern Railways
Last updated:Today at 10:32
Train companies affected:National Rail

Everything You Need to Know About the Disabled Persons Railcard

Don’t miss out!

Get 1/3 off rail travel for you and an adult companion with a Disabled Persons Railcard

What is the Disabled Persons Railcard?

The Disabled Persons Railcard is a discount card that gives you and an adult companion 1/3 off rail travel in Great Britain, for just £20 for 1 year or £54 for 3 years.

Can I get a Disabled Persons Railcard?

People with many kinds of disabilities and medical conditions are eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard. For example, you could qualify if you:

  • receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP)

  • receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Child Disability Payment (CDP)

  • have a visual impairment

  • have a hearing impairment

  • have epilepsy

You can see the full list of eligibility criteria and proof of eligibility required(external link, opens in a new tab).

How long does the Disabled Persons Railcard last?

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

How much does the Disabled Persons Railcard cost?

The Disabled Persons Railcard is £20 for the 1-year option or £54 for the 3-year option.

Can I get a digital version of the Disabled Persons Railcard?

Yes, you can get a digital Railcard and store it in the Railcard app on up to 2 devices.

You will need to have version 2.0.0 or above of the app to use your digital Railcard.

What does the Disabled Persons Railcard look like?

Digital Disabled Persons Railcard


Physical Disabled Persons Railcard


Disabled Persons Railcard

How do I get a Disabled Persons Railcard?

If you are eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard(external link, opens in a new tab) you can obtain your Railcard by following the step-by-step guide below. You will need to fill out a form, either online or by post, and provide proof of your eligibility.

There are 2 ways to apply for your Disabled Persons Railcard

  • Online

  • By post

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

Applying for a Disabled Persons Railcard online

To apply online, make sure you have:

  • Evidence of your eligibility

  • A good quality digital passport-style photo of you ready to upload

  • A debit or credit card

  • Your device with the Railcard App installed if you want to get a digital Railcard

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

How quickly will I get my Disabled Persons 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, please allow a total of 15 days for your application to be reviewed and the Railcard to be delivered by post.

Applying for a Disabled Persons Railcard by post

To apply by post, you need to download and complete the Disabled Persons Railcard application form.

If you require information in another format, like Braille, please contact the Disabled Persons Railcard Office(external link, opens in a new tab).

You can then send:

  • Your completed application form

  • A copy of your evidence of eligibility

  • 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 Disabled Persons 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.

How to use the Disabled Persons Railcard

The Disabled Persons Railcard gets you 1/3 off Standard and First Class Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares across England, Wales and Scotland.

You can also use it for Travelcards (but a minimum fare may apply), Gatwick Express, Stansted Express, Heathrow Express, Caledonian Sleeper and more. Some restrictions do apply. View the full list of eligible fares and restriction details(external link, opens in a new tab).

You must carry your valid Railcard with you when travelling using Railcard discounted tickets.

If you are travelling with a companion who is using Railcard discounted tickets, they must travel with you throughout the journey.

See the full Disabled Persons Railcard terms and conditions(external link, opens in a new tab).

What do I do if I need to book assistance for my journey?

Please note that booking tickets with your Disabled Persons Railcard does not automatically alert the train company that you might need assistance.

If you require additional support when travelling, the Passenger Assist service can help you.

Passenger Assist includes:

  • offering a helping hand to navigate the station

  • help getting on or off the train

  • meeting you from your train and taking you to your next train or the exit

  • arranging a ramp on or off your train

  • assistance relating to a non-visible impairment

  • carrying your bag(s) – up to 3 items of luggage as per the National Rail Conditions of Travel (PDF, 1.1MB)

  • getting an Assistance Dog Under Seat card

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