Veterans Railcard

With a Veterans Railcard you can get 1/3 off selected rail fares.

If you travel frequently along our network map and have served in the forces, a UK Veterans Railcard is the perfect option to save money on your rail tickets. With a Veterans Railcard, you can get 1/3 off selected rail fares. As well as saving 1/3 off your train fares, you can also buy discounted tickets for a named adult and up to 4 accompanying children.

A one-year Veterans railcard costs £35. You can also choose a three-year railcard for £80. This three-year option offers better value by saving you £25 compared to buying three separate annual cards.

You’re eligible for the Veterans railcard if you've served at least one day in HM Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve) or Merchant Mariners. Not sure if this is the railcard for you? We also have the HM Forces railcard for members of the Regular Forces or Volunteer Reserves.

Buy a Veterans Railcard

What are the benefits of a Veterans Railcard?

With a Veterans Railcard, you get:

• A 1/3 discount on rail travel for yourself across Great Britain
• The same 1/3 saving for a named companion when they travel with you
• A 60% discount for up to four accompanying children aged 5 to 15
• Access to discounted travel on most Standard and First Class fares
• The ability to link your card to an Oyster card for 1/3 off off-peak travel in London
• Flexible travel options with no time restrictions on weekends or bank holidays

What are the requirements and restrictions of the Veterans Railcard?

The railcard is available to anyone who has served at least one day in the HM Armed Forces. This includes Regulars and Reserves. UK Merchant Mariners who have seen duty on legally defined military operations are also eligible to apply. For more eligibility information, please click here .

There are a few restrictions that apply to this railcard:

• A minimum fare of £12 applies for journeys made between 04:30 and 10:00 Monday to Friday. This minimum fare restriction does not apply in July and August or on bank holidays.
• You cannot use the discount for season ticket purchases
• You must carry your valid physical or digital railcard at all times during your journey
• Named companions and children must travel with the cardholder to receive the discount.

How do I apply for a Veterans Railcard?

You can apply for your railcard online or by post:

• Digital railcard: This is stored in the railcard app on your phone. It is available to use immediately once your application is approved. Online applications are usually processed within 24 hours, though they can take up to 5 working days during busy periods.
• Physical railcard: This is a plastic card sent to you by post. You should allow up to 10 working days for your card to arrive. Please allow up to 15 working days for your application to be processed and for your physical card to be delivered.

You will need to provide proof of your eligibility, such as a military ID card or your discharge papers, and a passport-style photo.

Once your application is approved, a digital railcard can be downloaded to your phone immediately, while a plastic card will be sent to you in the post.

How do I use a Veterans Railcard?

You can use your railcard to buy discounted tickets online, at a ticket machine or at a staffed station office. When booking online, simply select the Veterans Railcard option from the dropdown menu. Always remember to keep your physical or digital railcard with you when you travel, as you will need to show it to staff alongside your ticket.

Frequently asked questions