Amtrak Passengers with Disabilities Discounts

Amtrak offers a 10% rail fare discount to adult passengers with a disability. Additionally, passengers with a disability traveling on Downeaster trains (Boston, MA to Portland, ME) are eligible for a 50% discount. Child passengers with a disability are eligible for the everyday 50% child discount plus an additional 10% off the discounted child's fare.

The discount is available to individuals with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities that impact their mobility or require special accommodations during travel. There is no specific list of qualifying disabilities - Amtrak considers each passenger's needs individually.

Yes, Amtrak offers a 10% discount for persons traveling with a passenger with a disability as a companion. The companion must be capable of providing the necessary assistance to the passenger with a disability. Only one companion discount is allowed per passenger with a disability.

The companion does not need to be a certified caregiver or family member, but they should be prepared to assist the passenger with disability-related needs during the journey. The companion typically sits adjacent to the passenger with a disability when seating arrangements allow.

Documentation requirements vary by route:

• Downeaster, Pennsylvanian and Keystone routes: Must present documentation that shows proof of disability
• All other routes: Documentation may be requested but is not always required

Acceptable documentation includes:

• Medicare card
• State-issued disability ID card or parking placard
• Letter from a licensed healthcare professional
• Veterans Administration disability certification
• Other official documentation of disability

It's recommended to carry documentation when traveling, as conductors may request verification.

Amtrak provides numerous accessibility features including:

• Wheelchair Accessibility: Designated spaces on trains, accessible stations with ramps or lifts
• Boarding Assistance: Priority boarding, Red Cap service for baggage and boarding help
• Onboard Features: Accessible restrooms on most trains, visual and auditory announcements
• Service Animals: Welcome onboard all trains at no additional charge
• Seating: Accessible seating options with additional space
• Communication: TTY access for hearing-impaired passengers
• Station Services: Accessible ticketing, waiting areas, and restrooms at most stations

Over 95% of Amtrak stations are accessible to passengers with mobility disabilities.

Currently, disability discounts typically require booking through Amtrak's reservation line at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245). Our trained agents can:

• Apply the appropriate disability discount to your fare
• Reserve accessible seating or wheelchair spaces
• Arrange for special assistance at stations
• Answer questions about accessibility features
• Note any special requirements for your journey

When calling, be prepared to provide information about any assistance needed during your travel. It's recommended to book at least 24 hours in advance when special assistance is required.

Yes, there are some restrictions to be aware of:

• The discount may not be combinable with other discount programs or promotions
• Only one companion discount is allowed per passenger with a disability
• Documentation requirements vary by route, with stricter requirements on Downeaster, Pennsylvanian and Keystone routes
• The discount applies to rail fare only and not to other charges
• Advance reservation may be required for certain types of assistance
• Wheelchair spaces are limited and subject to availability

Always check with Amtrak reservations for the most current restrictions and requirements when booking your travel.

Amtrak provides various assistance services at stations:

• Red Cap Service: Available at major stations to assist with baggage and boarding
• Wheelchair Assistance: Available at stations with accessible platforms
• Priority Boarding: Passengers with disabilities board before general boarding
• Accessible Facilities: Most stations have accessible restrooms, ticketing counters, and waiting areas
• Visual & Auditory Aids: Announcement systems and signage for passengers with visual or hearing impairments
• Station Personnel: Trained to assist passengers with disabilities

For specific station accessibility information, contact Amtrak or check individual station pages on their website.

It's recommended to request special assistance at least 24 hours before your departure, especially for:

• Wheelchair space reservations
• Station assistance requiring special equipment
• Travel with service animals (though no advance notice is technically required)
• Complex assistance needs at connecting stations
• Group travel with multiple passengers requiring assistance

While Amtrak strives to accommodate all requests, advance notice ensures that station staff can prepare appropriate assistance and equipment. For last-minute travel, assistance is still available but may be subject to equipment and staff availability.