All you need to know about the Disabled Persons Railcard
Over the past few years, Disabled Persons Railcards have become increasingly popular, and rightly so. A Disabled Persons Railcard allows people living with disability to travel on some trains at a discounted rate. If you’re eligible, you can get one of these cards and save up to one third on rail fares across the country. Here’s what you need to know about the Disabled Persons Railcard.
What is a Disabled Persons Railcard?
A Disabled Persons Railcard is a discount card that gives you a third off rail fares on Britain’s National Rail network. It’s designed for people with a condition that affects their mobility. The card is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
While there are no restrictions on the number of journeys you can take with your Disabled Persons Railcard, you must present it every time you’re travelling if you’re using it to get a discounted fare.
Cost of a Disabled Persons Railcard
The card costs £20 per year or £54 for three years and can be used by anyone with a disability or long-term health condition. It is valid for one year or three years from the date of purchase. You can also use your railcard to get discounts on hotels and restaurants across the country or abroad, but only if they’re participating in the railcard discount scheme.
Eligibility for a Disabled Persons Railcard
You can only apply for a Disabled Persons Railcard if you meet the following criteria:
- You’re registered blind or partially sighted
If you’re registered blind or partially sighted, you’re eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard. You can apply for one at your local train station with proof of visual impairment. If you have no visual impairment, but someone in your family does, that person can apply for one on your behalf.
- You have epilepsy
If you have epilepsy, you can get a Disabled Persons Railcard to help you travel more easily by train. You’ll need to provide a medical certificate from a doctor or consultant who can confirm that you meet the criteria for epilepsy and are therefore eligible for this card.
- Receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
If you receive DLA and live in England or Wales, you’re also eligible to apply for a Disabled Persons Railcard if you need it to help with your travel needs. You’ll need proof of receiving DLA when applying for this card.
- Receive war pensioners’ mobility supplement (WPMS)
You are automatically eligible for a railcard if you receive the war pensioners’ mobility supplement. The WPMS is paid to people who receive the war disability pension and have difficulty moving around because of their disability.
- Have received attendance allowance (AA)
You may be eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard if you receive the AA, a benefit paid to people with disabilities who need help with everyday tasks.
To learn more about whether you are eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard, visit the Disabled Persons Railcard website.
Where can I buy a Disabled Persons Railcard?
There are two options. You can put in a request online and expect to have the card approved within five days. You’ll need to complete an online application form if you’d prefer to receive a physical card (and we know some people do). You’ll receive your card within 12 working days if your application is approved. If not, they’ll contact you to let you know why not and how to improve your chances next time around.
The other way is to apply by post. Download and complete the application form and post it off with any supporting documents requested on the form, such as proof of disability or proof of residency in England (if applicable). Please remember that you can’t buy your new railcard at a railway station.
What happens if I lose my Disabled Persons Railcard?
If you lose your Disabled Persons Railcard and want to apply for a replacement, you can do so online. Just log in to their website and click on the ‘Using your Railcard > Renew or Replace Railcard’ option. You will then be able to fill out a form and submit it. You can also call 0345 605 0525 to request a replacement. You may only get one replacement in a year.
What payment methods are accepted?
You can buy a Disabled Persons Railcard using a credit or debit card. American Express and Diner’s Club are not accepted.
The Disabled Persons Railcard is designed to make train travel more accessible for disabled travellers. Reducing the cost of rail travel will enable those with disabilities or mobility issues greater access to the freedoms and opportunities that rail travel can provide.
