What Is A Veterans Railcard?
In October 2020, the Ministry of Defence announced a new rail car for veterans.
They stated that from November 2020, ex-forces could now have a railcard where they can then save up to 1/3 off rail travel in the UK.
The scheme is designed to help veterans travel to new employment and education opportunities.
This railcard is available as a physical card or digitally.
That means you can carry it in your wallet or on your mobile device.
Veterans Railcard Eligibility
In order to be eligible, you will need to have served at least one day in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve).
This opens up to roughly 830,000 veterans that use trains on a regular basis.
To get a railcard, you will need to provide proof that you are eligible.
The full list of criteria can be found on the official Veterans Railcard website.
The Cost And Benefits
Currently, the veterans railcard costs the following:
- £30 for 1 year
- £70 for 3 years
The biggest benefit is that you save 1/3 off Standard and First Class Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares across England, Wales and Scotland.
There are exceptions for travelling at certain times of day so please check well in advance.
Another fantastic benefit is that you can also nominate a companion to get 1/3 off when travelling with you and up to 4 children travelling with you get 60% off.
How To Buy A Veterans Railcard
This system is easier than applying for a Veterans ID card.
You can buy the veterans railcard here: Official Site.
You can choose to opt-in for a digital version where you use the railcard app or a physical version.
The physical railcard will take up to 5 days to reach you.
You can also apply for a veterans railcard by post.
Simply fill out the application form and send it to the following address:
National Railcards
PO Box 10776
Ashby-de-la-Zouch
LE65 9FA