Traveling by train offers comfort, scenic views, and convenience—and for seniors, it can also mean significant savings. The Amtrak senior discount is a valuable perk for older adults looking to explore the US affordably. In this Page, we’ll cover how to get Amtrak senior discount, eligibility requirements, and how to apply it when booking.
Overview of Amtrak Senior Discount
The Amtrak senior discount gives travelers aged 65 and older 10% off most rail fares across the U.S. It’s an easy way for seniors to enjoy comfortable, scenic train travel while saving money on tickets.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Discount Amount | 15% off standard adult fares (base fare only) |
| Age Requirement | 65+ years old |
| Booking Requirement | No advance booking required (but recommended for best prices) |
| Promo Code | Not required (discount auto-applies online or mention age when booking) |
| ID Verification | Government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) may be requested at check-in or boarding |
| How to Apply | Book online (amtrak.com), via the app, by phone (1-800-USA-RAIL), or at stations. Select “Senior” as passenger type during booking. No promo code needed. |
| Excluded Routes | Auto Train (no discount on vehicle transport). Some cross-border services (e.g., Amtrak Cascades to Canada). Discount does not apply to upgrades (e.g., Acela First Class, Sleeper cabins). |
| Official Website | https://www.amtrak.com/home.html |
What Is the Amtrak Senior Discount?
Amtrak offers a Senior Discount of 10% off most rail fares for travelers aged 65 and older. Here’s how it works:
| Discount | Eligibility | Savings | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15% Off Base Fare | Passengers aged 65+ | 15% off the adult base fare | Excludes premium services (e.g., Acela First Class, Sleeper accommodations). |
| Available on Most Trains | Valid on Amtrak routes within the US. | Applies to one-way & round-trip tickets. | Not valid on the Auto Train, some cross-border services, or with other discounts. |
| How to Book | Online, via app, phone (1-800-USA-RAIL), or at stations. | Must show ID (e.g., driver’s license) upon request. | Blackout dates may apply during peak travel times. |
What is the Senior Discount Eligibility & Criteria?
The Amtrak senior discount, travelers must be 65 years or older and show a valid government-issued photo ID. For VIA Rail Canada routes, eligibility starts at 60 years. The discount applies to most coach fares but excludes premium services like Acela Express and sleeper accommodations.
| Category | Typical Eligibility & Criteria |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | Usually 60+ or 65+ years old (varies by company/country). |
| Proof of Age | Valid ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, senior citizen card) may be required. |
| Membership | Some discounts require membership in senior organizations (e.g., AARP, AAA). |
| Time Restrictions | Discounts may apply only on specific days/times (e.g., weekdays, early bird specials). |
| Location | Varies by country/state. Some governments provide additional benefits (e.g., tax breaks, transit discounts). |
| Income-Based | Some programs (e.g., utility discounts) require proof of low income. |
Options to Get Amtrak Senior Discount
Getting the Amtrak senior discount is easy and can save eligible travelers 10% on most rail fares. Here’s how to apply it:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must be 65 years or older at the time of travel. – No membership (e.g., AARP) required, but AARP offers additional deals on vacation packages. |
| Discount Amount | 10% off base fare on most Amtrak routes. Excludes Acela First Class, Business Class, and sleeper car accommodations. |
| How to Book | 1. Online: Select “Senior (65+)” when choosing passenger type. 2. Phone: Call 1-800-USA-RAIL and request the senior discount. 3. In-Person: Ask for the discount at any Amtrak station ticket counter. |
| Required Proof | Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, or senior ID) showing age 65+. May be checked at boarding or during the trip. |
| Restrictions | Not valid on Acela First Class, Business Class, or private rooms. Cannot be combined with most other promotions (e.g., AAA, student discounts). Blackout dates may apply during peak travel seasons. |
| Best Ways to Save | Book in advance (discounts are capacity-controlled). Check for senior-exclusive deals (e.g., seasonal promotions). Use Amtrak Guest Rewards for additional points. |
| Alternative Deals | USA Rail Pass: Seniors get 10% off (30-day pass for unlimited travel). Regional Discounts: Some state-run routes (e.g., California, Illinois) offer extra senior savings. |
How to Apply Senior Discount on Amtrak?
To apply the Amtrak senior discount, simply select “Senior” as the passenger type when booking online, by phone, or at a station. The 10% discount will be automatically applied to eligible fares for travelers aged 65 and older.
| Method | Steps to Apply | Required Proof | When Discount Appears |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Visit Amtrak.com Enter trip details Under “Passengers,” select “Senior (65+)” Complete booking | None at booking (ID required during travel) | Immediately at checkout |
| Mobile App | Open Amtrak app Follow same steps as online booking Verify “Senior (65+)” is selected | None at booking | Immediately at checkout |
| Phone | Call 1-800-USA-RAIL Request senior discount Provide passenger details | May require verbal confirmation of age | During phone booking |
| In-Person | Visit station ticket counter Request senior discount Present valid ID | Government-issued ID showing age 65+ | Immediately at purchase |
| Ticket Kiosk | Select “Senior Discount” option Follow prompts Present ID when picking up tickets | ID required for ticket pickup | At ticket issuance |
How to Add Senior Discount to Amtrak Booking?
To add the Amtrak senior discount, simply select “Senior” as the passenger type during booking—online, by phone, or at a station. The 10% discount will be automatically applied to eligible fares for travelers aged 65 and older.
| Booking Method | Steps to Apply Discount | Proof Required | When Discount Appears |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (Amtrak.com) | Select “Senior (65+)” in passenger details during booking. Proceed to checkout – discount applies automatically. | None (ID checked later) | Immediately on payment screen |
| Amtrak Mobile App | Tap “Passengers” and toggle “Senior (65+)” for eligible travelers. Complete booking – discount auto-applies. | None (verify later) | Shows in fare breakdown |
| Phone Booking (1-800-USA-RAIL) | Request senior discount when speaking to agent. Provide passenger name/age. Agent applies discount before payment. | Verbal age confirmation | Adjusted in final quoted price |
| In-Person (Station/Ticket Counter) | Request senior discount at purchase. Show valid ID (65+). Agent applies discount. | Government-issued ID (65+) | Immediately on printed ticket |
| Self-Service Kiosk | Select “Senior Discount” option. Follow prompts and scan ID if prompted. Collect tickets. | ID may be required | Printed on ticket receipt |
Routes Not Eligible for Senior Discount
The Amtrak senior discount does not apply to premium services like Acela Express, First Class, Business Class, and sleeping accommodations. It’s also excluded from certain Thruway connecting services and Saver Fares, so check route details before booking to ensure eligibility.
| Category | Excluded Routes/Services |
|---|---|
| Premium Trains | Acela (all classes) |
| Auto Train (vehicle transport service) | |
| Premium Accommodations | First Class (all routes) |
| Business Class (on routes where offered) | |
| Sleeper Cars (all types: Roomette, Bedroom, etc.) | |
| Special Fares | Saver Fares |
| Weekly/Monthly Passes | |
| Multi-Ride Tickets (e.g., 10-ride passes) | |
| International Travel | Amtrak connections to VIA Rail Canada |
| Blackout Periods | Thanksgiving week |
| Christmas/New Year’s week | |
| Memorial Day/Labor Day weekends | |
| Other Exclusions | Custom tours/rail vacations |
| Last-minute fares (within 3 days of travel) |
Smart Tips to Maximize Your Amtrak Senior Discount
Want to get the most out of your Amtrak senior savings? Here are expert-backed strategies to help you travel smarter and cheaper:
Book Early for Best Fares
- Reserve tickets 7–21 days in advance to unlock early bird discounts.
- Early booking ensures better seat selection and lower prices.
Travel Midweek or Off-Peak
- Fares are often cheaper on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Avoid holidays and weekends to save more.
Use Special Route Discounts
- Seniors can get 15% off on select California routes like Pacific Surfliner and Capitol Corridor.
- The Downeaster line offers up to 50% off for seniors on certain segments.
Apply the Discount Correctly
- Select “Senior” as the passenger type when booking online, by phone, or at a station.
- Double-check that the discount is applied before checkout.
Check Here: Amtrak student discount
Conclusion
he Amtrak senior discount is a simple yet impactful way for older adults to enjoy affordable, comfortable, and scenic train travel across the US. With 10% off most fares, easy booking options, and special savings on select routes, seniors aged 65+ can unlock new adventures without overspending. Whether you’re visiting loved ones or exploring bucket-list destinations, this discount helps make every journey more accessible. Don’t miss the opportunity to ride with ease—just select “Senior” at checkout and start saving today.
FAQs on Amtrak Senior Discount
The Amtrak senior discount offers 10% off most rail fares for passengers aged 65 and older. For VIA Rail Canada routes, travelers aged 60+ are eligible.
Most routes get 10% off the standard fare (excludes Acela First Class, Business Class, and sleeper cars).
To get the senior discount on Amtrak, select “Senior” as the passenger type when booking online, by phone, or at a station. The discount is applied automatically.
Select “Senior (65+)” in the passenger details before checkout. The discount applies automatically.
No, the discount doesn’t apply to Acela First Class or Business Class, but it works on Acela Coach if available.
No, private rooms (Roomettes, Bedrooms) are excluded, but you can save on standard seating.
Usually no—most discounts (e.g., AAA, AARP travel packages) can’t be stacked with the senior rate.
Yes, carry a government-issued ID (driver’s license/passport) proving you’re 65+—you may be checked onboard.
Most routes qualify, but premium services (Acela, Auto Train, sleeper cars) and some promotions are excluded.
Compare both! AARP/AAA sometimes offer 15% off vacation packages (not standard fares), while the senior discount is 10% off regular fares.
