Starting today, more individuals, including Blue Badge holders, will be eligible for the Disabled Persons Railcard. The criteria for obtaining the railcard has been expanded to cover a wider range of visible and invisible disabilities.
With a Disabled Persons Railcard, passengers can enjoy a 33% discount on rail fares, saving an average of £126 annually. The cost of the railcard is £20 for one year or £54 for three years. Additional money-saving tips on transportation can be found here.
Moreover, the discount also applies to one companion aged 16 and above traveling with the cardholder. The eligibility for the railcard now includes individuals with various disabilities.
The initial announcement of the expansion of eligibility criteria was made in November 2025, with further extensions planned for September 2026. The upcoming expansion later this year will encompass certain long-term medical conditions and forms of neurodiversity that significantly impact a person’s ability to travel by train.
Detailed information regarding evidentiary requirements and application guidelines will be released before September. Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO at Rail Delivery Group, emphasized the importance of broadening the railcard’s eligibility to facilitate more accessible and confident rail travel.
Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, highlighted the significance of this expansion in fostering a more inclusive railway system and making daily travel more affordable for a larger population. The government’s commitment to accessibility through the Accessible Railways Roadmap aims to establish a more inclusive and supportive railway network for all passengers.