Getting a Railcard is simple!

 

As someone aged 16-25, or a mature student in full-time study, there are 2 ways you can get your 16-25 Railcard:

  • Online (for both 1-year and 3-year Railcards)

  • At a station (for 1-year Railcards only)

 

Apply Online

 

You can apply online to get a physical or a digital Railcard.

 

Simply complete the form here.

 

But, before you do, make sure you have everything ready listed below:
 

  • Your device with the Railcard App installed if you want to get a Digital Railcard – you can't buy on the app so this is not essential

  • Proof of ID (UK Driving Licence, Passport or EEA National Identity Card)

  • A passport-style photo saved on your device or computer. (Use your phone, take a selfie! No filters though...)

  • A valid debit/credit card

  • If you are a mature student, you will also need to complete The Mature Student Application form to submit with the application

 

If you are applying for a Digital Railcard

Once you have completed the form, you should receive an email with a download code.

 

Open your Railcard App, tap the ‘+’ button on the top left of the screen and enter the digital Railcard download code.

 

Et Voila! Done! Happy Travels!

 

For more information and to see some of our most frequently asked questions about the 16-25 Railcard, head over to our FAQ page.

 

If you like to kick it old-school and get a physical Railcard

 

You’ll need to allow up to 10 days for it to get to you. If you paid for Special Delivery and placed your order before 15:45pm, your Railcard will be delivered within 2 days (Monday to Thursday) or 3 days (Friday to Sunday). If you are applying for a Mature Student 16-25 Railcard, please allow an additional 5 working days for application approval.

 

You’ll need to have your Railcard with you to receive the discounts that come with it, so be sure to leave enough time before your journey for the Railcard to reach you.

 

Need more info or help?

You can reach us on Facebook or X

 

Alternatively, you can email on railcardhelp@nationalrail.co.uk.

 

Apply In Person

 

You can also apply for your Railcard by visiting any staffed station ticket office and get your Railcard on the same day! Just be sure to allow yourself plenty of time between purchasing your Railcard and when you need to depart for your journey.

 

Before hitting up the ticket office, make sure you have everything listed below with you:

 

  • A completed application form, which you can download here
  • Mature students will need to complete The Mature Student Application form to submit with the application 
  • Proof of ID (UK Driving Licence, Passport or EEA National Identity Card)
  • A passport-style photo
  • A valid debit/credit card or cash

 

You can also renew your 1-Year Railcard at a staffed station. No need to bring the above, simply bring your current Railcard and a form of ID for proof of age.