Starting today, the eligibility criteria for the Disabled Persons Railcard have been expanded, allowing more individuals, including Blue Badge holders, to qualify for the discount. This move broadens the scope of visible and non-visible disabilities that make individuals eligible for the railcard, which offers a 1/3 discount on rail tickets. On average, users save about £126 annually with the railcard, priced at £20 for one year or £54 for three years. Furthermore, one person aged 16 and above traveling with the cardholder can also benefit from the discount.
The extension of eligibility criteria was initially announced in November 2025 and is set to be further extended in September 2026. The upcoming expansion will include individuals with long-term or degenerative medical conditions and certain forms of neurodiversity that significantly impact their ability to travel by train. Detailed evidentiary requirements and application guidelines for the new criteria will be released before September.
Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO at Rail Delivery Group, emphasized the importance of widening railcard eligibility to enhance accessibility and confidence in rail travel. Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, highlighted the significance of the expansion in promoting inclusivity and affordability in everyday journeys, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing accessibility through the Accessible Railways Roadmap under Great British Railways.