Does Amtrak Have a Student Discount?
Yes. According to our last check on November 13, 2021 Amtrak offers a 15% student discount
Get Discounted Train Tickets as a Student on Amtrak
Whether you’re traveling back home or want to travel the world, students ages 17 – 24 can get a 15% discount on their Amtrak travels through December 31, 2021.
Amtrak is the go-to method of transportation when you want to travel on a budget or just want a leisurely trip versus one that always has you rushing. Amtrak’s new student discount makes it even easier to pull the trigger on that trip you’ve always wanted to take or takes the pressure off asking someone if you could hitch a ride back home for the holidays.
If you’re looking to travel and are a student between 17 – 24, here’s everything you must know about the Amtrak student discount and how it works.
Who Qualifies for Discounted Amtrak Tickets?
To qualify for discounted Amtrak tickets, you must present a valid student ID and purchase tickets for travel between May 19 – December 31, 2021. You must make reservations at least one day before traveling. The discount is valid for fares nationwide.
What is Included in the Amtrak Discount?
Eligible students receive 15% off the regular adult fare for the trip. Like any train ticket, the fare is subject to availability and all routes and schedules are subject to change.
What are the Exclusions to the Amtrak Discount?
Amtrak is generous with its student discount this year. The discount is good on any fare except the following routes:
- Missouri River Runner
- Hiawatha service
- Wolverine
- Blue Water
- Pere Marquette
- Lincoln service
- Illini
- Saluki
- Illinois Zephyr
- Carl Sandburg
- Pacific Surfliner
- San Joaquins
- Capitol Corridor
- Keystone
- Pennsylvanian
- 7000 – 8999 thruway series
There may also be blackout dates for the discount, but they vary by area. Some of the routes they restrict the discount on are confusing, especially the Illini route since that’s a popular route in Illinois between Chicago and two of Illinois’ largest colleges.
How to Get and Redeem the Amtrak Discount
You can get the Amtrak discount by buying your tickets online or via the mobile app. If you buy your tickets on the app, use code V814 to get your discount.
You’ll need a valid student ID when you purchase the tickets and you can’t buy the tickets on the train – the discount is only valid online or on the app.
How to Make the Most of your Amtrak Student Discount
Like any travel plan, it pays to make your Amtrak travel plans early. To get the discount you must book at least one day in advance, but trains fill up fast. Amtrak isn’t required to offer a discount if a train is full.
Other Companies that Offer a Discount on Travel
- Eurail Pass – 25% off unlimited train rides in Europe for specified periods
- StudentUniverse – Get access to some of the lowest travel fares for students
FAQs about the Amtrak Discount
How early must you book your tickets for the Amtrak student discount?
Amtrak requires that you book your trip at least one day in advance. In other words, you can’t decide you want to go home today and book a train and get a discount. Put off your travels until the next day, though and it will save you 15%.
What is the cheapest way to buy Amtrak tickets?
Don’t assume the Amtrak student discount is the best way to buy your tickets. Amtrak often runs specials. Check them alongside the cost of your fare with your student discount and see which offers the best deal.
Does the Amtrak conductor check your student ID?
Yes, if you took advantage of the Amtrak student discount, you must show your valid student ID when you get on the train. It must be the actual ID – you can’t get on with a photocopy or electronic copy on your phone.
Save Money on your Trips with Amtrak with a Student Discount
If you’re traveling, consider taking the Amtrak and saving money on your route. You just need to buy your ticket online and have your valid student ID ready. The offer is good through the end of 2021, but don’t forget Amtrak always runs specials on specific routes too.
Either way, you should be able to save money on your train tickets and take a leisurely route to your destination while saving money.
