Does Amtrak Offer Military Discount?
As a token of appreciation for their service and sacrifices, Amtrak offers a military discount to active duty, retired, and disabled military personnel. This discount is available on Amtrak’s trains, buses, and ferry services. In this article, we will explore the details of Amtrak’s military discount program, including the eligibility criteria, discount rates, and how to apply.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Amtrak’s military discount, you must be one of the following:
- Active duty military personnel
- Retired military personnel
- Disabled military veterans
- Spouses of active duty or retired military personnel
- Dependents of active duty or retired military personnel
Discount Rates
Amtrak offers a 10% discount on most fares to eligible military personnel. This discount applies to:
- Coach Class tickets
- Business Class tickets
- Sleeping Accommodations (including Roomette, Bedroom, and Family Room)
- Bus tickets
- Ferry tickets
How to Apply
To apply for Amtrak’s military discount, you will need to provide proof of military service or eligibility. You can do this by:
- Visiting an Amtrak ticket counter or station
- Calling Amtrak’s customer service center at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
- Using Amtrak’s website to book your ticket online
Required Documents
To verify your military service or eligibility, you will need to provide one of the following documents:
- Military ID card
- DD Form 214 (discharge paperwork)
- VA Benefits Card
- Letter from the military or VA confirming your service or eligibility
Discount Restrictions
While Amtrak’s military discount is available on most fares, there are some restrictions to be aware of:
- The discount does not apply to:
- Acela Express fares
- Business Class upgrades
- Sleeping Accommodations upgrades
- Certain special events or charter trains
- The discount is not available for travel on Amtrak’s Thruway bus services
- The discount is not available for travel on Amtrak’s ferry services
Other Benefits
In addition to the military discount, Amtrak offers other benefits to military personnel, including:
- TSA Precheck: Amtrak offers TSA Precheck benefits to military personnel, allowing them to expedite their security screening process.
- Clear: Amtrak also offers Clear benefits to military personnel, providing expedited security screening and lane access.
- Military-friendly amenities: Amtrak offers a range of military-friendly amenities, including military-themed train cars, military-themed merchandise, and special military events.
Conclusion
Amtrak’s military discount is a valuable benefit for active duty, retired, and disabled military personnel. By providing a 10% discount on most fares, Amtrak shows its appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Amtrak’s military discount can help you save money and enjoy a more comfortable journey.
Table: Amtrak’s Military Discount Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Duty Military Personnel | Currently serving in the military |
| Retired Military Personnel | Honorably discharged from the military |
| Disabled Military Veterans | Honorable discharge with a service-connected disability |
| Spouses of Active Duty or Retired Military Personnel | Married to an active duty or retired military personnel |
| Dependents of Active Duty or Retired Military Personnel | Dependent of an active duty or retired military personnel |
Table: Amtrak’s Military Discount Restrictions
| Restrictions | Description |
|---|---|
| Acela Express Fares | Discount does not apply to Acela Express fares |
| Business Class Upgrades | Discount does not apply to Business Class upgrades |
| Sleeping Accommodations Upgrades | Discount does not apply to Sleeping Accommodations upgrades |
| Certain Special Events or Charter Trains | Discount does not apply to certain special events or charter trains |
| Thruway Bus Services | Discount does not apply to Thruway bus services |
| Ferry Services | Discount does not apply to ferry services |
Bullets: Other Benefits
• TSA Precheck benefits
• Clear benefits
• Military-themed train cars
• Military-themed merchandise
• Special military events
