Amtrak Military Discount for Active Duty Military & Family

Amtrak Military Discount for Active Duty Military & Family

For military personnel and their families, every bit of savings counts. Whether you’re traveling across states for duty or leisure, Amtrak recognizes your service and offers a military discount to show appreciation and respect. This discount makes train travel more affordable for active-duty members and their dependents.

If you’re planning a trip with Amtrak, understanding how the military discount works can help you save significantly on your fare. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore whether Amtrak offers military discounts, who is eligible, how to apply, any restrictions you need to know, whether retired military members qualify, and other factors. To know more details about Amtrak’s Military discounts, you can contact their customer service or the Amtrak official website.

Does Amtrak Give Military Discounts?

Yes, Amtrak proudly offers a 10% discount on rail fares to active-duty U.S. military personnel, as well as their dependents. This is a part of Amtrak’s broader effort to support service members and make transportation more accessible and affordable for those serving the country. This discount applies to most Amtrak trains and routes across the United States, making it easier for military families to travel without breaking the bank. Whether you’re headed home for leave, traveling for a relocation, or planning a family vacation, Amtrak’s military discount can make a meaningful difference.

Eligibility Criteria for the Amtrak Military Discount

Before knowing the military discount Amtrak, it is important to know the eligibility criteria and whether you fall under them or not. Here are the eligibility criteria that you must meet to avail of the discount. 

Active-Duty Military Personnel

  • The members of the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty are the most preferred ones.
  • The personnel include the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Marine Cops. 
  • Moreover, these personnel must present a valid United States Armed Forces Identification card. 

Military Dependents

  • The spouses and children of active-duty military members can also be eligible for the discounts. 
  • They must be able to present a valid dependent ID during the time of ticket purchase and at the time of travel. 
  • The discount also applies to these individuals when traveling independently (not necessarily with the service member).

National Guard and Reserve

  • The members of the National Guard and Reserves who are currently serving full time under active orders are eligible.
  • They must carry proper identification confirming their active-duty status.

How to Avail the Military Amtrak Discount?

How to Avail the Military Amtrak Discount

If you fall under the eligibility criteria, then you can avail of the Amtrak military discount, which is 10%. Here are the different ways through which you can get military discounts.

Booking Online (Amtrak Website or App)

  • Visit the official website, Amtrak.com, or the mobile app. 
  • Enter your travel details (origin, destination, and travel dates).
  • Before searching, check the “Passenger” section, and choose “Military” as the passenger type.
  • Amtrak will automatically apply the 10% discount to your eligible fare.
  • Make sure to carry your valid military or dependent ID during travel for verification.

Booking Over the Phone (Call)

  • Call the Amtrak customer center at 1-800-872-7245. 
  • Inform the agent about your eligibility for the Military discount Amtrak (whether you are an active-duty service member or dependent). 
  • Provide all your travel details and ensure the military discount is applied.

Booking at the Station

  • Visit the Amtrak station and reach the Amtrak ticket counter. 
  • Book your train ticket with the help of the personnel and opt for the military discount. 
  • Show your valid military or dependent ID.
  • The ticketing agent will apply the military discount to your fare.

Important Note: It is to be noted that the discount applies to the base fare only and does not cover additional services like upgrades, sleeping accommodations, or non-rail transportation.

Does Amtrak Offer Discount to Retired Service Members?

Amtrak offers a military discount for veteran service members at this time. It is not confirmed if the retired military personnel are eligible for the discount ot not. The discount is specifically limited to Active-duty military members, National Guard/Reserves on active orders, and Dependents of active-duty personnel only. However, retired military members can still be eligible for other discounts, like. 

  • Senior Discount– Travelers aged 65 and older can receive a 10% discount on most rail fares.
  • Veterans Advantage Program– While not an Amtrak-specific initiative, the Veterans Advantage Card can provide additional savings on Amtrak fares through separate offers.
  • Amtrak Guest Rewards– Retired military personnel who frequently travel may benefit from joining Amtrak Guest Rewards to accumulate points and earn free travel.

Restrictions for Amtrak Military Discount

While the Amtrak military discount offers great savings, there are some important limitations and restrictions to be aware of. Here are some of the factors that you need to consider with the Amtrak Military Discount. 

  • Only the Base Fare is Discounted: The 10% discount is applied to the base fare only. It does not apply to upgrades, taxes, service fees, or sleeper car reservations included in the travel.
  • Discount Exclusions: Military discounts are not valid on the following services: Acela Express (Business Class and First Class), Saver Fares, Thruway connecting bus and train services, and Auto Train (although occasional promotions may apply). So make your travel decisions wisely. 
  • Subject to Availability: The military discount Amtrak fares are subject to availability and may be limited during peak travel times or holidays.
  • ID Requirement: Valid IDs are necessary to travel with, and passengers must present a valid active-duty military or dependent ID when requested, especially during ticket checks or while onboard.
  • Not Combinable with Other Discounts: It is to be noted that the military discount cannot be combined with other promotional fares or Amtrak Guest Rewards offers, as one offer can only be applied.

Mostly Asked Questions 

Does Amtrak have military discount?

Yes, Amtrak provides a 10% military discount on the lowest available rail fare on the majority of the Amtrak Trains. The discount is provided to the Active-duty military members, National Guard/Reserves on active orders, and Dependents of active-duty personnel. 

Can military dependents travel without the service member and still get the discount?

Yes, military dependents can travel independently and still receive the discount as long as they carry a valid military dependent ID.

Do veterans receive any discount on Amtrak?

Yes, veterans of the United States Military with a valid military veteran identification card get a 10% discount on the train fare. 

Can I combine the military discount with Amtrak Guest Rewards points?

No, you cannot combine the Amtrak military discount with Amtrak Guest Rewards points for the same ticket purchase. Amtrak offers a 10% discount for military personnel, which is not combinable with other promotional offers like Guest Reward points or more. 

Is the military discount available on all Amtrak trains?

The majority of the  Amtrak trains qualify for the discount, but premium services like Acela, Auto Train, and certain Thruway connections are excluded.

Do I need to verify my military status during booking?

When booking online, you select your status, but you must present your military or dependent ID during your trip for validation.

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