Railcard is a discount card that gives discounted train ticket prices and is very popular in the UK. The 16-25 Railcard targets the youth and student population, making it the most popular option. Same as the 26-30 Railcard, It can help you save a significant amount of money on your travelling expenses. After all, trains are one of the most common means of building a commute in the UK.
What is 16-25 Railcard?
As the name suggests, this is a discount card for 16-25-year-olds travelling by train, usually enjoying a discount of 1/3 of the standard train fare. In addition, the card regularly offers different travel, leisure, food and drink deals. This card remains valid for trains operated by any rail company in the UK, like London, Manchester, Glasgow, and grants a 30% reduction.
Additionally, the London Underground accepts the 16-25 Railcard. Cardholders can bring their Oyster Card to an Underground station and ask a staff member to bind it to enjoy 30% off during off-peak hours.
16-25 Railcard Application and Prices
To obtain the card, you must be between 16 and 25 years old or currently enrolled in full-time education in the UK. The application fee is £30 per year, which pays for 3 train journeys. Additionally, the card is available in 1 year for £30 and 3 years for £70, with the 3 years being more suitable for undergraduate students. If the applicant is between 16 and 25, they can choose any 1- or 3-year term. And you can shop for a 3-year card until your 24th birthday. Current students who are over 25 years of age are then only allowed to purchase a 1-year card.
How to apply for a 16-25 Railcard?
First, visit the official website to download the application form. Then, provide your basic application information and have your school stamp it. Then, upload the application form, a scanned copy of your student card, and a passport-sized photo. You’ll receive the Railcard at your address within 5 working days. If you want to pick up your card quickly, go directly to the railway station with a photo and proof of identity. However, you can only get a 1-year card on-site.
In addition to the physical card, users can also download the Railcard APP to use the e-card. After paying for the online application, you will receive a “download code”. Enter the code into the app and the app will store your Railcard when you “Add your Railcard.”
What if I lose my 16-25 Railcard?
If you lose or damage a Railcard, you will need to pay a £10 fee for a replacement. However, if your card is stolen, you can obtain a free replacement by providing a police report. You can check the official website to see how to get a replacement.
If a user misplaces the mobile phone where they stored the Railcard, they can log in to the official website. Firstly, unlink the electronic Railcard from the lost device. After that, click “Request a new code for your Railcard” to get a new code, and then you can add the electronic Railcard to a new device. Note: You can store your Railcard on a maximum of two mobile devices per person.
FAQ about 16-25 Railcard
For frequent train travellers, investing in a 16-25 Railcard is a wise decision indeed. It can save up to a third on most rail fares within the UK, significantly reducing the cost of travel for students and young people. What’s more, the Railcard is not just for long-distance journeys, but also for shorter local journeys and off-peak city trips.
Yes, railcards for 16-25-year-olds can be used before 9 am. Always remember to check the terms and conditions of your railcard to ensure a smooth and affordable journey.
16-25 Railcard discounts only apply to the cardholder’s fare and not to any accompanying passengers. A two together Railcard is available for two people travelling together.
The 16-25 Railcard does not expire immediately after you turn 26. Instead, it will be valid until the expiry date marked on the card. However, once it expires, you won’t be able to renew your 16-25 Railcard as it’s designed for a specific age group. At this point, you may want to consider the 26-30 Railcard, which offers similar discounts and benefits to ensure your savings journey goes smoothly.
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