Half-price train travel extended to 18-year-olds in major change to 16-17 railcard

Eighteen-year-olds will soon benefit from half-price train travel on most services, as the Department for Transport (DfT) announces a relaxation of railcard rules.

From 17 August, the 16-17 Saver Railcard, which can be purchased by 16- and 17-year-olds, will remain valid for a full year from its purchase date, even if the holder turns 18.

Previously, the railcards expired upon the holder’s 18th birthday.

The DfT said that the existing rule left more than 70,000 students annually an average of £175 worse off than peers in the same academic year who had not yet reached adulthood.

The new policy aligns the 16-17 Saver with other railcards.

The “common sense change” is “exactly what passengers should expect from the railway”, rail minister Lord Hendy said.

“I’m proud that this change will support young people and their families to lower the cost of travel at a critical time for teenagers, whether they’re pursuing further education, vocational pathways or getting their footing in the jobs market,” he said.

“Making travel fairer and more affordable is central to the vision for Great British Railways.

“By delivering simpler fares and putting passengers first, we’re creating a railway that’s easier to use, better value for money and focused on meeting the everyday needs of the people who rely on it.”

Read more: Railcards explained: How to save on UK train travel and which one is right for you

The 16-17 Saver Railcard costs £35 per year and entitles the holder to 50 per cent off most train fares.

Jacqueline Starr, the chief executive of industry body the Rail Delivery Group, said that extending the Railcard’s validity demonstrates the sector’s commitment to “offering better value fares and delivering a more joined-up railway”.

Kaynat Ahmad, the vice president for further education at the National Union of Students, described the Railcard as “essential for young people reliant on trains to get to college, work or training”.

Other railcards available include those for young people under the age of 30, seniors, couples, families and veterans.

The announcement comes after the government said the cap on most single bus fares in England will be cut from £3 to £2 in 2027.