Disabled Persons Railcard Changes Coming in 2026

Last reviewed: 17 February 2026
Reviewed against: Rail Delivery Group and Disabled Persons Railcard official guidance

The Disabled Persons Railcard is set to expand in 2026, with changes expected from March and again later in the year. The aim is to widen eligibility and simplify the application process so that more disabled people and those with long term health conditions can access discounted rail travel.

At Purpl, we regularly hear from members who rely on rail travel for hospital appointments and specialist care, and cost remains one of the most common barriers.

With living costs continuing to rise for disabled households, even small travel savings can make a noticeable difference over the year.

For many in our community, rail travel is not optional. It means hospital appointments, work, education, caring responsibilities, and staying connected with family. A consistent one third discount can reduce financial pressure and remove one of the everyday barriers to independence.

This guide explains what is changing, who may qualify, and what to prepare before the new rules take effect.

At a glance

Eligibility is expected to expand in two phases during 2026
Phase 1 is scheduled for 1 March 2026
Phase 2 is expected from September 2026
The changes aim to better reflect non visible disabilities and some neurodivergent needs
The railcard gives one third off most rail fares across Great Britain for the holder and one adult companion
Evidence requirements are expected to become simpler

What is changing with the Disabled Persons Railcard

The most significant change is broader eligibility.

From 1 March 2026, phase one is expected to make it easier to qualify using documentation that many people already hold. This should reduce the need for additional complex evidence requirements.

From September 2026, phase two is expected to widen eligibility further. This may include more long term and progressive physical health conditions, as well as some neurodivergent conditions where they substantially affect a person’s ability to travel independently by train.

This reflects a more modern understanding of disability and the practical barriers people face when navigating stations, assistance systems and busy environments.

According to the Rail Delivery Group announcement confirming the eligibility expansion, the changes will be introduced in two phases.

Purpl Tip: If you previously assumed you would not qualify because your disability is non visible, review the updated eligibility criteria once published.

Who could qualify under the new rules

Detailed criteria will be confirmed in official guidance ahead of implementation.

The expansion is expected to benefit:

People who can evidence disability through recognised documentation
Individuals with long term or progressive physical health conditions
People with non visible disabilities that substantially affect travel
Some neurodivergent people whose condition significantly affects independent rail travel

The Disabled Persons Railcard currently provides one third off most rail fares across Great Britain for the cardholder and one adult companion.

Official Source:
https://www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk

Purpl Tip: If you were previously declined, check the revised criteria after March 2026.

How the application process is becoming simpler

Alongside expanded eligibility, the rail industry has committed to reducing administrative barriers.

Evidence requirements are expected to align more closely with documentation people may already hold, helping to avoid repeated requests for new medical letters or additional proof.

For people managing chronic fatigue, pain, cognitive processing difficulties or fluctuating symptoms, complex application processes can themselves be a barrier.

Official application page:
https://www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk/apply/

Purpl Tip: When applying, gather your documentation in advance and double check file requirements if applying online.

Why this matters for disabled households

Disabled households are more likely to face higher essential living costs. Travel is often one of the largest recurring expenses, particularly for hospital appointments or specialist care.

A one third rail discount can:

Reduce the cost of medical travel
Support access to work and education
Lower the financial barrier to staying socially connected
Improve independence for those who rely on companion travel

However, discounted fares must sit alongside reliable accessibility infrastructure. Working lifts, step free routes and dependable assistance services remain critical.

Purpl Insight: Affordability and physical accessibility must work together. A discounted ticket does not solve broken infrastructure.

What happens next and key dates

Key dates to watch:

1 March 2026 – Phase 1 eligibility expansion expected to begin
September 2026 – Phase 2 eligibility expansion expected

Further official guidance will clarify the final eligibility wording and accepted evidence before implementation.

The key question now is how widely the final eligibility wording will be applied in practice.

We will update this article when detailed criteria are formally published.

Frequently asked questions (faqs) about the Disabled Persons Railcard

How much discount does the Disabled Persons Railcard give?

It provides one third off most rail fares across Great Britain for the railcard holder and one adult companion travelling with them.

Can I use the Disabled Persons Railcard at peak times?

In general, the discount applies across ticket types, although specific fare restrictions depend on the ticket purchased.

Does a Blue Badge automatically qualify me?

No. Eligibility is based on the official criteria published by the Disabled Persons Railcard scheme.

Can people with non visible disabilities apply?

Yes. The scheme already includes some non visible disabilities, and the 2026 expansion is intended to broaden inclusivity further.

Will neurodivergent people qualify under the 2026 expansion?

The rail industry has indicated eligibility will expand to better reflect barriers to travel, including some neurodivergent conditions where they substantially affect independent rail travel.

In summary

The 2026 expansion of the Disabled Persons Railcard is intended to widen eligibility and simplify the application process.

If implemented as outlined, more disabled people and those with long term health conditions may gain access to one third off rail fares across Great Britain.

For many, that represents not just savings, but increased independence and improved access to essential travel.

All guidance in this article reflects official information available at the time of publication and will be updated if eligibility criteria change.

About the author

Georgina is the founder of Purpl, a UK platform dedicated to helping disabled people and those with long term health conditions reduce everyday living costs through verified discounts, financial guidance and accessibility information.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis and ADHD, she has first hand experience of navigating mobility support, travel accessibility and disability related costs. Through Purpl, she monitors official guidance and works directly with brands and organisations to ensure information shared with the community reflects current policy.

This article has been reviewed against official government and rail industry guidance at the time of publication. For full details of our editorial standards, see our Editorial Approach.

Other articles, or links, you might find useful:

How to Apply for a Disabled Persons Railcard
Ferry Discounts and Accessible Ferry Travel for Disabled People in the UK
Accessible Travel in the UK: Your Guide to Booking Trains, Buses, Taxis and More
Toll Concessions for Disabled Drivers: How to Save on River Crossings, Bridges, and Tunnels
How to Apply for a Disabled Bus Pass and Enjoy the Benefits of Accessible Travel

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Disabled Persons Railcard Rules Are Changing In 2026 – What It Means For Disabled Travellers