Train travel is one of the most scenic and relaxing ways to explore the country, and for pet owners, the question of bringing your furry friend is always top of mind. The good news? Amtrak welcomes small dogs and cats on many of its routes!
Traveling with pets on Amtrak requires a little planning to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your companion. From weight limits and carrier sizes to booking your pet’s spot, we’ve broken down every essential detail of the Amtrak pet policy so you can travel with confidence.
Amtrak Pet Travel Policy at a Glance
What is the basic Amtrak pet policy?
Amtrak allows small dogs and cats to travel in the coach class of most trains. Pets must remain in an approved carrier and the combined weight of the pet and carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds. Furthermore, the maximum trip duration with a pet is limited to seven hours.
| Requirement | Details |
| Allowed Pets | Small Dogs and Cats only. |
| Weight Limit | 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier). |
| Carrier Size | Max dimensions of 19″ L x 14″ W x 10.5″ H. |
| Trip Duration | 7 hours maximum (including transfers). |
| Seating Class | Coach Class and Acela Business Class only. |
| Per Passenger Limit | One pet per customer. |
The Golden Rules: Weight, Carrier, and Trip Length
Before you book your ticket, these three rules are the absolute non-negotiables for traveling with a pet on Amtrak.
1. Pet Weight Limit: The Strict 20-Pound Rule
How much does my dog or cat need to weigh to ride Amtrak?
The combined weight of your pet (dog or cat) and its approved carrier must not exceed 20 pounds. This is a hard limit set by Amtrak for all pet passengers. This rule ensures that your pet can be safely stowed under your seat without obstructing the aisle. If you have a larger dog, unfortunately, they will not be eligible to travel on Amtrak under the standard pet policy.
2. Approved Pet Carrier Specifications
Your pet carrier counts as one piece of your carry-on luggage. It is essential that the carrier meets the following size and comfort requirements:
- Maximum Dimensions: 19 inches long x 14 inches wide x 10.5 inches high.
- Carrier Type: Can be hard-sided or soft-sided, but must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
- Pet Comfort: Your pet must be able to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around comfortably within the carrier without touching the sides.
Pro Tip from a Traveler: Make sure your dog or cat is already comfortable spending time in their carrier before your trip. The more relaxed they are in their cozy space, the better the train ride will be for everyone!
3. The 7-Hour Travel Cap
Can I take my pet on a long-distance Amtrak route?
No. Pet travel on Amtrak is limited to trips of seven hours or less. This total time includes any transfers between trains. This rule exists for the well-being of the animal, as they must remain inside their carrier for the entire journey. Long-distance and overnight routes are generally excluded from the pet policy.
Booking Your Pet-Friendly Amtrak Trip
You can’t just show up at the station with your furry friend! Space for pets is highly limited on each train, so securing a pet reservation is crucial.
How do I add a pet to my Amtrak reservation?
There is a limit of five pets per train, which means you must book your pet’s spot in advance.
- Online: Start your ticket booking on the Amtrak website or app. After selecting your routes and fares, you should see an option to “Add Pet” during the customization or checkout process.
- By Phone: If you need assistance or are modifying an existing reservation, you can call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) to have a reservation agent add the pet fare to your ticket.
The Pet Fee: You will be charged a non-refundable pet fee, which is typically $29 per travel segment. Always confirm the current fee during the booking process.
Essential Pet Paperwork: The Release Form
Before boarding, you must read and sign the Pet Release and Indemnification Agreement. This legally confirms you accept full responsibility for your pet’s behavior and care. You can usually access and complete this form online after your reservation is made, or you may be asked to complete it at a staffed station’s ticket counter.
Where Pets Can Ride on the Train
When you board, where can you and your companion settle in?
- Allowed Classes: Pets are only permitted in Coach Class and Acela Business Class.
- Where to Place the Carrier: The pet carrier must be stowed under your seat (not the seat in front of you) for the entire journey.
- Restricted Areas: Pets are NOT allowed in:
- Sleeping Accommodations (Roomette, Bedroom, etc.)
- First Class Seating (Acela)
- Dining or Café Cars
- Quiet Cars (on specific routes like Keystone and Pennsylvanian)
Important Pet Behavior Note: Your pet must remain inside the closed carrier at all times while in the station and on the train. They are not permitted to be out of the carrier, even for a quick stretch or bathroom break.
Amtrak Routes That Allow Pet Travel
Most regional and short-distance Amtrak routes in the contiguous U.S. allow pets, but some exceptions exist.
Pet-Friendly Routes Generally Include:
- Northeast Regional
- Acela Express (weekends/holidays only)
- Capitol Corridor
- Pacific Surfliner
- Amtrak Cascades
- Empire Service
- Keystone Service
- Many other shorter state-supported corridor services.
Routes Where Pet Travel is NOT Permitted:
- Long-distance/Overnight Routes (like the Auto Train, Coast Starlight, California Zephyr, etc.) – due to the 7-hour time limit.
- Thruway Connecting Services (Amtrak-operated buses).
- International Travel (routes into or out of Canada, like the Maple Leaf and Adirondack).
Always check the specific route details when booking to confirm pet availability for your intended journey.
FAQ: Quick Answers to Your Pet Travel Questions
Does my dog need a ticket to ride Amtrak?
Yes. You must purchase a non-refundable pet reservation, which is typically $29 per travel segment.
Can I travel with a large dog on Amtrak?
No. Only small dogs and cats whose combined weight with the carrier is 20 pounds or less are allowed.
Can I take my pet out of the carrier on the train?
No. Pets must remain completely inside their approved, closed carrier for the entire duration of the trip, both in the station and on the train.
Can I book a Roomette with a pet on Amtrak? A:
No. Pets are not allowed in any sleeper accommodations, including Roomettes, Bedrooms, or Family Rooms.
Do I need vaccination records for my pet?
While Amtrak agents may not ask to see them, you must certify that your pet is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccinations by signing the Pet Release Form. It is always wise to carry a copy of your pet’s health and vaccination records.
How many pets can I bring on Amtrak?
You are limited to one pet per passenger.
Our Final Advice for Pet-Friendly Train Travel
Traveling with your dog or cat on Amtrak is a wonderful way to avoid the stress of driving and to share your adventure with your beloved animal. The key is preparation!
- Book Early: Given the strict limit of five pets per train, securing your spot is the most important step.
- Carrier Acclimation: Get your pet used to their carrier before the trip begins.
- Potty Breaks: Ensure your pet has a thorough potty break right before you check in (at least 45 minutes prior to departure) and immediately upon arrival, as no breaks are allowed on board.