Looking to travel across America without breaking your student budget? The Amtrak student discount offers eligible students ages 17-24 a valuable 15% discount on train fares nationwide, with some regional routes offering up to 25% savings. Whether you’re heading home for holidays, visiting friends, or exploring new cities during breaks, this guide shows you exactly how to unlock these savings on America’s rail network.
Key Takeaways
- National Discount: Students ages 17-24 save 15% on most Amtrak routes
- Regional Bonuses: California, New York, Virginia, and Midwest students may get up to 25% off
- Simple Booking: Use promo code V814 when booking online or through the app
- Advance Purchase: Book at least 1 day ahead to qualify
- Valid ID Required: Bring your current student ID card when traveling
- 500+ Destinations: Access America’s extensive rail network at student prices
What is the Amtrak Student Discount?
The Amtrak student discount is a fare reduction program that makes train travel affordable for college and university students. Students between 17-24 years old save 15% with the national discount, with special regional programs offering deeper discounts. For example, a $100 train ticket becomes $85 with the student discount, saving you $15 per trip.
Quick Reference Guide
| Question | Answer |
| Age requirement | 17-24 years old |
| Discount amount | 15% national, up to 25% regional |
| Best promo code | V814 (national) |
| Advance booking | Minimum 1 day required |
| ID needed | Yes, valid student ID |
| Booking methods | Online, app, phone, station |
| Combine discounts | No stacking promos |
| Earn points | Yes, 2 points per dollar |
Who Qualifies for the Amtrak Student Discount?
Age and Enrollment Requirements
To qualify, you must be:
- Between 17 and 24 years old
- Currently enrolled in an accredited educational institution
- Able to present valid student identification
Accepted Schools Include:
- High schools
- Colleges and universities
- Community colleges
- Graduate programs
- Trade and vocational schools
Required Documentation
When traveling, you must carry:
- Current school-issued student ID card
- Official enrollment letter (alternative)
- Current class schedule with your name (alternative)
Important: Conductors check IDs on the train. Always bring your original student ID, not just a photo.
How Much Can Students Save?
Discount Rates by Region
| Discount Type | Percentage Off | Example Savings |
| National Student Discount | 15% | $80 ticket = $68 |
| California Regional | Up to 25% | $100 ticket = $75 |
| New York Regional | Up to 25% | $60 ticket = $45 |
| Virginia Regional | Up to 25% | $70 ticket = $52.50 |
| Midwest Regional | 15% | $50 ticket = $42.50 |
Real-World Examples
New York to Washington, D.C.:
- Regular Fare: $49
- Student Price: $41.65
- Savings: $7.35 per trip
Chicago to New York:
- Regular Fare: $106
- Student Price: $90.10
- Savings: $15.90 per trip
Students making four round trips yearly save $60-120 annually on transportation alone.
How to Book: Step-by-Step Guide
Method 1: Online at Amtrak.com
Step 1: Visit www.amtrak.com/student-discounts
Step 2: Enter departure city, destination, and travel dates
Step 3: Select “Student” fare when viewing trains
Step 4: Complete booking and save your e-ticket
Step 5: Bring valid student ID when traveling
Method 2: Amtrak Mobile App
Step 1: Download the free Amtrak app (iOS/Android)
Step 2: Search for your trip
Step 3: Enter promo code V814 at checkout
Step 4: Complete purchase and receive mobile ticket
Method 3: Phone Booking
Call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
- Available 24/7
- Mention you’re a student
- Have student ID info ready
Method 4: At Amtrak Stations
Visit any ticket counter with your student ID. Note: In-person booking may have limited availability for discount fares.
Important Promo Codes
| Promo Code | Discount | Valid For |
| V814 | 15% off | National routes (most trains) |
| V307 | 15% off | Midwest regional routes |
| V353 | 15% off | California state-supported routes |
Routes Eligible for Student Discounts
Most Popular Student Routes
Northeast Corridor:
- Boston ↔ New York ↔ Philadelphia ↔ Washington D.C.
- Multiple daily trains
- Free Wi-Fi, power outlets
California Corridors:
- Los Angeles ↔ San Diego (Pacific Surfliner)
- Sacramento ↔ Oakland (Capitol Corridor – 25% off 6-ride passes)
- Bakersfield ↔ Oakland (San Joaquins)
Midwest Routes:
- Chicago ↔ Minneapolis (Empire Builder)
- Chicago ↔ Detroit (Wolverine – check multi-ride passes)
- Chicago ↔ St. Louis (Lincoln Service – special passes)
Long-Distance Routes:
- California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)
- Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)
- Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)
Routes NOT Eligible
Some state-funded routes are excluded from the national discount but may offer multi-ride student passes:
- Hiawatha (Chicago-Milwaukee)
- Lincoln Service (Chicago-St. Louis)
- Some Pacific Surfliner segments
Tip: For excluded routes, ask about state-specific multi-ride student passes that may offer better savings.
Regional Student Programs
California Students
Capitol Corridor: 25% off 6-ride student passes
- Regular 6-ride: $96
- Student 6-ride: $72
- Saves $24 per pass
Midwest Students
Use code V307 for 15% off on participating Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Missouri routes.
New York & Virginia Students
Enhanced discounts up to 25% on Empire Service and Virginia regional trains.
Tips to Maximize Your Savings
1. Book Early
While only 1-day advance required, booking 3-6 months ahead gives access to lower base fares. Amtrak uses dynamic pricing—tickets get expensive closer to departure.
Best Booking Timeline:
- 3-6 months ahead: Best prices
- 1-3 months ahead: Good availability
- Last minute: Expensive base fares
2. Join Amtrak Guest Rewards (Free)
- Earn 2 points per dollar spent (even on discounted tickets)
- Points never expire with activity
- Redeem for free travel
- Birthday bonuses
A student taking 4-6 trips yearly can earn a free trip within 1-2 years.
3. Travel Off-Peak
Avoid:
- Thanksgiving week
- Christmas/New Year’s
- Spring Break (March-April)
- Summer peak (July-August)
Best Times:
- Tuesday-Thursday departures
- Early morning trains
- Mid-January through February
- September through mid-November
4. Pack Smart
Amtrak allows free:
- 2 personal items
- 2 carry-on bags
Avoid checked baggage fees by packing efficiently.
5. Bring Your Own Food
Café cars sell food, but bringing snacks and meals saves $10-20 on long trips. Refill water bottles at stations.
What to Bring When Traveling
Essential Items:
- ✅ Valid student ID (original)
- ✅ Government-issued photo ID
- ✅ E-ticket confirmation (digital or printed)
- ✅ Phone charger
- ✅ Headphones
- ✅ Snacks and water bottle
Comfort Items:
- Neck pillow
- Eye mask and earplugs (for overnight trips)
- Light jacket (trains can be cool)
- Entertainment (book, laptop, tablet)
Amtrak vs. Other Transportation
Amtrak vs. Flying
| Factor | Amtrak (Student Discount) | Airlines |
| Average Cost | $40-90 regional | $100-250+ |
| Baggage Fees | Free | $30-60 per bag |
| Legroom | Generous, reclining seats | Cramped |
| Wi-Fi | Free on most routes | Often paid |
| Downtown Arrival | Yes | No (airports outside cities) |
| Security Lines | None | 1-2 hour waits |
Amtrak vs. Driving
| Factor | Amtrak | Driving |
| Cost per Mile | $0.15-0.25 | $0.40-0.60 (gas, wear) |
| Productivity | Work/study while traveling | Cannot work |
| Parking | None needed | $10-30/day |
| Stress | Low | High (traffic) |
Common Problems & Solutions
“My discount code isn’t working”
Try:
- Clear browser cache
- Use different browser
- Book through app instead
- Verify route eligibility
- Call 1-800-USA-RAIL
“The route is excluded from discount”
Solutions:
- Check for state-specific multi-ride passes
- Look for alternative routes with connections
- Consider nearby stations with eligible service
“Student discount seats sold out”
Prevention:
- Book 3-6 months early for holidays
- Check nearby travel dates
- Sign up for Amtrak alerts
Best Routes for Students
For East Coast Students
Northeast Regional (Boston → D.C.)
- 6-8 hours end-to-end
- Multiple daily trains
- Free Wi-Fi, perfect for studying
- Popular for: College visits, internships, weekend trips
For West Coast Students
Coast Starlight (Seattle → LA)
- 35 hours total
- Stunning Pacific Ocean views
- Popular for: Spring break, summer adventures
Pacific Surfliner (San Diego → San Luis Obispo)
- 5.5 hours
- Coastal route connecting major campuses
- Popular for: College students visiting friends
For Midwest Students
Empire Builder (Chicago → Seattle)
- 46 hours
- Glacier National Park views
- Popular for: Summer exploration, cross-country travel
Holiday Travel Tips
Thanksgiving
- Book 2-3 months in advance
- Wednesday is busiest day
- Consider traveling Tuesday evening or Thursday morning
Winter Break
- Most expensive period
- Book immediately when schedules open
- Avoid December 23-24 and January 1-2
Spring Break
- Florida routes sell out quickly
- Book 3-4 months ahead
- Consider less popular dates
Environmental Benefits
Choosing Amtrak reduces your carbon footprint significantly:
Carbon Emissions (per passenger mile):
- Flying: ~0.5 lbs CO2
- Driving alone: ~0.89 lbs CO2
- Amtrak: ~0.08 lbs CO2
Train travel produces 83% less greenhouse gas than flying and 73% less than driving.
Student Travel Stories
“How I Saved $238 on Spring Break”
Jake, Northwestern University
“I planned ahead and took Amtrak from Chicago to Miami with my student discount: $142 round-trip instead of a $380 last-minute flight. I slept on the train, met interesting people, saw amazing scenery, and saved enough for nearly two months of groceries!”
“Weekend Trips Made Affordable”
Sophia, UC Berkeley
“My friends and I use the Capitol Corridor student pass for weekend adventures. We’ve explored San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and San Diego for less than gas money would cost.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prove I’m a student?
Present your valid student ID card when the conductor checks tickets. Your ID must show your name, school name, and typically a current date. Alternative documentation includes enrollment letters or class schedules.
Can graduate students use the discount?
Yes, as long as you’re 17-24 years old and currently enrolled. Age is the determining factor, not academic level.
Can I book same-day with the student discount?
No, you must book at least 1 day in advance. Same-day travel requires paying the regular adult fare.
Does the discount work on sleeper cars?
No, the student discount applies to Coach class only. Sleeping car accommodations are not eligible for the discount.
Can I combine the student discount with other promo codes?
No, the student discount cannot be stacked with other promotional offers. However, you still earn Amtrak Guest Rewards points on discounted tickets.
What if I forget my student ID?
You may need to pay the fare difference between your discounted ticket and the regular adult fare. Always double-check before leaving for your trip.
Are community college students eligible?
Yes, all accredited institutions qualify, including community colleges, as long as you meet the age requirements.
Can international students studying in the US use this?
Yes, international students with valid US institution student IDs qualify for the discount.
How many times can I use the student discount?
There’s no limit. Use it on every qualifying trip as long as you meet eligibility requirements.
What’s the refund policy for student discount tickets?
Refund policies depend on your fare type (Saver, Value, or Flexible), not the discount. Check your ticket’s specific terms when booking.
Helpful Resources
Official Amtrak Resources
- Website: www.amtrak.com/student-discounts
- Phone: 1-800-USA-RAIL (24/7)
- App: Free download (iOS/Android)
- Social: @Amtrak on Twitter for service updates
Recommended YouTube Video
Your Next Steps
Ready to start traveling? Here’s what to do:
- Visit Amtrak.com/student-discounts
- Create free Amtrak Guest Rewards account
- Search for your trip
- Apply promo code V814
- Book with confidence
- Pack your student ID
- Enjoy the journey!
Final Thoughts
The Amtrak student discount makes train travel accessible and affordable for college students. Beyond the 15-25% savings, train travel offers something special—time to study, relax, meet people, and watch America unfold outside your window. Whether heading home for holidays, traveling to internships, or taking weekend adventures, Amtrak provides a comfortable, eco-friendly, and budget-conscious way to explore.
The real value goes beyond dollars saved. It’s about arriving relaxed instead of stressed, having time to think, experiencing scenic beauty, and making memories. Plus, you’re making an environmentally responsible choice that benefits the planet.
Safe travels, and we’ll see you on the rails! 🚂
Last Updated: 2026
Disclaimer: Amtrak policies and fares can change. Always verify current discounts, routes, and requirements directly with Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL or Amtrak.com before booking.
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