The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed that from August 17, 16-17 Saver railcards will be valid for a full year from the date of purchase, rather than expiring when the holder turns 18. This change means thousands more young people will gain access to half-price train tickets for most services when the new rules come into effect.
Impact on young people
Under the existing rule, more than 700,000 students each year were left £175 worse off on average than those in the same academic year who hadn’t yet had their 18th birthday, as they lost out on the maximum discount available. The new rules will extend the time teenagers can benefit from a 50% discount on train fares.
The 16-17 Saver railcard costs £35 per year and gives the holder access to a 50% discount off most train fares. Under the new rules, 17-year-olds will be able to purchase this railcard up until the day before they turn 18, and the card will then remain valid for a full year, lasting until the day before their 19th birthday.
Alignment with other railcards
The DfT said the new expiry rules from August 17 will bring the card in alignment with other youth railcards, making train travel more affordable for young people. Under the 26-30 railcard, passengers can already buy the day before a holder’s 31st birthday, and it remains valid for a full year.
Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said: “This kind of common-sense change is exactly what passengers should expect from the railway.
“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.
“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.”
Broader fare reforms
The DfT said the changes come alongside a raft of fare and ticketing reforms ahead of the introduction of Great British Railways (GBR). Contactless options like pay-as-you-go and trials of innovative digital ticketing are being expanded outside of London to Manchester, Yorkshire and the East and West Midlands, while plans are underway to develop a GBR website and app that will act as a one-stop shop for passengers to buy tickets, check train times and claim Delay Repay.
Commenting on the eligibility change, Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO, Rail Delivery Group, added: “The extension of the 16-17 Saver’s validity demonstrates the rail industry’s commitment to offering better value fares and delivering a more joined-up railway for customers.
“By enabling customers who turn 18 during their academic year to receive a full year of savings from the date of purchase, we’re ensuring that young people can continue to benefit from 50% off rail travel throughout this important stage of their education.”
