In most circumstances, you must purchase a ticket before you board a train. Most trains require reservations and passengers should not board reserved trains without a reservation. Passengers who do so are not guaranteed a seat and may be instructed to get off the train at the next station stop.
When Permitted: On most Amtrak trains, only the full, undiscounted, unrestricted fare will be available for purchase onboard the train; this is regardless of reservations made or fares previously quoted.
Call Ahead: To avoid any onboard ticketing problems, please call us at 1-800-USA-RAIL before you travel if you're planning to purchase your tickets onboard. Keep in mind that on most Amtrak trains only the full, undiscounted, unrestricted fare will be available for purchase on board the train.
Payment and Fares: In those limited circumstances when you are permitted to purchase your tickets onboard, you can pay with cash or credit card. Higher fares usually apply when purchasing on board the train.
When Permitted: We permit onboard ticket pick-up from a conductor in limited circumstances, for example, when:
Determining Eligibility: Based on your itinerary, our online booking system will determine your eligibility for onboard pick-up. If you are eligible, you will be presented with the option to pick up your tickets onboard at Step 4 of the booking process.
When making reservations by phone, your reservation agent will tell you whether you are eligible for this service.
