Accessing rail travel in the EU with disabilities: insights and guidance
The European disabled person's pass, a long-awaited initiative, is set to be introduced in June 2028. This pass will revolutionise travel for people with disabilities, enabling them to enjoy the same special conditions and priority treatment in other countries across Europe.
Currently, the German disabled person's pass does not hold validity throughout Europe. However, a few countries, such as Denmark and Austria, acknowledge national disability cards. In Denmark, for instance, German disabled person's pass holders can avail of a 50% discount on train tickets. Austria recognises the card without offering price reductions.
With the introduction of the European disabled person's pass, mutual recognition of disability status between EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway will be possible. This means that EU citizens with a disability can travel with the same special conditions across Europe starting from June 2028.
Cross-border assistance needs and luggage transport can be registered and booked on the pages of German Railways if the ticket was purchased there. However, these services may change with the introduction of the European disabled person's pass.
For more information about the European disabled person's pass, you can visit the EVZ (European Consumer Centre) information page. The EVZ has compiled extensive information on train travel for people with limited mobility and disabilities.
Stay tuned for updates as we approach the introduction of the European disabled person's pass in 2028, set to make travel more accessible and inclusive for all.
