Preparethe placeget us ready

Getting ready for an Amtrak train trip.

Amtrak lets passengers with disabilities ask for changes to its usual rules when they need them. Ask at least 72 hours before you leave, and say clearly what would help; Amtrak answers within 72 hours. You can also ask any Amtrak employee on the spot.

Jump to the plan ↓

Sensory supports. One Amtrak policy for every train; it isn't autism-specific, so you describe what helps.

Hours

Ask at least 72 hours before departure. Phone 1-800-USA-RAIL; text or web chat 7 am to 11 pm Eastern.

Amtrak trains and staffed stations across the US

What you can ask for, in Amtrak's words

“Customers with disabilities can request reasonable modifications to Amtrak policies, procedures and practices, when necessary to allow the use of Amtrak services.”

“Passengers should make their request as far in advance as possible, but no later than 72 hours before departure, and clearly describe what is needed.”

“In instances when it is not feasible or practical to make a request in advance, customers can request an "on-the-spot" modification to the policy, procedure or practice at any time to any Amtrak employee.”

  • If Amtrak can't do what you ask, Amtrak says it will take other steps to help, as far as it can.
  • A companion isn't required. But Amtrak crews don't give personal care like help with eating, dressing, medicine or the bathroom, so anyone who needs that must travel with an attendant.

In their own words: amtrak.com. Checked Sun, Nov 1, 2026. Something changed? Tell us

Three things to know

  1. Ask at least 72 hours before departure, and clearly describe what's needed.
  2. Amtrak answers requests within 72 hours.
  3. You can also ask any Amtrak employee on the spot.

Visual schedule

Train Trip

  • Drive to the train station
  • Show our ticket
  • Get on the train
  • Find our seats
  • Look out the window
  • Have a snack
  • Bathroom
  • All done
Make it yours →

Ask before you go

  • autism-specific or sensory services
  • early boarding for families
  • quiet cars on every route
  • the passenger's discount amount
Call 1-800-872-7245
More about Amtrak accessible travel requests
  • Passengers with disabilities and up to one companion get a fare discount; the companion's is 10%.
  • Book on Amtrak.com or in the Amtrak app; a reservation can include one adult companion.
  • Call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245). TTY: dial 711. Text 1-800-872-7245 or use web chat on Amtrak.com, 7 am to 11 pm Eastern.

Source: amtrak.com