UK railcard August 17 rule change 'lowers cost at critical time'

NewsUK NewsRail travelOne group will benefit for longer06:11, 04 Aug 2026Rules are changing(Image: Kirsty O’Connor/PA)People aged 18 will be able to travel for half price on most train services when railcard rules are relaxed later this month, the Department for Transport (DfT) has announced. The change relates to the 16-17 Saver railcard, which can be bought by people aged 16 or 17.‌These railcards currently expire when the holder turns 18, but from August 17 they will remain valid for a full year from the date of purchase. The DfT said the existing rule meant more than 70,000 students each year are an average of £175 worse off than their peers who are in the same academic year but have not yet become adults.‌The new policy brings the 16-17 Saver into line with other railcards. Rail minis