Taking the train for your next trip can be an incredibly relaxing and scenic way to travel. And with Amtrak serving over 500 destinations across 46 states, the opportunities are endless when it comes to planning your perfect railway adventure.
But before embarking on your journey, you may find yourself asking: do I really need to print my Amtrak ticket? Or can I just show up with a digital version?
The good news is that printing Amtrak tickets is not required in most cases. Thanks to eTicketing, you can forego the printer and simply display your ticket barcode on your mobile device to board the train.
Read on as we dive into everything you need to know about Amtrak tickets, whether eTickets need printing, and tips for a smooth boarding experience.
How Do You Get Amtrak Tickets in the First Place?
Before determining if printing is necessary, it helps to understand how you obtain Amtrak tickets in the first place. There are a few different options available:
- eTickets: The most common method, where your ticket is emailed as a PDF attachment that contains a scannable barcode. As long as it says “eTicket” at the top, it is valid for travel without printing.
- Printed tickets: If you purchase at an Amtrak station or kiosk, you will receive an old-fashioned printed paper ticket. This eliminates the need for printing on your end.
- Amtrak app: With the Amtrak app, you can access your eTicket by logging into your account. This provides a digital option instead of printing.
- Travel agents: Booking through a travel agent or third-party service may result in either eTickets or printed tickets depending on their processes.
- Will Call: If you have Will Call tickets, you’ll need to pick up printed versions at the station prior to departure.
Now let’s dive into the central question: whether you need to manually print tickets when you receive an eTicket via email.
Do You Have to Print eTickets for Amtrak Travel?
The short answer is no. For the vast majority of Amtrak tickets purchased online and sent as eTickets, printing is not required. Here are the key things to know about eTickets:
- eTickets are valid digitally and do not need to be printed. You simply show your barcode on your phone or tablet to the conductor when boarding.
- While you can choose to print eTickets, it is completely optional. The digital PDF contains everything you need to board and travel.
- As long as you have the eTicket PDF accessible on your device, you can forego printing. This allows for a streamlined, paperless experience.
- Printing may be required in special circumstances like exchanging a Will Call eTicket at the station. But for normal bookings, it’s unnecessary.
So in summary, you bought an Amtrak ticket online and received your confirmation with an eTicket attached? No printer required! Pull up the eTicket on your smartphone when the conductor comes around and you’ll be good to go.
How Do eTickets Work for Boarding Amtrak Trains?
eTicketing makes the boarding process quick and convenient across nearly all Amtrak routes and Thruway connecting buses. Here’s how it works:
- After booking online, Amtrak emails you the eTicket as a PDF attachment which contains a unique barcode. You can also access it via the Amtrak mobile app.
- To board the train, simply open your eTicket on your phone or tablet and show the barcode to the conductor when prompted.
- The conductor will then scan the barcode using a handheld device which checks the system and verifies your ticket purchase.
- Once the barcode is successfully scanned and your ticket purchase confirmed, you’ll be cleared to board the train. It’s that easy!
- Only one eTicket is needed for your entire party if traveling together. The same barcode works for everyone booked under the reservation.
With eTicketing, you can breeze through the boarding process ticket-free and paper-free. Just don’t forget to charge your device so it stays powered on when the conductor scans your barcode!
When Might You Need to Print an Amtrak Ticket?
While printing Amtrak tickets is not mandatory, there are certain situations where having a paper ticket comes in handy:
- If you need to exchange a Will Call or other eTicket at the station, you’ll need to print it to receive your paper ticket.
- For unstaffed stations where you cannot purchase tickets on site, printing guarantees you can board.
- As a backup in case your phone dies, loses connection, or your screening is difficult to read. Having a printed Amtrak ticket provides peace of mind.
- If you simply prefer having a tangible ticket or want one for keepsake purposes. Some find paper tickets more convenient over digital.
So while definitely not always necessary, having the option to print your eTicket ensures you’re covered no matter what. You can decide whether or not to print based on your specific trip and needs.
Tips for Managing eTickets on Amtrak
Follow these tips when traveling with eTickets to make sure your boarding experience is smooth sailing:
- Save the eTicket PDF somewhere easily accessible on your device so you can quickly pull it up when the conductor approaches.
- Screenshot or photo the barcode in case you lose network connection and cannot retrieve the file.
- Download the Amtrak mobile app which allows you to access eTickets from your account.
- Make sure your phone or tablet is sufficiently charged so the screen stays on when scanned. Consider bringing a portable charger.
- Print the eTicket as a backup in case of device issues or if traveling through areas with limited mobile service.
- Arrive at the station early so you have plenty of time to retrieve your eTicket and resolve any potential issues before departure.
What If You Need to Change or Cancel Your Amtrak Ticket?
Sometimes travel plans shift, requiring you to modify or cancel your Amtrak ticket. Here’s what to know if this happens:
- To make changes, log into your Amtrak account or call 1-800-USA-RAIL(1-800-872-7245). You will need your 6-character reservation number located on your eTicket.
- Cancellation policies vary depending on the ticket type. Typically you must cancel within 1-24 hours of departure for a refund.
- For most tickets, you can change the date or time at no charge if done prior to the original train’s departure. Restrictions may apply depending on the fare.
- If you need to exchange your eTicket at a station due to the changes, you’ll want to print the updated version to complete the exchange.
- For same-day changes, you’ll need to speak with an agent directly since eTickets cannot be modified once the scheduled departure has passed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amtrak Tickets
When should you arrive at the station for your train?
Amtrak recommends arriving 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time printed on your ticket. This gives ample time to access your eTicket and make your way to the platform.
How much luggage can you bring on an Amtrak train?
Each passenger can carry on two personal items, two carry-on bags, and two free checked bags meeting size and weight allowances. Additional checked bags cost $20 each.
Do they check ID when boarding Amtrak?
In most cases, conductors do not verify ID when tickets are presented for boarding. You may be asked for ID when purchasing tickets or traveling as an unaccompanied minor.
What if you lose your Amtrak ticket?
Contact Amtrak immediately if you lose your ticket, whether it’s an eTicket or printed ticket. Since you cannot travel without a valid ticket, you will need to take action as soon as possible.
If you booked online and have an eTicket, call 1-800-USA-RAIL(1-800-872-7245) or log into your Amtrak account online. Amtrak may be able to email you a new copy of the eTicket PDF if time allows before departure. Make sure to have your reservation number handy when you call.
If you had a printed paper ticket, you unfortunately have no option other than to purchase a new ticket. However, you can submit a Lost Ticket Refund Application to potentially get some money back on the lost ticket. Keep in mind fees and restrictions apply for refunds, and applications can take several months to process.
To avoid lost ticket issues, be sure to keep both printed tickets and eTicket PDFs in a safe place when traveling. Many also recommend taking a screenshot of the eTicket barcode as an extra precaution. Act fast if a ticket does become lost so you can take appropriate action before your train departs.
Final Tips for Smooth Amtrak Travel
Taking the train for your next trip opens up opportunities to relax and enjoy unique scenery as you watch the world go by. Follow these final tips to ensure your Amtrak adventure goes off without a hitch:
- Arrive early at the station so you have ample time to access your ticket and pass through security.
- Bring government-issued photo ID in case you are asked to show it when purchasing tickets or on board the train.
- Charge devices fully the night before and pack a portable charger so your eTicket is accessible.
- Print a copy of eTickets as a backup in case of phone issues.
- Know your reservation number located on the eTicket in case you need to make any changes.
- Review luggage policies so you know what you can bring on board and how to tag checked bags.
- Sit back, relax and enjoy the journey! Train travel is a wonderful way to take in scenic routes.
With eTicketing, boarding an Amtrak train is smoother than ever. In most cases, you can leave the printer at home and present your eTicket barcode right from your phone or tablet. Have an amazing trip on the rails!
