Accessible

Accessible Travel: Support & Tips

Everything about accessible travel: wheelchair spaces, companions, mobility service and discounts for people with disabilities.

Deutsche Bahn offers comprehensive support for people with disabilities or mobility restrictions. We explain which services are available, how to book and what discounts you can receive.

Accessible Travel: Key Facts

  • Wheelchair Spaces: Reservation required, available on ICE and IC trains
  • Companion: Free with disability ID "B"
  • Discount: 50% with disability ID
  • Mobility Service: Free assistance at stations

1. Available Services

Wheelchair Spaces

  • Reservation required
  • Barrier-free access
  • Extra space
  • Available on ICE and IC trains

Companion

  • Free with disability ID "B"
  • No separate ticket required
  • Assists with boarding and alighting
  • Can also travel without ID (ticket required)

Mobility Service

  • Free assistance at the station
  • Register at least 24h in advance
  • Help with boarding and alighting
  • Luggage assistance

Guide Dogs

  • Free of charge
  • No ticket required
  • Certification required
  • Allowed everywhere

2. Disability ID: Discounts & Benefits

With a German disability ID (Schwerbehindertenausweis) you receive:

50% Discount

On all ticket types (Saver fare, Flex fare)

Applies in addition to BahnCard discounts

Free Companion

With marking "B" (companion)

Companion does not need a ticket

Note: The disability ID must be presented when booking and carried during the journey. The discounts do not apply to companions without their own ticket.

3. Booking Wheelchair Spaces

How to book a wheelchair space:

  1. 1

    Call the Hotline

    Call the DB hotline: 01806 996633 (20 cents/call). You'll receive specialized assistance here.

  2. 2

    Discuss Your Needs

    Explain your requirements (wheelchair, companion, etc.). The staff will help with the optimal booking.

  3. 3

    Confirm Reservation

    The wheelchair space will be reserved. You'll receive confirmation by email or post.

  4. 4

    Register Mobility Service

    Register for the Mobility Service at least 24 hours before departure (free of charge).

4. Mobility Service: Assistance at Stations

The Mobility Service offers free assistance at stations:

  • Help with boarding and alighting: Staff assist with getting on and off the train
  • Luggage assistance: Help with carrying luggage
  • Orientation: Help finding the right platform and train
  • Registration: At least 24 hours before departure (free of charge)

How to register for the Mobility Service:

  • By phone: 01806 996633
  • Online: bahn.de/mobiler-service
  • At a travel center
  • At least 24 hours before departure

5. Tips for Accessible Travel

Book Early

Book early, especially for wheelchair spaces. These are limited and fill up quickly.

Use the Hotline

Use the DB hotline (01806 996633) for bookings. You'll receive specialized support and can discuss all your needs.

Register Mobility Service

Register for the Mobility Service at least 24 hours before departure. This ensures assistance will be available.

Bring Your ID

Bring your disability ID. It entitles you to a 50% discount and a free companion (with "B" marking).

Check Stations

Check before your trip whether your station is accessible. Larger stations are usually fully accessible.

Get Information

Get information about the accessibility of your connection before traveling. The DB hotline is happy to help.

6. Example: Traveling with a Wheelchair

Berlin - Munich with Wheelchair + Companion

Cost (with disability ID):

  • Wheelchair user: 8.95 EUR (50% discount)
  • Companion: 0 EUR (free with "B" marking)
  • Total: 8.95 EUR

Required:

  • Reserve wheelchair space
  • Disability ID
  • Register Mobility Service
  • Companion (optional, free)

Notice: All information is provided without guarantee. Schedules and availability may change at any time. For current and binding information, please visit the official provider websites. This website is not affiliated with Deutsche Bahn AG or other railway companies.

Last update: December 2025

Sources & More Information:

Frequently Asked Questions

Are German trains accessible?

Most ICE and IC trains are accessible. There are wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets and assistance for boarding and alighting. Some smaller regional trains may not yet be fully accessible.

Is a companion free of charge?

A companion travels free of charge if you have a German disability ID (Schwerbehindertenausweis) with the "B" marking (for companion). The companion does not need their own ticket.

How do I book a wheelchair space?

Wheelchair spaces must be reserved when booking. Book through the DB hotline (01806 996633) or at a travel center. Online booking is partially available, but the hotline is more reliable.

Are there discounts for people with disabilities?

Yes, with a German disability ID you receive a 50% discount on all ticket types. You can also use BahnCard discounts in addition.

How does station assistance work?

You can request free assistance at the station (Mobility Service). Register at least 24 hours before departure. Staff will help with boarding, alighting and luggage.

Are guide dogs free?

Yes, guide dogs for the blind travel free and do not need a ticket. They must be certified and have valid documentation.

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