Train travel with relatives requiring care needs good planning, but is very manageable thanks to comprehensive Deutsche Bahn services. We show you what support you can get, which discounts apply and how to best prepare your journey.
At a Glance: Key Benefits
- Free Companion: With "B" marking in the disability ID
- 50% Discount: On all tickets with disability ID
- Free Mobility Service: Help with boarding/alighting and at the station
- Wheelchair Spaces: Available on all ICE/IC trains with accessible toilets
Haven't Applied for Care Level Yet?
A care level (Pflegegrad) enables financial support and benefits from the care insurance fund. Many markings in the disability ID that entitle you to train discounts require a recognized care level.
Apply for Care Level - Step-by-Step Guide (German)1. Markings in the Disability ID
The markings in the German disability ID (Schwerbehindertenausweis) determine which discounts you receive on the train:
Companion
Companion travels for free
Blind
Free local transport (with validation stamp)
Helpless
Free local transport (with validation stamp)
Severe walking disability
50% discount on all tickets
Walking disability
50% discount on all tickets
Tip: The markings are issued by the pension office (Versorgungsamt). If you have a care level, you can often also apply for a disability ID. More info on care levels (German)
2. Deutsche Bahn Services
Mobility Service
- Free help with boarding/alighting
- Accompaniment to platform and train
- Luggage service included
- Registration: 24h before travel
- Hotline: 01806 512 512
Wheelchair Spaces
- Reservation required
- Available on all ICE/IC trains
- Accessible toilet nearby
- Space for companion next to
- Ramps available for boarding
DB Lounge
- Barrier-free access
- Quiet waiting area
- Drinks & snacks
- Access: BahnCard 100 / 1st class
- Tip: With BahnCard Business
Luggage Service
- Suitcases door to door
- Book up to 2 days before
- From 18.90 EUR per piece of luggage
- Ideal for heavy luggage
- Bookable online
3. Step-by-Step: How to Book Correctly
- 1
Find a Connection
Search for a suitable connection, ideally with no or few changes. Note the departure time and train number.
- 2
Call the Mobility Service
Call the Mobility Service Center: 01806 512 512 (20 ct/call). Discuss your needs (wheelchair space, assistance required, etc.).
- 3
Book Tickets
The staff help with booking and apply all discounts (50% with disability ID, free companion with "B").
- 4
Confirm Mobility Service
The service is organized for departure and destination stations and any connecting stations. You receive confirmation.
- 5
On Travel Day: Arrive Early
Be at the station 30-45 minutes before departure. The mobility service will collect you at the agreed meeting point.
4. Practical Travel Tips
Plan Early
Book wheelchair spaces and mobility service at least 48 hours before travel. During peak season, better one week in advance.
Allow Buffer Time
Plan to arrive 30-45 minutes before departure. This provides security for the mobility service and any delays.
Prefer Direct Connections
Changing trains can be stressful. Choose direct connections when possible, even if they take a bit longer.
Use the Hotline
The Mobility Service Center (01806 512 512) provides expert advice and books suitable connections with all necessary services.
Bring Your ID Cards
Always carry your disability ID and care ID (if available). They entitle you to discounts and services.
Minimize Luggage
Travel with as little luggage as possible. Use the luggage service for heavy suitcases (book 2 days ahead).
5. Pre-Travel Checklist
Complete Before Traveling:
- Check disability ID with markings
- Reserve wheelchair or seat
- Register mobility service (at least 24h before)
- Choose direct connection (if possible)
- Pack sufficient medication
- Prepare care aids (walker, wheelchair)
- Drinks and snacks for the journey
- Note Mobility Service Center contact details
- If needed: Book luggage service
- Book return journey at the same time
6. Cost Example: Berlin to Munich
Person Requiring Care (Wheelchair) + Companion
With Disability ID (B)
- Person requiring care (Saver fare, 50% discount): 8.95 EUR
- Companion (marking B): 0.00 EUR
- Wheelchair space reservation: 0.00 EUR
- Mobility service: 0.00 EUR
- Total for 2 people: 8.95 EUR
For Comparison: Without Discount
- Person 1 (Saver fare): 17.90 EUR
- Person 2 (Saver fare): 17.90 EUR
- Total: 35.80 EUR
Savings with disability ID: 26.85 EUR (75%)
7. Important Contacts
Mobility Service Center
01806 512 512
20 cents/call from landline
Mon-Fri 6am-10pm, Sat-Sun 8am-8pm
Questions About Care Levels?
A recognized care level opens many doors: care allowance, relief services and often the prerequisite for a disability ID with markings.
Care Level Application: How It Works (German)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:
- Deutsche Bahn – Official Deutsche Bahn website
- DB Navigator – Official DB Navigator App
- DB Mobility Service – Accessible travel with Deutsche Bahn
- Care Level Help – Information about care level applications