Train delays are unfortunately part of everyday rail travel. The good news: as a passenger you have clear rights to compensation. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation and German railway law guarantee you financial reimbursement for delays — regardless of whether the railway was at fault or not.

Your Rights When Trains Are Delayed

How to Claim Compensation

1. Online (Fastest Method)

Via bahn.de/fahrgastrechte you can submit your claim digitally. You need your ticket (order number or photo) and the delay confirmation. Processing usually takes 4-8 weeks.

2. At a Travel Centre

At any DB Travel Centre you can fill in the passenger rights form and submit it directly. Bring your ticket and delay confirmation.

3. By Post

Download the passenger rights form, fill it in and send it with a copy of your ticket to the DB Service Centre Passenger Rights, 60647 Frankfurt am Main.

Additional Rights for Major Delays

• Refreshments: For longer waiting times, the railway must provide refreshments
• Hotel accommodation: If an overnight stay is necessary due to delay, the railway covers hotel costs (reasonable amount)
• Taxi costs: Between midnight and 5:00 AM with scheduled arrival and at least 60 min delay: taxi reimbursement up to 80 EUR
• Using other trains: If expected delay exceeds 20 minutes, you may take a different train (with Saver tickets: only trains on the same route)

When Do Rights NOT Apply?

• For delays under 60 minutes at the destination station
• Force majeure (storms, strikes — Note: Since June 2023, passenger rights also apply during strikes!)
• If you were informed about the delay before starting your journey

Securing Your Delay Confirmation

Have your delay confirmed on the train by the conductor or at the station at the service point. Alternatively, you can also use a screenshot of the live display on our site as proof — we show real-time delay data for all trains.