Amtrak Wheelchair Assistance – Wheeled Mobility Device Services

Traveling through Amtrak can be hectic, especially when you have mobility limitations, whether it’s due to age, illness, or disabilities. While the train offers a comfortable and scenic view but getting off and on the train and finding your seats can be difficult. Amtrak offers dedicated service to make traveling easy and accessible for its passengers.

In this guide, we learn everything about Amtrak wheelchair assistance, including accessible booking and boarding options, and a properly planned trip to make the journey stress-free. Whether you are traveling short regional trip or a cross-country journey, this guide will help you prepare your journey with confidence and ensure your travel is safe, smooth, and comfortable. 

How to Reserve Seats with Amtrak Wheelchair Assistance?

To make sure you have the help and accommodation you need, it is advisable to inform Amtrak in advance to ensure all the equipment and services are available. You can easily book this service by following these steps. 

• Decide your needs and the services you are looking for, such as wheelchair service at the station or throughout the journey. Moreover, if you have a medical condition, decide whether you need oxygen or have any specific dietary needs. 
• Make your reservation at least 48 to 72 hours before your trip to ensure that accessible seats and services are available.
• You can easily book your tickets online through the official Amtrak website or by contacting Amtrak customer service at 800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245).
• Ticket agents are available at the station. Just inform them of all your needs and requirements, including boarding help such as ramps, a lift, or travelling with a service animal. Providing all details will help ensure all your needs are met.
• Call Amtrak accessibility lines to check your booking online and confirm your reservations and accessibility needs are noted. 
• Passengers who have requested wheelchair assistance are advised to arrive at least 2 or 3 hours before to avoid high traffic and rush, and ensure a smooth transition.
• Passengers traveling with special needs get rail fare discounts. For further details, you can check the Amtrak official website.

Available Wheelchair Support Services on Amtrak

Amtrak offers several range of wheelchair services according to each passenger’s specific needs. Amtrak staff are trained to assist passengers throughout the journey. Here are all the types of wheelchair services offered by Amtrak.

Wheelchair Boarding Assistance 

The Station staff assist you while boarding and exiting the train using ramps, a bridge, and a lift. This service is moderately available at all Amtrak stations, but requesting the service in advance will ensure its availability. 

Onboard Wheelchair Assistance

Amtrak provides a designated wheelchair so you stay seated for your entire journey. These seats are located in coach, business, and first class cars, usually located near the accessible restroom areas.

Red Cap Station Assistance

Amtrak has uniformed staffs who helps passengers move their luggage, walk to the platforms, board the train, and navigate the station. The staff will escort you from the ticketing counters to the gates and help you board the train easily. 

Onboard Accessible Bedrooms

On a long trip or journey, Amtrak offers accessible bedroom facilities with wider doors and space for a wheelchair. Before booking, you must clarify that you specifically require the accessible features. Accessible features are reserved first, so it’s advisable to request them 14 days before departure.

Accessible Group Travel

If multiple passengers with mobility limitations and embarking on the journey together can request group accommodations. Contact groupsales@amtrak.com  or call 1-800-872-1477 with your trip details at least 14 days prior. If the space and equipment are available, Amtrak will sell space at no additional cost. 

Bringing a Personal Wheelchair on Amtrak

If you are looking forward to carrying your wheelchair on Amtrak. No need to worry, Amtrak not only allows passengers to travel with a personal wheelchair, but passengers can also stay at their seats for the entire journey. Here are some important notes for passengers to make sure of before traveling with their wheelchairs. 

• Size and Weight limits: Amtrak accommodates most of the standard-sized mobility aids. Make sure your wheelchair adheres to the following dimensions. Width must be under 30 inches (76cm), the length should be 48 inches (122cm), and the weight should not exceed 600 lbs (273 kg). Passengers can bring both manual and electrical wheelchairs.
• Onboard Setting Options: Amtrak has setting options depending on your wheelchair and preference. If you have a non-collapsible wheelchair, you can remain seated in your wheelchair for the entire journey. But if you have collapsible wheelchairs, then you can be transferred to an accessible seat for the entire journey. Onboard assist will help you access the restrooms. 
• Preparing for Your Journey: Notify Amtrak at least 24 hours in advance if your wheelchair exceeds size limits or requires special assistance, and ensure your powered wheelchair is charged and in good condition. Label your wheelchair with your contact information in case of emergencies to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
• Storage and Handling: Personal wheelchairs are stored in designated areas onboard. Amtrak staff will assist with safe storage and handling of your mobility aid during travel, including during transfers if necessary.
• Assistive Devices and Additional Aids: You may bring additional mobility aids like scooters, walkers, crutches, or canes free of charge. Inform staff if you require assistance with managing or storing these items.
• Contact Amtrak: If your wheelchair size exceeds the limits or you have any queries or doubts, you can contact Amtrak customer services at 1-800-872-1477. The staff will guide you thoroughly and provide all the essential information to make your travel experience smooth and stress-free.

Essential Travel Tips for Passengers Needing Wheelchair Assistance

Traveling by train offers a scenic view with comfort and freedom. However, if you are traveling with any mobility limitation. Amtrak provides dedicated service, including ramps and lifts. By planning with clear communication, you can make your journey smooth and accessible. 

• Request Assistance Early: To ensure the availability of the required equipment, make sure to request assistance in advance. Submit your request 42 hours before boarding by using the Amtrak official website or by calling 1‑800‑USA‑RAIL (1‑800‑872‑7245). Although same-day requests might be accepted but with limited facilities. 
• Wheelchair measurements and weight: Make sure your wheelchair meets Amtrak’s size requirements. The wheelchair must be under 600 LBS. If you are unsure of the measurements, it’s advisable to confirm with Amtrak before traveling.
• Choose your seating: Before traveling, make sure you are choosing your seats according to your needs. Whether you want a wheelchair throughout the journey or need to transfer in your seats. Non-collapsible wheelchairs can be stored in designated tie-down areas, usually near accessible washrooms. 
• Book accessible sleeper rooms: On long-distance journeys, trains offer accessible sleeper rooms with comfortable bedrooms and space with private washrooms. The reservation should be done at least 14 days before, as they get booked quickly.
• Arrive Early: The station can be hectic and crowded. To avoid a rush, make sure you arrive station at least 2- 3 hours before. Arriving early will give you and the staff enough time to check in, arrange boarding, and complete necessary paperwork without feeling rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions