Are Amtrak Seats Assigned?

When planning a trip with Amtrak, many travelers ask, “Are Amtrak Seats Assigned?” The answer depends on the train and class of service. Some premium options like Acela and Business Class on select routes offer assigned seating, allowing passengers to select or change seats during or after booking. However, most coach class seats are typically either open seating or assigned by the conductor when you board. So keep reading this blog to know how Amtrak’s seat assignments work, which can help you plan your trip better and avoid surprises when you get on the train.

When Amtrak Assigns Seats and When It Doesn’t

Amtrak seats are assigned in some cases but not in others, depending on the type of train and class of service.

When Amtrak Seats Are Assigned:

• On Acela trains, both First Class and Business Class seats are assigned. Passengers can select or change seats during or after booking through the Amtrak website or app.
• Business Class on select Northeast Corridor trains, like Northeast Regional, Carolinian, Palmetto, and Vermonter, offers assigned seating with options to select seats before travel.
• Private sleeping accommodations, such as Roomettes and Bedrooms, are always assigned to passengers after booking.

When Amtrak Seats Are Not Assigned:

• Most coach-class seats on regular routes are not assigned in advance. Passengers find open seats on a first-come, first-served basis or are assigned seats by the conductor at boarding, especially on long-distance trains.
• Some short routes or less busy trains operate unreserved coach seating, meaning there is no guaranteed seat.
• Seating arrangements may change en route due to operational needs, and conductors have discretion to move passengers as necessary.

In summary, premium classes and services have assigned seating, while most coach seating operates on an open or conductor-assigned basis.

Amtrak Seat Assignment Policies by Travel Class

To help you understand how seat assignments work on Amtrak, here is a clear breakdown of the policies for different classes of service.

Essential Tips to Secure Your Preferred Seat on Amtrak

Here are essential tips for getting a preferred seat on Amtrak:

• Book Early and Select Seats Online: For Acela and Business Class on select routes, choose or change your seats any time after booking via Amtrak’s website or app. Early booking improves your chances of getting preferred seats.
• Travel Together? Book as a Group: To sit next to family or friends, book tickets together. Amtrak tries to seat groups together when possible.
• Arrive Early for Coach: On routes without pre-assigned coach seats, boarding early helps you find better seats or sit together if traveling as a group.
• Ask the Conductor: If you do not have a seat assignment or want to change seats after boarding, the conductor can assist, subject to seat availability.
• Use the Amtrak App Onboard: You can check and change your seat via the app while the train is en route if open seats are available.
• Plan for Scenic Views: Research which side of the train offers the best views for your route and request a seat on that side if possible.

Following these tips will increase your chances of a comfortable, preferred seating experience on your Amtrak journey.

Frequently Asked Questions