Bahncard goes digital-only. - Important Information for Rail Passengers
Starting in the second half of 2024, the German Railway (Deutsche Bahn) will only offer their Bahncard in a digital format. This move aims to reduce plastic waste and cater to the growing number of customers who prefer digital services. The Bahncard, which is valid for 12 months, will no longer be available in a physical form.
Instead, you can download the digital version of the Bahncard through the "DB Navigator" app on your smartphone or as a PDF document with a QR code from your DB customer account. You can print this document and take it with you on your journey. This option is set to be available from June 9, 2024. It's important to note that when presenting your journey, you need to show your identity card along with the printed Bahncard.
For those who purchase the Bahncard in a DB travel center or agency, a temporary card will still be available as a paper printout. This provisional card is valid for three months and serves as proof of purchase when you travel straight away. For Bahncard 25/50 or annual Bahncard 25/50 holders whose cards expire before June 9, 2024, you'll still receive both a physical and digital card. From June 9, 2024, new follow-up cards will only be in digital form.
To use the digital Bahncard, you must have a customer account with the German Railway. Your account should have a valid email address. Existing physical Bahncards can be added to your digital account using the Bahncard number. You can store your digital Bahncard in the DB Navigator app on your smartphone or have a printout with a QR code. Taking a screenshot of the Bahncard is not enough, according to the German Railway. This could be considered traveling without a valid ticket, leading to a fare increase of at least 60 euros.
During inspections, you must have your smartphone turned on to show your digital Bahncard. Failing to do so will result in a fare increase of at least 60 euros. If you're unable to display your Bahncard within 14 days, you can prove your ticket and valid Bahncard in a DB travel center, through the online portal, or in a personal chat. However, a 7 euro processing fee will apply.
