Terms & Conditions
Essential Information about the California Rail Pass
Eligible Trains
- Capitols, San Joaquin, and Pacific Surfliner corridor trains
- Most connecting Thruway services
- Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Dunsmuir, California
The California Rail Pass is not valid on long-distance trains, including the Sunset Limited, the Southwest Chief, the California Zephyr, and the Texas Eagle. On the Coast Starlight, travel to or from points outside California requires a separate fare, calculated between Dunsmuir and the out-of-state origin or destination.
Details
- The California Rail Pass is valid for travel on any seven days during a consecutive 21-day period.
- Travel during any part of a calendar day counts as using that day.
- Travel is limited to not more than four one-way journeys on a given route segment because it is not meant to be used by commuter travelers traveling the same route segment time after time.
- The pass is not transferable and must be used within one year of purchase.
- This pass may not be combined with other offers, discounts or promotions unless specifically allowed under the terms and conditions of such offers, discounts or promotions. Further rules and restrictions may apply. Passes subject to change without notice.
- Reservations and Tickets Required
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- In addition to holding the pass, you must make reservations on all trains. Please make your reservations well in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Also, you must obtain hard-copy tickets for all travel. Your pass is not valid without a corresponding ticket. A ticket is required for each travel segment and must be obtained prior to boarding. Please bring identification and be prepared to present it.
Accommodations
A pass holder is entitled to regular Coach Class travel. Passengers may upgrade to Business Class or Sleeping Accommodations by paying the applicable accommodations fees.
Refunds and Ticket/Pass Changes
Most tickets are refundable only if they have not been used and if all the tickets issued with them are returned. If the Pass is returned for cancellation or alteration, then we have a standard 15% cancellation/alteration fee in addition to an administrative charge per ticket, in all cases. Cancellations and alterations can only be made before pass has been used. All unused tickets must be returned marked "Cancelled".
Additional cancellation fees apply when sleeping accommodations are cancelled less than 24 hours in advance.
