What are the rules on penalty fares?

ORR has no role in relation to penalty fares. Rules concerning penalty fares are set out in the National Rail Conditions of Carriage (NRCoC).

Train companies will have their own penalty fares scheme. All penalty fares schemes require the approval of the Department for Transport (DfT).

If you have been charged a penalty fare and wish to appeal against it, you should contact the relevant train operator and use its appeal system. If you are unhappy with the outcome of your appeal, you may wish to consider contacting Passenger Focus or London TravelWatch as appropriate.

Last updated: February 2013