Smartcard FAQs

ScotRail Smartcards can be used to store tickets for travel across multiple modes of transport and multiple transport operators. This means you can travel on bus, rail and subway using just one ITSO Smartcard, rather than needing separate Smartcards or paper tickets for each operator.

Visit the Smart Travel website to see the full list of Smart options.

Smartcard tickets are the same price as paper tickets, but some of our best value products will only be available on Smartcard, like our new Smart Super Off-Peak Day Return.

When you buy a Season Ticket on Smartcard you’ll get other exclusive benefits online:

• A third off Standard Off-Peak Single and Return tickets for you and three adults aged 16+ when you're travelling together
• A £5 First Class upgrade on off-peak travel for you and three adults travelling together on your usual Season Ticket route

As a Smart Season Ticket holder, buy online and you can get:

• A third off Standard Off-Peak single and return tickets for you and three friends when you travel together
• A £5 First Class upgrade on Off-Peak travel for you and three friends travelling together on your usual Season Ticket route

You can make changes and get refunds on some tickets, with an administration fee.

Tickets on ScotRail Smartcards

• If you bought your ticket online please use our online refund request form.
• If you purchased at a booking office, you can request a refund there.

It can take a couple of seconds for your Smartcard to validate on the target area. If the problem continues, let one of the ScotRail team know and continue on your journey. If the problem continues, call our Smartcard team on 0344 811 0141.

You’ll need to buy a new ticket for your journey.

You may be eligible for a refund of the replacement ticket under certain circumstances. Call our Smartcard team on 0344 811 0141 to find out more.