How to Get Reduced Train Fares in Indonesia

Many people prefer traveling by train over other modes of transportation, such as buses or planes. One of the reasons is that train travel offers more manageable schedules. When traveling by train, you won’t have to deal with traffic jams like you might when taking a bus.

Well, if you're someone who loves traveling by train, did you know there's a special fare called a ‘reduced fare’? By using this reduced fare, traveling by train can be even more budget-friendly. But what exactly is a reduced fare? Let’s dig in and find out!

Also Read: Want a Comfortable Trip Home? Choose KAI’s Luxury Class Trains!

What Is a Reduced Fare?

Reduced fare is a special rate from PT Kereta Api Indonesia for eligible passengers who meet specific requirements. Many people think this fare only applies to senior citizens, but in fact, there are several other categories of eligible passengers. Here are some of them: 

1. Senior Citizens (Aged 60+)

If you're a senior citizen or have elderly parents, you're eligible to register for the reduction fare. This category gets a 20% discount off the base ticket price and it applies to all classes: economy, business, and executive.

2. Journalists

Journalists who present a press ID and an assignment letter are also eligible for reduced fares. The discount is 20% off the base ticket price and only applies to economy and business class.

1. Military or Police Personnel

Active personnel of the TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) or Polri (Indonesian National Police), including those still in training, are also eligible for fare reductions. The discount provided is 25% for executive class, and 50% for economy and business classes. However, the reduced fare does not apply to the families of TNI or Polri personnel, nor to civil servants working in those institutions. 

1. Indonesian Veterans

Indonesian veterans are individuals who took part in the fight for and the defense of the independence of the Republic of Indonesia, and were officially registered as members of an armed unit recognized by the government. The reduced fares available for Indonesian veterans are divided into two categories:

• Tuesday to Thursday (excluding national holidays): 50% discount for all classes
• Friday to Monday (including public holidays): 30% discount for all classes

1. Academic Staff and Alumni

Active academic personnel, such as lecturers or teachers, as well as registered alumni of certain universities, may also get reduced fares on economy, business, and executive class tickets. The discount offered is 10% off the base price of economy, business, and executive class tickets. As of now, 15 universities are eligible for this reduced fare, though each university may have different regulations. So, make sure to check first whether your university is included in this reduced fare program.

1. People with Disabilities

Passengers with disabilities are eligible for a 20% discount for all classes.

Also Read: Tips to Avoid Confusion When Taking Trains in Japan

How to Register for the Reduced Fare

 Registering for the reduced fare is super easy. You just need to visit the customer service desk at any station that handles intercity routes. For example: Bekasi Station, Gambir Station, Cirebon Station, or the nearest one to you.

Next, prepare the required documents. The main documents are:

• A passport-style photo of the person being registered
• Their original ID card (KTP)

Besides those two documents, you might need additional supporting documents based on the type of fare reduction you’re applying for, such as:

• Journalists: Press card and assignment letter
• Military/Police: Official service ID
• Veterans: Original and copy of LVRI (Veterans Association) membership card
• Academic staff and alumni: Proof of identity in the form of a lecturer or teaching staff ID card, or an alumni membership card.
• People with disabilities: Doctor’s letter confirming disability

You only need to complete this registration process once, and it can also be done by someone on your behalf. The process is also quick and can be done up to 2 hours before the train departure time you plan to buy a ticket for.

How to Use the Reduced Fare

Enjoying the reduced fare is easy! However, it can only be used if you purchase your tickets via the Access by KAI app, available on both the Play Store and App Store.

You'll be asked to enter passenger details when selecting your train ticket. Just change the passenger type to ‘reduction’ and check the box next to the ticket. A discount note will appear under the passenger’s name, and the ticket price will automatically adjust.

Here’s a little tip if you’re using a reduced fare: If the ticket you're buying is a promo ticket, try comparing the total price with and without the reduction. Since the reduction fare uses the base price (not the promo one). Comparing both fares can help you get the cheaper option.

Now, to make your train journey safer and more comfortable, don’t forget to purchase Domestic Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia. Even for domestic trips, having insurance protection is still essential.