FIRST-TIME RIDER GUIDE

Planning your first trip on Capitol Corridor? Whether you are organizing a fun trip for yourself, or if you are considering using Capitol Corridor to get to work, here are some tips on how to get the most out of your trip.

Research Routes & Schedules

The Route Map shows all 18 stations between Auburn and San Jose.
Review the Schedules page to see when and how often we serve all stations.
Check out our Destinations page for inspiration on where to go.
For assistance, check out our FAQ page or call Customer Service (1-877-974-3322) from Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm.

Buy Tickets

There are many ways to buy tickets:

From our homepage
From the Amtrak mobile app
From a station Ticket Kiosk machine.
From a station ticket agent
Onboard the train from an unstaffed station

Capitol Corridor is an unreserved service with flexible ticket options. No ticket changes are required under these conditions should your travel plans change. Tickets are valid up to a year from original date. Restrictions apply.

Are you a frequent rider and want more flexibility? Learn more about the Tap2Ride Pilot Program.

Prepare for Your Trip

Check out the Stations page for your station’s location, parking, staff availability, transit connections, and more.
Review the baggage policy for luggage and carry-on guidelines.
Learn more about train amenities (Free Wi-Fi, the Café Car, bikes, service animals, etc.) at our On Board Experience.
Review the Carry-On Pets Policy for booking, guidelines/requirements, and FAQ.

Arrive at the Station

Check the platform signs to confirm your train (it will say “Boarding” next to the train number.)
Board from any door. Unreserved service allows you to choose any seat on the train.
If you are bringing a bicycle on board, look for the car with the bike decal.
Once seated, a conductor will scan your ticket and mark your destination with a seat check placed above your seat. If you choose to move to another seat, bring this seat check with you.

Board Your Train

Select your trip on the booking widget.
Add your travel details and proceed until you see the option to customize your trip.
Add a pet to your booking for $29.
Contact 800-USA-RAIL if you need to modify your reservation.
*Please note: Purchasing a ticket with a pet reservation means that you need to travel on the date you purchase your ticket for. This reservation is less flexible than our general unreserved tickets.

Amenities

Complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you connected during your ride.
The Café Car offers a variety of food and beverages. You are welcome to bring your own food onboard.
Capitol Corridor does not offer checked baggage service. Learn more about the Baggage and Carry-on Policy.
Cats and dogs under 20 lbs can travel on Capitol Corridor for $29 one-way. Learn more about the Carry-On Pets Policy.
For more information about what you can expect on board a Capitol Corridor train, visit our On Board Experience.

Other Details

One seat, one ticket—please store personal items under the seat or in the overhead bin.
If you get up for any reason, take along valuables, such as phones, computers, or cameras.
Sign up for our service alerts and follow us on social media @capitolcorridor.
Capitol Corridor has convenient connections with BART at the Richmond and Oakland Coliseum stations.
Capitol Corridor offers free transfers to other connecting transit providers.

Save With Discounts & Promos

Check our fare promotions on the Deals & Promotions page.
Everyday discounts are available for children, seniors, students and more.
Frequent travelers can save with multi-ride tickets.
Groups of 20 or more can save with group ticketing options.