If you commute around the DMV, you know the drill: traffic on I-95, unpredictable delays, and timing your life around train schedules. Recently, I discovered a VRE commuter hack that saves time and makes the ride into DC way more comfortable.
With the Amtrak Step-Up Program, Virginia Railway Express (VRE) riders can hop on select Amtrak trains for an additional $4 using the VRE Mobile App. I tested out the program, and it’s easily the best value upgrade in the region. Whether you’re dodging a delay or just want a seat with a tray table and Wi-Fi, here is everything you need to know.
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What Is the Amtrak Step-Up Program?
The Amtrak Step-Up Program allows VRE riders with either:
- A VRE Mobile 10-trip pass, or
- A VRE Monthly (31-day) pass
…to board select Amtrak trains (at select stations) for an additional $4.
It’s essentially a mini-upgrade: your VRE ticket acts as the base fare, and the $4 Amtrak Step-Up ticket gives you access to certain Amtrak trains.
Key benefits:
- More frequent train options
- Available weekdays and weekends
- Seamless upgrade through the VRE Mobile App
The Amtrak Step-Up adds flexibility to your day, whether you’re running late, needing to get home earlier, planning a weekend trip into DC, or going home to visit family in Fredericksburg or Spotsylvania.
How to Use a Step-Up Ticket
- Open the VRE Mobile App: Ensure you have an active 10-trip or monthly pass.
- Validate your VRE ticket: Do this before you buy the upgrade.
- Purchase the $4 Step-Up ticket: Look for the “Step-Up” option in the ticket store.
- Validate the Step-Up: This ticket is only valid for a limited time, so do it on the platform.
- Check the Schedule: Ensure you are boarding a participating Amtrak train (look for the VRE logo on the Amtrak schedule).
- Board and Relax: Show both QR codes (VRE pass + Step-Up) to the Amtrak conductor.
Pro Tip
Make sure your VRE ticket covers the same zones as your Amtrak trip. For example, if you’re going from Fredericksburg (Zone 9) to Union Station (Zone 1), your VRE pass must be valid for those zones.
Important Things to Know
- Select Stations Only: Amtrak only stops at specific VRE stations (e.g., Union Station, Alexandria, Burke Centre, Manassas, Woodbridge, and Fredericksburg). Check the VRE Station Map to be sure.
- No “Kids Ride Free”: Unlike VRE’s policy, every passenger on Amtrak (including children) must have a validated VRE ticket and a $4 Amtrak Step-Up ticket.
- Check the Train Number: Not every Amtrak train participates. Check the schedule carefully for station stops and times before you head to the platform.
Pro Tip
A VRE 10-trip ticket can be used for multiple riders as long as you validate a ticket for each person, which helps make family or group travel more affordable.
Troubleshooting
If your Step-Up ticket doesn’t validate, it’s usually because:
- The VRE ticket wasn’t validated first
- Your VRE ticket doesn’t cover the zones for your Amtrak ride
- The selected Amtrak train doesn’t participate in the program
Need help? You can reach out to VRE at gotrains@vre.org or call 800-743-3873 for assistance.
Quick Resources & Downloads
Download the VRE Mobile App
You’ll need the app to purchase and validate your $4 upgrade:
- For iPhone: Download on the Apple App Store
- For Android: Get it on Google Play
The Step-Up program is all about flexibility. It’s perfect for those days when you miss your usual VRE train or when you just want a more relaxed “work-from-train” environment.
Give it a try during your next commute, and let me know if it changes your DMV travel game! If you see me at Union Station, come say hi!
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by VRE. All opinions expressed are my own.
