Commuter Rail Access Guide

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What You Can Expect at an MBTA Commuter Rail Station

MBTA Commuter Rail stations are marked with a large “T” logo and purple signs with the station name.

At larger terminals like North Station and South Station, train lines don't always board on the same track. About 10-15 minutes before the train’s scheduled departure, you can find the track number on the departure board. The station agent will also announce the track number over the loudspeaker.

If you need assistance finding the correct platform or train, MBTA staff members are available at North Station, South Station, and Back Bay Station to help you find your platform or buy tickets for your trip.

Boarding Commuter Rail Trains

There are 3 types of platforms at Commuter Rail stations: full high-level, mini high-level, and low-level platforms.

At both full high-level and mini high-level platforms, the conductor can deploy a bridge plate upon request to span the gap between the train and the platform.

Full High-level Platform

Full high-level platforms allow for level boarding at all cars of the train.

Mini High-level Platform

Mini high-level platforms allow for level boarding at 2 cars of the train.

Mini high-level platforms will typically be connected to low-level platforms by a ramp. Position yourself on the mini-high platform before the train arrives and the operator will assist you.

Low-level Platforms

Some stations only have low-level platforms, and customers are required to climb 3-4 steps to board the train.

Always check station accessibility features before you start your trip.

On Board the Commuter Rail

The conductor may ask for your destination stop to ensure you can safely exit the train at that station. They may also tell you which car you need to be in to exit at an accessible location. 

Paying Your Fare

The conductor will verify your ticket or pass as they walk through the train car. If you don't already have a ticket or pass, you can pay your fare with cash or a credit card on board on the train.

Priority Seating

Priority seating is available near every train door. Designated seating areas are available for customers who use wheeled mobility devices. Customers are expected to yield priority seats to older adults and people with disabilities, but cannot be forced to move.

Stop Announcements

Each station along the route will be announced by an automated system or by the conductor. If you aren’t sure where your stop is or which car to exit from, the conductor can help you.

Exiting Commuter Rail Trains

Some Commuter Rail stations are designated as “flag stops,” which means that the train will not automatically stop at them. You will need to tell the conductor you wish to exit there. If there are any flag stops along your route, the conductor will make an announcement prior to the train’s arrival at that station.

If you are exiting at either a full high-level or mini high-level platform, the conductor can deploy a bridge plate upon request to span the gap between the train and the platform.

Stations that have only low-level platforms require customers to descend 3-4 steps to exit the train.

Taking the Commuter Rail for the first time?

Learn more about schedules, maps, and navigating our train stations.

Check out our Commuter Rail Guide for Beginners