On the train
Travelling with a wheelchair or need assistance boarding? We are here to help. All our Sprinters and ICNG Intercity trains have a retractable step that aligns with the platform, allowing you to board and exit the train independently—provided the platform is at the correct height.
Retractable step
Our Sprinters and ICNG Intercity trains feature a retractable step, making independent boarding possible when the platform is at the right height. If you can manage a small height difference, getting in and out of the train should be easy. Do you have limited arm strength or use a mobility aid with small wheels or low footrests? Then we recommend booking NS Travel Assistance - our staff is there to help.
Want to check if your train is accessible?
Use the NS app or Travel planner and select Extra options to show only accessible journeys. This way, you can immediately see where you can travel independently and where assistance is required.
Wheelchair spaces on the train
Look for the blue wheelchair symbol on the door to find the entrance to the wheelchair spaces. On Sprinter trains with automatic doors, the door will remain open longer to give you more time to board.
Each wheelchair space has a companion seat located either next to or opposite it. All trains are equipped with a wheelchair-accessible toilet, reachable from the wheelchair space. A floor marking indicates the correct placement of your wheelchair (with the backrest against the support).
Priority seats
All our trains have priority seats for passengers who need extra support, such as those with mobility impairments, older passengers, or pregnant women. These seats are placed near the doors for easy access and are marked with pictograms of a person with a cane or a pregnant woman.
Do you need a priority seat, but it's occupied? Feel free to ask politely if someone is willing to switch seats.
SOS button
Most trains have an SOS button located near wheelchair spaces and in the accessible toilet. This red button, marked with a bell symbol and SOS in relief, features LED lighting and provides audio feedback when pressed. Your alert is sent directly to the driver, who will coordinate with the conductor to take immediate action.
Check the exit side of the train
Find out which side to exit in the NS app, so you can position yourself in time. This information is also available as an audio announcement via your smartphone’s standard audio function.
- Instructions for iOS: after planning your journey, tap 'More' at the bottom right. Select 'More information' and your journey details will expand, showing the exit side at each stop.
- Instructions for Android: after planning your journey, tap the arrow icon in the top right. The icon will change, and your journey details will expand, showing the exit side at each stop.
This setting is saved for future journeys. You can also check the exit side in the Travel planner.
Preparing your journey at home
All you need to know about preparing your journey at home when you have a disability.
At the station
Which facilities are available at the station for people with a physical disability?
