How to get The Key Smartcard, add tickets, and use it on train journeys
You can order The Key Smartcard and start using it in a few simple steps:
You don't need to buy The Key Smartcard or pay a deposit either. You'll only pay the cost of your normal ticket
Simply register for an account with us online, then ticket ‘Get The Key Smartcard with my account'.
If you already have an online account with us, then just log in and follow the options for applying for The Key Smartcard under ‘My Account’.
We’ll post your Key Smartcard. There’s no deposit and no postal charge – only the cost of your normal ticket which will be pre-loaded to your card so it’s ready to use.
When you arrive at the station, touch your Key Smartcard on the card reader or validator. This will normally be at the gate or free-standing validator near the station entrance or exit.
You’ll need to touch out again at the other end when you leave the train.
If you have a Travelcard, you will also need to touch in and out if you change onto London Underground, trams, buses or London Overground services.
On board the train, we may ask to check your ticket using a handheld reader. We may also ask to see some ID to prove that it’s your season ticket, a National Rail photocard is ideal.
When you first register for The Key Smartcard, you can purchase a ticket at the same time which will be pre-loaded to your smartcard so that it's ready to use once received.
You can buy your ticket online or from a ticket machine at one of our stations outside London. You can buy weekly, monthly or annual season tickets. Single and Return tickets area available to purchase at our ticket machines outside London.
When buying tickets online you need to:
For more information about The Key Smartcard, take a look at the handy links below:
Register for The Key Smartcard online to receive the smarter way to travel