How does The Key Smartcard work?

1. Register for a Key Smartcard online

Simply register for an account with us online, then select ‘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’.

You can also purchase a ticket at the same time.

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 onto your card so it’s ready to use.

Register for your Key Smartcard

Log in to your account

2. Start using your Key Smartcard

When you arrive at the station, touch your Key Smartcard on the card reader or validator. This will normally be at the gate or 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.

3. Buying new and replacement tickets 

When you first register for your 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. 

When buying tickets online you need to:

• Select the Key Smartcard fares button on the main purchase screen
• Choose a station to collect your ticket and start your journey
• Allow 2 hours before attempting collection from your nominated station
• At the station, touch your Key Smartcard on a card reader or validator