German for public transport
Phrases and vocabulary for tickets, connections, delays, and questions at machines or counters.
Check the line before boarding
Look at the display on the front of the train or bus: the final stop is shown there. It tells you whether you are going in the right direction.
Ask staff, do not guess
During works or cancellations, conductors often know the fastest workaround — ask them rather than only checking the app.
Keep your ticket until you exit
Inspectors can ask to see your ticket even at the end of the journey. Without a valid ticket you risk a sixty-euro fine.
Note your passenger rights straight away — do not wait
If your train is more than 60 minutes late, you are entitled to a refund. Immediately photograph the departure board showing the delay as evidence. Apply for the refund in the DB app under 'Fahrgastrechte' on the same day — you officially have a year, but the sooner the better. The Deutschlandticket itself cannot be refunded, but you may still be reimbursed for the cost of an alternative train or taxi.
Buying a ticket at the counter
You want to buy a ticket for a specific connection.
I need a ticket to Cologne for the two p.m. train, please.
One-way or return?
Asking about connections
You are not sure whether you have to change trains.
Do I have to change to get to Leipzig, or does the train go direct?
If so, where is the best place to change?
Reporting a delay and finding an alternative
You have missed your connection and need a new option.
My train was delayed and I missed the connection. What options do I have now?
Can I get a refund for the delay?
Ticket inspection — ticket not immediately to hand
A ticket inspector addresses you on the train. You have the Deutschlandticket but the app is not loading right now.
Excuse me, my app is not loading right now. I have a valid Deutschlandticket — may I quickly use the train's Wi-Fi so I can show it to you?
No problem. Please show me your ID so I can verify the ticket in your name.
How do I say that I have to change trains?
Use the verb umsteigen: I have to change in Hannover. Or as a question: Where do I have to change?
How do I ask about the price of a ticket?
Say: How much does a ticket to Bremen cost? Or shorter: What does the ticket cost?
How do I say that my ticket is not working?
Say: My ticket is not working. Can you help me? Staff can then check on the spot.
How do I get a refund if my train was late?
If your train is 60 or more minutes late, EU passenger rights entitle you to a 25% refund of the ticket price; from 120 minutes it is 50%. Submit the claim to the relevant operator — for Deutsche Bahn via the passenger rights form in the DB app or on bahn.de. Keep your ticket as proof.
What exactly is a Verkehrsverbund and why does it matter?
A Verkehrsverbund is a regional alliance of bus, tram, underground, and S-Bahn operators offering shared fares and tickets. A single ticket is then valid on all services within the network area regardless of the operator. Well-known networks include MVV (Munich), HVV (Hamburg), VRR (Ruhr area), and BVG/VBB (Berlin). The Deutschlandticket is valid in all network areas.
How do I cancel a public transport subscription in time?
Cancellation periods vary by transport network but are usually two to four weeks before the end of the month. Cancel in writing via the app, the online customer portal, or by email to the operator. The Deutschlandticket can be cancelled monthly at the end of each month. Make sure you receive a confirmation — without it your cancellation may not be registered.
Related Verbs
Open verb collectionsRelated Topics
These texts are for language learning and general orientation only and may be simplified or out of date — they are not legal, financial, medical, or tax advice. Some content is AI-generated. Please confirm important details with the responsible authority or a qualified professional.