Germany considers passport photos on Deutschlandticket to boost rail security

A simple photo could transform rail travel in Germany—reducing conflicts and speeding up checks. But will tighter controls spark new tensions?

, and Administrator

2026 April 29 . 6:04 PM

1 min read

The image shows a sign on the door of a train that reads "You must wear a face covering on public... — The image shows a sign on the door of a train that reads "You must wear a face covering on public transport unless exempt or you could be denied travel or receive a fine". The sign is in the center of the image and is surrounded by a glass window on the right side.

Germany considers passport photos on Deutschlandticket to boost rail security

In the debate over improving security on trains, Germany's conservative Union bloc has proposed restricting access to railway platforms. "Other countries have shown that allowing only ticket holders onto the tracks works well and reduces the need for extensive checks," Stephan Stracke, deputy leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, told the Rheinische Post.

At the very least, major train stations should consider such access restrictions, the CSU politician argued.

At the same time, the transport policy spokesman for the Bundestag faction welcomed a proposal by Rhineland-Palatinate's Minister-President Alexander Schweitzer (SPD) to include passport photos on the Deutschlandticket. "Adding a photo to the Deutschlandticket strikes me as a good approach," Stracke said.

He noted that ID checks—often required for the Deutschlandticket—"appear to be a major trigger for aggression against railway staff." Stracke added: "We should take advantage of the de-escalation potential offered by a ticket that allows for direct identification without unnecessary hassle."