From January 2022, Deutsche Bahn AG will no longer sell tickets on its long-distance trains. The conductors are then mere inspectors and can no longer offer the purchase of tickets at the increased on-board price.

So far it has been possible in the ICE and InterCity train classes to buy a ticket from the conductor for a “service fee” of 17 euros. The flexible tariff is then always charged, which can be significantly more expensive compared to Internet saver tickets with a specific train connection. Nevertheless, many people use this option, especially when the decision to take the train is made at very short notice and the time for a web, machine or counter ticket is no longer sufficient.

In the future, Deutsche Bahn AG wants to enable this group of customers to buy tickets up to 10 minutes after departure using the company's app. Anyone who does not know this option, does not have a smartphone or the Internet connection does not work reliably, is then considered a fare dodger and will be asked to pay accordingly.