The Downeaster is a reserved service and tickets should be purchased in advance of travel. In circumstances where no other purchase options are available, you may purchase and/or pick up your tickets onboard. On-board ticket purchases are not eligible for discounts or special offers. Conductors may charge up to $9 extra per ticket if you board the train without a ticket at a staffed station or a station with a Quik-Trak machine.

Passengers boarding in Haverhill can purchase tickets in advance by phone or online. If the reservation was paid for in advance, the conductor can find your reservation on their mobile eTicket scanning device and check you in. If you are boarding in Haverhill and reserve — but do not pay for — your ticket, be sure to have your reservation number handy when you board the train.