The Deutschlandticket, currently priced at 58 euros per month, may increase to 62 or 64 euros in 2026 as negotiations among German states and federal authorities continue.

The main issue in these negotiations is how to compensate transportation companies for rising costs, which are expected to exceed the current annual government funding of three billion euros.

While the coalition agreement initially plans to keep the ticket price stable, it also outlines a gradual increase in user contributions starting from 2029 to manage cost increases socially.

Industry associations and the city council warn of a potential funding gap caused by revenue losses if the ticket price increases, threatening the financial stability of public transport.

Current financial support from both federal and state governments, each contributing around 1.5 billion euros annually, helps cover losses from the 58-euro ticket, with Bayern receiving the largest share of about 317.5 million euros.

The existing funding model relies on fare revenues and government subsidies, but the rising costs and revenue shortfalls due to the discounted ticket create ongoing financial challenges.

Legislation has been introduced to extend the ticket’s funding through 2026, with the federal government maintaining a planned contribution of 1.5 billion euros, though details on how to cover future costs remain unclear.

Transport officials emphasize the need for moderate fare increases and shared financial responsibility among consumers, the federal government, and the Länder to ensure system sustainability.

A law scheduled for discussion in the Bundestag on September 11, 2025, aims to secure funding for the Deutschlandticket through 2026, but the specific ticket price for that year has not yet been announced.

Opposition parties and industry groups criticize the current price as excessive, warning that further increases could undermine the goal of promoting public transit and environmental benefits.

The Länder have previously pushed for price increases and may raise the ticket cost before 2029, with the actual pricing policy remaining under regional control.

Key negotiations on the future funding of the Deutschlandticket are scheduled for September 18 in Munich, although some officials, including Federal Minister Patrick Schnieder, will not attend due to prior commitments.