The CEA Card: what it is, who can get one and where to use it
The CEA Card is the national card for getting a free carer ticket at UK cinemas. 13 of the 13 cinema chains we track give a carer a free ticket.
CEA Card questions answered
What is the CEA Card?
It is a national card scheme for UK cinemas. A cardholder who buys the applicable full price ticket at a participating cinema can bring one person along free of charge to help them.
Who runs the CEA Card scheme?
The scheme is run by the UK Cinema Association. Its Disability Working Group, which includes cinema operators, film distributors and national disability charities, oversees it.
Who is eligible for a CEA Card?
You must be aged 5 or over and need someone with you at the cinema because of your disability. Under 16s need a parent or guardian to complete the application.
Which benefits or registrations qualify for a CEA Card?
Accepted evidence includes DLA, Attendance Allowance, PIP, Adult or Child Disability Payment, Pension Age Disability Payment, Armed Forces Independence Payment, or registration as Sight Impaired or Severely Sight Impaired. If none of these apply, you can still ask for your application to be assessed individually.
Does a Blue Badge or Universal Credit count as proof for a CEA Card?
No. Other access cards, the Disabled Person's Railcard, Freedom Pass, Blue Badge, Universal Credit, ESA, prescriptions and appointment letters are not accepted as automatic proof of need.
How do I apply for a CEA Card and what do I need?
You can apply online or by post. You need proof of eligibility, a clear recent head and shoulders photo and the fee, and to renew you will need your previous card number.
How much does a CEA Card cost?
The site gives the fee as £6.50, as at 13 October 2026. Postal applicants can pay by cheque or postal order made payable to CEA Card, but not cash.
How long does a CEA Card last and how do I renew it?
A card is valid for one year from its issue date, which is shown on the card. To renew you reapply through the same process, uploading documents again, and approval is not guaranteed just because you had a card before.
How long does a CEA Card take to arrive?
As at 13 October 2026, the FAQ says applications are processed within up to 10 working days of payment, provided the form and evidence are complete. If the card has not arrived, wait 3 weeks after the despatch email before getting in touch.
How do I use a CEA Card when booking cinema tickets?
The unique number on the card lets cinemas check it when you book ahead or at the box office. You buy a full price ticket for yourself and get one free ticket for your companion, for the same film and auditorium.
Can anyone be my companion with a CEA Card?
Yes, the card is in the cardholder's name, so family, friends or carers can take turns going with you. Companions are presumed to be 16 or over, though cinemas can use their discretion.
Which cinemas accept the CEA Card?
The site says around 90% of UK cinemas take part. Chains listed include Cineworld, Odeon, Vue, Showcase, Picturehouse, Curzon, Everyman and Reel, and there is a postcode search for independent cinemas.
What happens if I lose my CEA Card?
For a lost, stolen or damaged card you need to make a full new application, including eligibility documents and the fee.
Checked against the official sources on 13 October 2026: ceacard.co.uk, ceacard.co.uk/eligibility, ceacard.co.uk/apply, ceacard.co.uk/faq, ceacard.co.uk/terms, ceacard.co.uk/cinema-chains.
Cinema chains and the CEA Card
| Chain | Carer ticket | How to book |
|---|---|---|
| Cineworld | Free | Not stated |
| Curzon Cinemas | Free | In person at the cinema, on the website or app, by phone on 01233 555644, or via the contact form |
| Everyman Cinemas | Free | Enter CEA Card number at online checkout, or book by phone or at the box office |
| Light Cinemas | Free | Online or in person: choose 'Add a CEA carer ticket' and enter the card number |
| Merlin Cinemas | Free | Not stated (online and phone booking available, £1 fee per ticket up to £5) |
| Movie House Cinemas | Free | Not stated |
| ODEON Cinemas | Free | Online (web, not app) using CEA number, Disability Helpline 0333 015 1208 or box office |
| Omniplex Cinemas (UK) | Free | Not stated; wheelchair spaces shown with an icon when booking online or bought at the counter |
| Picturehouse Cinemas | Free | CEA number in the Ticket Voucher field online or app; or box office; or accessibility line 0207 294 7908 (needed without a CEA Card) |
| Reel Cinemas | Free | Online by entering the CEA number, or show the card at the box office (booking fee still applies per ticket) |
| Scott Cinemas | Free | Online by selecting the CEA ticket type, same as other tickets |
| Showcase Cinemas | Free | Online or at the cinema with CEA Card |
| Vue Cinemas | Free | Online with CEA number (no booking fee), in person or by phone |
Other venues that accept the CEA Card
- Alnwick Castle attraction
1 carer per disabled visitor (who must hold a valid ticket)
- Lyric Theatre (London) theatre
1 carer/companion (access pricing on up to 2 seats)
- Palace Theatre (London) theatre
1 carer/companion (access pricing on up to 2 seats)
See also cinema carer tickets compared and what proof you need for a carer ticket.
Built from our venue data, last checked 13 October 2026. How we check.