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Which special events are excluded for free train rides under my membership?
Only fee-based special events are excluded. "Fee-based" special events are events for which there is a higher train ride ticket price because of an extra element to the train ride that is normally not available. These include: Easter Bunny Express, Rail Days, Day Out With Thomas, Trick or Train, Santa Train and Cookies and Cocoa with Santa. Other fee-based special events may be added in the future.
Members receive discounts to all fee-based special events except Day Out With Thomas, which is brought to the NCTM by an outside vendor. The special event exclusion does not apply during days in which there is an event unrelated to the train ride, such as Learning to Fly, car and truck shows or other similar programs. For questions about whether your membership benefits apply during a certain event, email membership@nctrans.org or call 704-636-2889, ext. 228.
What is the ASTC Passport Program and how do I use it ?
ASTC, or the Association of Science-Technology Centers, is an organization of more than 270 science and technology related museums and organizations worldwide. The Passport Program allows members of any one ASTC affiliate to enjoy certain membership benefits at other ASTC affiliates. The NCTM joined ASTC in 2005, and is proud to offer this additional benefit to our members.
Other ASTC affiliates within 90 miles of the member's home museum are not required to reciprocate benefits, unless both museums have a mutual agreement to do so. The NCTM has mutual agreements with nearly all of the centers within a 90-mile radius. To see the list of participating centers, click here. Some centers may have restrictions on benefits received, particularly during special events, so it is recommended that you call the center before your visit.
I am a member of another ASTC affiliate--what benefits do I get at the NCTM ?
Since the NCTM does not charge admission, ASTC members receive a free train ride. Free rides are limited to 2 adults and 4 children, or the number of covered members on the home institution membership, whichever is less. For example, if you have an individual membership at your home museum, only you will receive a free train ride. If you have a family of 6 and your home museum membership covers the entire family, your whole family can ride free.
We are not required to reciprocate with ASTC museums within 90 miles; however, we have agreements with most of these centers--click here to see with whom we reciprocate.
How long is my membership valid?
Your membership is good for 12 months, and will expire the last day of the month you purchased the membership. For example, if you purchased your membership on June 15 this year, it would be valid until June 30 of the next year.
You will be sent a renewal notice the month before your membership expires. You can request that your renewal notice be sent via U.S. Mail, email or both. To change your preference, email membership@nctrans.org.
When will I get my membership card?
You'll receive your card in the mail in about 2-3 weeks after purchase. Occassionally, due to holidays or special events, memberships may take an additional week to process. If you visit the museum before your card arrives, simply bring your online order confirmation or the copy of your membership application with you when you visit.
If you have not received your card within 4 weeks, please email membership@nctrans.org or call 704-636-2889, ext. 228.
What if I can't find my card?
We'll be glad to print you a new card. Just email membership@nctrans.org with your full name and address or call 704-636-2889, ext. 228. We can also look most members up in our computer system when you visit, unless you just purchased your membership.
My address has changed. How do I make sure I keep getting membership mailings?
Fill out our secure online
Change of Address Form
or call 704-636-2889, ext. 228.
My mailbox is full of junk fliers. Can I get membership mailings by email?
Definitely! Using email helps us save money and save the environment, and we want to communicate with you in the way that best suits you. Just email us at membership@nctrans.org and let us know which communication you would like by email, and which by mail. Please let us know your preferences for the following types of mailings: Event Notices, Shop Talk Members Magazine and Renewal Notices.
Is my membership tax deductible?
Fireman level and lower memberships are fully deductible as provided by law. Conductor, Engineer and corporate memberships are deductible less the values goods or services received by the donor. The NCTM Foundation will provide a description of goods and services and an estimate of their fair market value to the donor, per IRS requirements, with the membership card. For more information on deducting your membership, please contact your tax professional.
What if I have other questions?
Send an email to membership@nctrans.org or call 704-636-2889, ext. 228 and we'd be glad to answer your questions.
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