Depending on your age and circumstances, you may be eligible for a free bus pass.
Free bus travel is available across the UK, though only certain groups qualify for it. Your age and personal circumstances will determine whether you’re entitled to a complimentary bus pass.
This scheme aims to support people who may struggle to pay transport costs. Two types of free bus passes exist in the UK, both valid for local bus services: passes for older people and passes for people with disabilities.
But who precisely qualifies for these passes and what’s the application process?
Older person’s bus pass
According to the Government website, older people in England can obtain their bus pass upon reaching State Pension age, which currently stands at 66 for both women and men. In Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, however, applications can be made from age 60.
London residents can also secure free bus travel from 60 through the 60+ London Oyster photocard available via the TFL website, which includes complimentary travel on trains and additional public transport services.
Age UK indicates that other areas might offer travel discounts for those over 60. “It’s a good idea to check with your local council to see what help is available,” the charity recommends.
For further information about applying for the older person’s bus pass, visit the Government website here.
Disabled person’s bus pass
England doesn’t have a centralised provider for disabled person’s bus passes. You’ll need to contact your local council to establish eligibility and submit an application. You can apply for a disabled person’s bus pass on GOV.UK by checking your local council.
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The general criteria in England for a disabled person’s bus pass is if you’re aged five or over and you:
- Are profoundly or severely deaf
- Are severely sight impaired (blind) or sight impaired (partially sighted)
- Would be refused a licence to drive a motor vehicle, should an application be made under Part three of the Road Transport Act 1988, under section 92 of the Act (physical fitness), otherwise than on the grounds of persistent misuse of drugs or alcohol
- Are without speech
- Have a disability, or injury, which has a substantial and long-term effect on your ability to walk
- Have no arms or have long-term loss of the use of both arms
- Have a learning disability, that is, a state of arrested or incomplete development of mind which started before adulthood and includes significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning
Your condition will need to be permanent or last at least 12 months. If you live in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, the application process is slightly different. More information can be found online, here.
