At what age do you get a free bus pass in the UK? A regional guide

Eligibility for a free bus pass in the UK varies significantly by location and is subject to forthcoming changes. With many people relying on free travel for independence, understanding at what age do you get a free bus pass in the UK is vital for planning your retirement.

Quick Summary

Free bus pass eligibility in the UK is determined by where you live. While Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland offer free travel from age 60, in England (outside London), the age is aligned with the rising State Pension age, which is currently 66.

Key Points

• Regional Differences: The eligibility age for a free bus pass varies significantly across the UK, being 60 in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, but linked to State Pension age in England [1].

• England's Age is Rising: In England (outside London), the qualifying age is currently 66 but will increase to 67 between 2026 and 2028, aligning with the State Pension age [1, 3].

• London's 60+ Oyster: London residents can apply for a 60+ Oyster Card from age 60, offering free travel within the capital, separate from the main England scheme [1].

• Disabled Eligibility: People with certain disabilities can apply for a bus pass at any age, with eligibility criteria determined by their local council [1, 7].

• How to Apply: Applications are managed by local councils or regional transport bodies and can often be completed online, requiring proof of age and residency [1, 2, 4, 5, 6].

Understanding the UK's Concessionary Bus Pass Schemes

Across the UK, free or discounted bus travel for older people is a key concessionary benefit [1, 4]. However, the specific rules, particularly the qualifying age, are not consistent [1]. The eligibility age has undergone and will continue to see changes, especially in England, where it is directly linked to the State Pension age [1, 3]. This guide details the different schemes across the UK's four nations to help you understand your entitlements.

The Free Bus Pass in England

For residents in England, the age for a free bus pass is tied to the State Pension age [1, 2]. This means it rises in line with changes to the state pension system, rather than remaining a fixed age like 60 or 65 [1, 3]. The State Pension age is currently 66 for both men and women, and the bus pass can be claimed at this time [1].

• Upcoming Change: Between April 2026 and March 2028, the State Pension age is scheduled to increase to 67 [1, 3]. Consequently, the eligibility age for a free bus pass in England will also rise during this period [1, 3].
• Off-peak travel: An English bus pass typically allows free travel on local services during off-peak times, which are generally between 9:30 am and 11:00 pm on weekdays, and anytime at weekends and on bank holidays [1]. These specific times can vary by local authority [1].

The 60+ Travel Schemes in London, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

Residents in the devolved nations and London enjoy different rules, with free travel available from a younger age [1]. The rules for these areas are not affected by the changes to the State Pension age [1].

London

London residents have specific options for free travel:

• 60+ London Oyster Photocard: Available from age 60, this card provides free travel within the capital [1].
• Freedom Pass: For those at State Pension age or with an eligible disability, this pass offers free travel across London and free local bus journeys throughout England [1].

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

These nations offer free bus travel to residents aged 60 and over [1, 4, 5, 6].

• Scotland: The National Entitlement Card (NEC) offers free travel on bus services across Scotland [4].
• Wales: The Concessionary Travel Card allows free travel on most bus services in Wales [5].
• Northern Ireland: The SmartPass scheme provides free bus travel [6].

Comparison of Regional Bus Pass Schemes

The eligibility age for a free bus pass in the UK varies by location. In England outside London, the age is linked to the State Pension age (currently 66, rising to 67 between 2026-2028) [1]. London residents can get a 60+ Oyster card from age 60 for travel within the capital [1]. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland offer free bus travel from age 60 [1, 4, 5, 6]. Further details on eligibility and schemes are available from {Link: Age UK https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefits-entitlements/free-bus-pass-and-transport-concessions/}, {Link: Transport Scotland https://www.transport.gov.scot/concessionary-travel/60plus-or-disabled-free-bus-travel/}, {Link: Bridgend County Borough Council https://www.bridgend.gov.uk/residents/roads-transport-and-parking/concessionary-travel-cards/}, and {Link: nidirect https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/60-smartpass-and-senior-65-smartpass} [1, 4, 5, 6].

Applying for Your Bus Pass

1. Check your eligibility: Confirm your eligibility based on age and location [1].
2. Gather documentation: You will typically need proof of age, address, and a photograph [1].
3. Apply online or offline: For England, start with GOV.UK [2]. Other nations' applications are handled by their transport authority or local council [4, 5, 6].

For residents in England, the official government portal is the best starting point for applications. You can visit {Link: GOV.UK https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-elderly-person-bus-pass} for more information [2].

Bus Pass Eligibility for Disabled People

Individuals with certain disabilities may get a free bus pass regardless of age [1, 7]. Eligibility and application are determined by local councils [7]. Qualifying conditions can include mobility issues, sight or hearing impairment, or a learning disability [1]. If you think you might be eligible, contact your local council or check the GOV.UK website for disabled person's passes [1, 7]. This scheme is not linked to State Pension age changes [1, 7].

Conclusion

The age for a free bus pass in the UK depends on your location, with England's age tied to the rising State Pension age (currently 66) and other regions generally offering it from age 60 [1]. Awareness of these regional variations and upcoming changes in England is key to accessing this benefit [1, 3].

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age do you get a free bus pass in the UK, exactly?

The age varies depending on where you live. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, it's age 60 [1]. In London, the 60+ Oyster card also starts at age 60 [1]. In the rest of England, eligibility is tied to the State Pension age, which is currently 66 but will rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028 [1, 3].

Why is the free bus pass age different across the UK?

The age requirements differ because transport policy is devolved. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland set their own rules, while England's national scheme is tied to the central government's State Pension age policy [1]. London operates a separate local scheme [1].

What is the State Pension age for the bus pass in England?

Currently, the State Pension age is 66 for both men and women. This is the age at which you become eligible for a free bus pass in England. However, this age will gradually increase to 67 between 2026 and 2028 [1, 3].

Can London residents still get free travel at 60?

Yes. London residents can apply for a 60+ Oyster Photocard, which provides free travel on Transport for London (TfL) services within the capital from age 60 [1]. This is a local scheme and is not affected by changes to the national State Pension age [1].

How do you apply for a disabled person's bus pass?

To apply for a disabled person's bus pass, you must contact your local council [1, 7]. The application is not age-dependent but requires evidence of your disability [1, 7].

Are there any time restrictions for using a free bus pass in England?

Yes, in England, the older person's bus pass is generally restricted to off-peak travel, typically between 9:30 am and 11:00 pm on weekdays [1]. It is valid all day on weekends and bank holidays [1].

Can I use my English bus pass to travel in Scotland or Wales?

An English bus pass is generally valid for local bus travel anywhere in England. However, it is not valid for free travel within Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland [1]. Similarly, passes from devolved nations are not valid for free travel in England, except for limited cross-border journeys [1].

Do I need to renew my bus pass and how often?

Yes, bus passes typically have an expiry date and require renewal. The validity period varies, often around five years. You may receive a notification before it expires [1].