Understanding the Free Travel Scheme in the Republic of Ireland
The Free Travel Scheme is a major social welfare benefit in the Republic of Ireland that provides free travel on state-owned public transport services. These services include Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, Irish Rail, and the Luas, along with many private operators. The primary criteria for eligibility relate to age and residency, with provisions also made for people with disabilities and carers. For most, eligibility starts at 66, not 60. However, there are specific circumstances where people over 60 can apply, primarily as a bereaved partner.
Eligibility for Over 60s as Bereaved Partners
If you are aged 60 or over and your late partner was a recipient of the Free Travel Pass, you may be able to continue receiving this benefit. To qualify, you must be a legally residing permanent resident of Ireland and be receiving one of the following social welfare payments:
- Bereaved Partner's Contributory Pension
- Bereaved Partner's Non-Contributory Pension
- One-Parent Family Payment
- An ordinary Garda Widow's Pension
- A Death Benefit Pension (under the Occupational Injuries Scheme)
Companion Travel with a Free Travel Pass
From September 2025, the scheme includes significant changes for those aged 70 and over who already have a Free Travel Pass. They are now entitled to a Free Travel Companion (FT+C) Public Services Card, which allows a companion over 16 to travel with them for free. For those under 70 who cannot travel alone for medical reasons, a companion pass can be applied for separately.
Concessionary Travel in Northern Ireland
The rules are different for those living in Northern Ireland. A different scheme is run by Translink, and benefits are tiered by age.
Northern Ireland SmartPasses
- 60+ SmartPass: Residents of Northern Ireland aged 60 to 64 can apply for a 60+ SmartPass, which grants free travel on all Translink scheduled services within Northern Ireland. This pass expires when the holder turns 65.
- Senior (65+) SmartPass: At age 65, Northern Ireland residents can apply for a Senior SmartPass. This provides free travel not only within Northern Ireland but also on public transport in the Republic of Ireland, as part of an All-Ireland Free Travel Scheme.
How to Apply for the Free Travel Pass in Ireland
For those in the Republic of Ireland who do not receive an automatic pass, applying is a straightforward process.
- Obtain the Application Form: The FT1 application form is available online at the official government website, gov.ie/freetravel, or at your local post office and Citizens Information Centre.
- Submit the Form: The completed form and any necessary supporting documents should be returned to the Free Travel Section of the Department of Social Protection.
- Ensure SAFE Registration: To receive the Free Travel Public Services Card (PSC), you must be registered with the SAFE identity verification process. If you are not already registered, the Department will notify you to arrange an appointment.
Comparison of Free Travel Schemes for Over 60s in Ireland
| Feature | Republic of Ireland Free Travel Scheme | Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Entry Age | 66 years | 60 years for local NI travel; 65 years for All-Ireland travel |
| Eligibility under 66 | Bereaved partner (60+) receiving a qualifying payment, or other non-age-related criteria (disability, caring) | All residents aged 60+ for local NI travel |
| Pass Name | Public Services Card (PSC) with FT code | 60+ SmartPass or Senior (65+) SmartPass |
| All-Ireland Travel | Automatically included for eligible cardholders | Available only for holders of a Senior (65+) SmartPass |
| Free Companion Travel | Available for some recipients (FT+C on PSC) | Not available for travel within Northern Ireland, but spouse/companion can travel free on cross-border services |
Conclusion
For those asking do over 60s get free travel in Ireland?, the answer is yes, but it depends heavily on your location and personal circumstances. While the Republic of Ireland’s Free Travel Scheme typically starts at 66, there are exceptions for bereaved partners over 60. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland offers a tiered system, providing a 60+ SmartPass for free local travel and an expanded Senior SmartPass at 65 for all-Ireland journeys. Understanding the specific criteria is key to ensuring you get the benefits you are entitled to in either jurisdiction. For comprehensive, up-to-date information on the Free Travel Scheme in the Republic of Ireland, visit the official government website, where you can find application forms and detailed eligibility criteria.
Glossary
- Free Travel Scheme: The government-run benefit in the Republic of Ireland providing free public transport.
- Public Services Card (PSC): The modern identification card that carries the Free Travel entitlement in the Republic of Ireland.
- SmartPass: The concessionary travel card used for free and discounted travel in Northern Ireland.
- Bereaved Partner: The qualifying term for a person whose late partner received a Free Travel Pass.
- Companion Pass (FT+C): An entitlement allowing a companion to travel free with the pass holder.
