Free bus passes are a vital lifeline for thousands of Brits, who would otherwise be cut off from their community and essential amenities. Whether it's heading to thefor your weekly shop or travelling into the town centre for a coffee - the importance of subsidised shouldn't be dismissed.
With 'Awful April' bringing with it rising Council Tax, soaring , increased road tax and even a more expensive TV Licence Fee - even saving on the odd bus fare can help alleviate the financial sting. Last month, it was revealed that almost half a billion pounds was spent by councils in 2024 to plug a shortfall in funding for free bus passes.
And still, there are many people who are still paying for their bus journeys, despite being eligible for free travel. As a result,has compiled a full list of every person who can automatically qualify for a free bus pass - and explained how to get your hands on one.
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You can apply for an older person's bus pass if you live in England once you reach the State Pension age. This is currently set at 66 for both men and women but will increase in the coming years. Londoners are also entitled to free travel when they turn 60 - using the 60+ London Oyster photocard. This is restricted to journeys within the city and includes:
- Free travel on bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line (excluding between West Drayton and Reading) and most National Rail services in London.
- You can travel free on TfL services anytime Monday to Friday, except between 04:30-09:00. You can travel free anytime at weekends and on bank holidays.
- Discounted fares on River Services.
- Discounts on Santander Cycle Hire.
"You can also travel free on most National Rail services anytime Monday to Friday, except between 04:30-09:30," TFL added. "You can travel free anytime on weekends and public holidays."
In Wales, Northern Ireland, and , you can claim your free bus pass when you reach 60. Age UK advises that other areas may also offer travel concessions for people who are over 60, stating: "It's a good idea to check with your local council to see what help is available."
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As part of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, Brits could also be eligible for a disabled person's bus pass. However, there is no central provider of this pass in England, which means you'll need to contact your local council to check whether you're eligible and how to apply.
Disabled person's bus pass - eligibility
- Are severely sight impaired (blind) or sight impaired (partially sighted).
- Are profoundly or severely deaf.
- 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.
- 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.
Your condition will need to last at least 12 months. However, if you live in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland - the application process is different. You can .
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