Free bus travel is available across the UK for certain groups, offering financial relief for those eligible. Bus passes are designed to assist older people and individuals with disabilities, providing access to local transport services without the usual cost.
According to Devon Live, these passes are essential for those who might otherwise struggle with transportation fees. The eligibility criteria vary depending on age and disability status, with different rules across regions.
Older Person’s Bus Pass
In England, you can apply for an older person’s bus pass once you reach the State Pension age, which is currently 66. However, in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, you can obtain the pass when you turn 60.
For those residing in London, free travel is available from age 60 via the 60+ London Oyster photocard, which grants access to buses, trains, and other public transport. Local councils in other regions may offer additional bus passes or concessions for individuals over 60, so it’s advisable to check with the local authority. As Age UK suggests,
It’s a good idea to check with your local council to see what help is available.
For more details on how to apply for the older person’s bus pass, visit gov.uk/apply-for-elderly-person-bus-pass.
Disabled Person’s Bus Pass
In England, there is no central provider for the disabled person’s bus pass. Applicants must contact their local council to determine eligibility. The general criteria for a disabled person’s bus pass in England include being aged five or older and meeting one of the following conditions :
- 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), other 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 the mind which started before adulthood and includes significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning.
You can locate your local council and apply for a disabled person’s bus pass on GOV.UK. Applications for both the older person’s and disabled person’s bus passes can typically be made through local councils.
For detailed information on eligibility and to apply, individuals should visit GOV.UK or their local council’s website.
