How to get a free National Bus Pass
If you’re 60 or over, or eligible disabled and live in England,
your bus pass allows you to enjoy free off-peak
travel on local buses anywhere in England.
If you have not had a bus pass before and believe you are
entitled to one, please
contact your local council. They will need to see proof of
eligibility and require a passport-style colour photograph. The
photo can be taken free of charge at certain offices - please
contact your local council for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new National Bus Pass?
Since 1 April 2006, bus pass users have been guaranteed a minimum
of free off-peak local bus travel within the local authority area
in which they live. But from 1 April 2008, the new National Bus
Pass enables bus pass users to get free off-peak
travel on local buses anywhere in England.
Who can have a new bus pass?
Current bus pass holders in England and people who are:
- aged 60 years and over; or
- eligible disabled or blind/partially sighted.
For further details about application and eligibility, please
contact the council in whose area you permanently reside.
When exactly is off-peak travel?
Off peak hours are 9.30am until 11pm Monday to Friday, and all day
weekends and bank holidays. More about off-peak
travel for Suffolk residents.
What is the definition of a ‘local’ bus?
The definition of a ‘local’ bus will be self-evident in most cases.
But in a few instances, it could include some longer distance buses
and coach services where part of their route is registered as a
local bus service. If in doubt, pass holders can check with the
service operator if their pass will entitle them to free travel for
the route.
Will I be able to enjoy free travel everywhere within
the UK?
No, the bus pass can only be used within England.
Is it only applicable to buses?
The bus pass is only for local bus services.
If I visit an area that offers additional services, will
I be entitled to them?
Probably not. As a general rule, local councils will only provide
additional services for their own residents. Some authorities,
however, may provide them – check with the relevant councils in the
area to which you intend to travel.
I don’t live in London, but I visit relatives there
occasionally. Will I be able to enjoy the same benefits as a
Freedom Passholder if I travel there?
No. Because those benefits are paid for by the London authorities,
only London Freedom Pass holders will be able to enjoy additional
local travel on the tube, trains and trams. You will, however, be
able to enjoy the statutory national concession of free off-peak
bus travel when visiting the capital.
How do I get the new National Bus Pass?
Apply to your local council
(
contact details).
Do I need to get a new style pass if I’m not planning to
travel outside my local area?
All existing bus passes are being replaced with new style passes
automatically, so travel can be taken in the local area and
anywhere in England for free. Any new bus passes issued will be in
the new style for National Free Travel.
What will my pass look like?
The pass will be printed on white plastic and include your
photograph. Passes for those aged 60 and over have a blue strip
down the right-hand side and those for eligible disabled people
passes have an orange strip.
More about off-peak travel for Suffolk residents
Suffolk pass holders have the additional benefit of being able
to travel at any time (24 hours a day, seven days a week for
journeys starting in Suffolk). This is an additional benefit which
may not be offered by other counties, and so may not be available
when you travel outside of
Suffolk.