From 1st April 2008 if you’re 60
or over, or eligible disabled and live in England, your bus pass
will allow you to enjoy free off-peak* travel on local buses
anywhere in England.*Suffolk pass holders will 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. If you
have not had a bus pass before and believe you are entitled to one
please contact your local council. These can be found by
following the link below. They will need to see proof of
eligibility and require a passport style colour photograph (this
can be taken free of charge at certain offices, please contact your
local council for more information).
Contact details for District Councils can be found here
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New National Bus Pass?
Since 1st 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 1st April 2008, the new National Bus
Pass will enable 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 – Friday, and all day
weekends and bank holidays.
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 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 using the contact details on this
page.
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.