Free bus pass age is increasing - how to save on bus travel

If you’ve been counting on a free bus pass to help with travel costs, you might be surprised to hear that the age for getting one is going up.

The state pension age is currently 66, but from May 2026, it’ll begin increasing and will reach 67 for everyone by 2028. Getting a free bus pass is tied to the state pension age, so some people will have to wait longer before they qualify.

This change is only for pensioners in England. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, free bus travel is available for those aged 60 or over.

But if you’re based in England, there are still ways to save money on bus travel. Many local authorities run their own, more generous schemes, so it’s worth checking those out. Depending on your circumstances, you could also qualify for other discounts.

You could qualify for free bus travel if you’re disabled

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) offers free off-peak travel for those who have reached the state pension age, but also people with a qualifying disability. Qualifying disabilities include:

• being blind or partially sighted
• being profoundly or severely deaf
• having long-term mobility issues
• having learning disabilities
• being medically unfit to drive
• having limb loss or restricted use of limbs
• being without speech

If you think you might be eligible, it’s worth getting in touch with your local council to check how to apply. You can find contact details for your local council via the government website.

You could qualify for free travel with the 60+ Oyster card if you live in London

If you’re based in London, the rules around travel are a little different. People aged at least 60 can travel for free on buses, trams, and even some trains with the 60+ Oyster card.

If you qualify, travel is completely free on most London public transport, except between Monday to Friday from 04:30 to 09:30.

You can get discounted coach travel with the National Express Senior Coachcard

If you’re using buses to travel further afield, the National Express Senior Coachcard could work well. You can get a third off Standard and Fully Flexible fares across towns, cities and airports across the UK. It costs £15 and it comes with other special offers too. If it sounds like it might work for you, check out the National Express website.

You can get discounted travel with the Senior Railcard

If you travel by train, you can get a third off most rail fares across the UK on off-peak tickets with the Senior Railcard.

The Senior Railcard is available to anyone who’s aged over 60. It costs £35 for 1 year of £80 for 3 years.

You can check with your local council for extra support

Some local councils have their own travel discount schemes for older people. It’s worth checking with your local council to see if anything’s available.

While it’s frustrating that many people will have to wait longer for free bus travel, there are still options for discounted and free travel, so it’s a good idea to explore your options.