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.

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.

For more information you can download a leaflet by clicking on the link below (Adobe PDF)