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Free Bus Pass for Older People
In England you can get a free bus pass when you reach State Pension age. In London you can travel free on buses, the Tube and other transport from 60, but only within London. In Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland you can get an older person's bus pass at 60. In England and Wales you apply through your council.
At a Glance
Your Rights
What the rules say, with a link to the official source for each.
Older Person's Bus Pass
GOV.UK
In England you can get a bus pass for free travel when you reach State Pension age. If you live in London, you can travel free on buses, tubes and other transport from 60, but only within London. In Wales you can get a bus pass at 60, and in Scotland and Northern Ireland at 60. In England and Wales you apply through your local council. source
Time Limits to Know
Miss a deadline and you can lose a right. Check the dates on your own paperwork.
- State Pension ageBus pass in EnglandApply through your council
Steps to Take
Step 1 of 5
Check your State Pension age.
Step 2 of 5
Find your council on GOV.UK.
Step 3 of 5
Apply with proof of age and address and a photo.
Step 4 of 5
In London, look at the 60+ Oyster photocard.
Step 5 of 5
If refused or delayed, complain to the council.
(Tap the numbers to reveal steps)
Where to Go If It Is Not Put Right
Your options, in order, and when each one applies.
Your Council
Apply and complain here.
Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
Free, after the council's complaints process.
Good to Know
Small things that make your complaint stronger.
Free travel times can vary by area, so check with your council.
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If you would like one of our team to look at your problem, our initial case review is free. We cannot guarantee any outcome and we do not give legal advice.
Lead reviewer
Luke Marley
Founder and Lead Reviewer
Luke founded CPUK in 2026 after seeing how hard it is for ordinary people to get problems with companies put right. He oversees our guides and checks them against official sources.
Research by Katie Burt, Co-founder and Operations Lead (17 years in the care sector, including managing services for vulnerable adults), and the CPUK Research Team. Researched with AI-assisted research tools, then checked and corrected by our team.
Last checked: 13 October 2026. We are not paid by the companies we write about. Adverts never affect our guidance. Read our editorial policy.
Sources and official links
- gov.uk/apply-for-elderly-person-bus-pass Checked 13 October 2026
- lgo.org.uk Checked 8 October 2026