National Concessionary Bus Pass FAQs

Please see a poster giving information about the scheme below:

Who is eligible for the free nationwide bus pass? 

Over-60's and disabled people of any age who qualify. A full list of eligible categories for the scheme can be seen below:

Where can I travel with the free nationwide bus pass? 

The new national scheme will allow pass holders free off-peak bus travel on local bus services anywhere within England. The scheme will not include long distance services such as National Express for example. It also excludes travel in Scotland and Wales.

What is the definition of a 'local' bus?

The intention is for the new concession to entitle pass holders to free travel on any off-peak local bus service in England. This will be self-evident in most cases, but if in doubt, pass holders are advised to check with the coach operator first.

What is not included in the scheme? 

Scheduled coach services and long distance services such as National Express for example, are not included in the scheme.

What time can I travel using my new free bus pass? 

In the Oxford City Council area the new scheme offers free travel from 9am to 11pm on weekdays and all day at weekends and on bank holidays. Conditions of use may vary in other areas of the country so you may wish to check other authority areas before planning your journey.

I have an old pass from the Council, do I need to get a nationwide pass?

Yes, you will need a new national pass. This is because the new scheme will be nationwide and it will be necessary to have a nationally recognised bus pass. The Government has therefore decided to introduce a standard bus pass throughout England.

Will I have to pay for my new pass? 

No, the passes will be issued free of charge but you may have to pay for a replacement if you lose your pass.

Is there a limit on how many journeys I can make? 

No, the new scheme will allow you to travel off peak on local buses as far and as much as you like.

Is it only applicable to buses?

The new concession applies to bus travel only, but some authorities offer additional services.

If I visit an area that offers additional services will I be entitled to them?

Probably not. As a general rule, local authorities will only provide additional services for their own residents. Some authorities however may provide them - check with the relevant authority.

Will the new passes be smart cards? 

The new bus passes will contain a microchip which can store information electronically. This is to enable electronic ticketing methods to be introduced some time in the future. 

I do not have a local concessionary bus pass at the moment, how do I get one to use now? 

Visit our National Concessionary Bus Pass page for full details on how to apply for a bus pass. Alternatively you can pick up an application form from one of your Customer Service Centres located in:

• St. Aldate's Chambers (opposite the Town Hall) 
• Bullingdon Road in East Oxford
• 2/3 Bank Court, Templars Square Shopping Centre, Cowley

Where can I find out more information about the new scheme?

Visit the Concessionary Bus Pass Scheme pages on the Department for Transport website for more details.

Page last reviewed 25 Apr 2008