Thousands of people across Scotland may be entitled to free bus travel but are unaware they qualify under the National Entitlement Card scheme. The concessionary travel programme, funded by the Scottish Government, provides free bus travel across Scotland for eligible groups, including older people, disabled people, and everyone under the age of 22.
Who Qualifies for Free Bus Travel?
People aged 60 and over can apply for free bus travel, while disabled people may also qualify depending on their circumstances or benefits received. More than 235,700 Blue Badge holders in Scotland may also be entitled to free bus journeys with the National Entitlement Card. Eligibility criteria is usually associated with, but not limited to, the level of award for a disability benefit such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Child Disability Payment (CDP), or Disability Living Allowance (DLA). People with a Blue Badge may also qualify.
How to Apply with a Blue Badge
Guidance on the Transport Scotland website states that applicants need only their Blue Badge, or their latest V11 vehicle licensing reminder from DVLA or DLA404 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), when applying for the National Entitlement Card. Older people receiving Attendance Allowance or Pension Age Disability Payment, those with substantial mobility difficulties, or those with certain mental health or cognitive conditions may also be entitled to the free travel scheme. Eligibility can depend on the type of award received and whether someone meets the Scottish Government’s qualifying rules.
Benefits of the Free Travel Scheme
The free travel scheme allows eligible cardholders to travel on most local and long-distance bus services in Scotland without paying a fare. Some disabled people may also qualify for a companion card, meaning another person can travel for free with them if support is needed during journeys. The companion element is designed for people who may need help because of visual impairments, learning disabilities, mobility problems, mental health conditions, or difficulty travelling alone safely.
How to Apply for the National Entitlement Card
Applications for the National Entitlement Card can usually be made through local councils or online using the Transport Scotland website. People applying may need to provide proof of identity, proof of address, a photograph, and evidence of qualifying benefits or disabilities. The National Entitlement Card can also be used for other services and discounts depending on the local authority area. Under-22s living in Scotland are also entitled to free bus travel through a separate Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme.
Purpose of the Concessionary Travel Scheme
Transport Scotland guidance states that the concessionary travel scheme is designed to help people stay connected, reduce travel costs, and improve access to work, healthcare, shopping, and social activities.
Free Train Travel Boost for Concession Card Holders
Thousands of concession card holders in Scotland can now take a companion on train journeys for free after the Scottish Government confirmed a popular pilot scheme became a permanent feature. Passengers who hold an Eye +1 National Entitlement Card only can travel with a companion at no extra cost on ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper services across the country. The move follows a year-long trial which showed strong demand among eligible passengers who rely on assistance when travelling by rail. The change will benefit around 8,000 people across Scotland who hold the specialist concession card for blind and partially sighted passengers. The permanent policy came into force in April and applies to eligible concession card holders travelling with a companion on rail services across Scotland.
