The next increase in the qualifying age for a free bus pass in England has been confirmed, with eligibility now tied to the ongoing rise in State Pension age from 66 to 67. The Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed to The Express that the change affects anyone born from April 6, 1960, onwards, though the exact impact depends on date of birth.
How the age increase works
The first phase of the State Pension age increase began on April 6, the start of the new tax year, and is being implemented in phases, with the process due to complete in 2028. Older adults who turn 66 during this two-year transitional period will not officially reach State Pension age until they are 66 plus a specified number of months, depending on their birth date.
This delay also affects eligibility for other State Pension age-related benefits, including a free bus pass in England. The law change means you now need to be 66 plus a specified number of months before becoming entitled to the pass.
Eligibility delays by birth date
Eligibility becomes further delayed the later your 66th birthday falls, increasing by one month each time. Some people will be only a month or two away from turning 67 by the time they can get their free bus pass.
A DfT spokesperson told The Express: “Eligibility for an older person’s bus pass under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme is linked to State Pension age. This means eligibility will change in line with the increase in State Pension age from April.
“People born between April 6, 1960 and March 5, 1961 will qualify at 66 plus a specified number of months, depending on their date of birth.
“There is a tool to check the date people become eligible for a bus pass at Check your State Pension age - GOV.UK, by entering their date of birth.”
Phases and London alternatives
So far, six phases of the DWP timetable for the State Pension age increase have fully completed, and the seventh phase, affecting those born between October 6, 1960 and November 5, 1960, is currently underway. Another six phases remain until the increase from 66 to 67 is complete.
The DWP has confirmed the following State Pension age increases by birth date, which will see people become eligible for both their State Pension and free bus pass at age 66 plus a specified number of months: October 6, 1960 – November 5, 1960: 66 years and 7 months; November 6, 1960 – December 5, 1960: 66 years and 8 months; December 6, 1960 – January 5, 1961: 66 years and 9 months; January 6, 1961 – February 5, 1961: 66 years and 10 months; February 6, 1961 – March 5, 1961: 66 years and 11 months; March 6, 1961 – April 5, 1977: 67 years.
London borough residents can apply for a 60+ London Oyster photocard, allowing free travel on bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground and most National Rail lines in the capital. It costs a £36 administration fee plus an £18.50 annual address eligibility check fee, and once you reach State Pension age, you can switch to the free Older Person’s Freedom Pass.
