Thousands of older people across England face a longer wait before receiving a free bus pass due to incoming government timetable updates. Under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, the qualifying age for an older person's travel pass is strictly tied to the State Pension age.
The official State Pension age is gradually rising from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028, directly pushing back bus pass entitlement dates. This phased transition means qualifying milestones will vary significantly depending on an individual's exact date of birth.
Who is affected by the transitional window
People born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 fall within the transitional window and must wait an additional period beyond their 66th birthday. For this cohort, qualifying ages will range anywhere from 66 years and one month up to 66 years and 11 months.
For instance, anyone born between 6 April and 5 May 1960 will reach eligibility at 66 years and one month. Those born between 6 September and 5 October 1960 will have to wait until they reach 66 years and six months.
Later cohorts face further delays
Later cohorts face further delays, with residents born between 6 February and 5 March 1961 qualifying at 66 years and 11 months. Anyone born on or after 6 March 1961 will not become eligible for an older person's pass until reaching the full age of 67.
Free travel passes are not issued automatically upon reaching the required age milestone. Once eligible, residents must submit an application directly through their local authority or council to receive their pass.
How to check your entitlement date
Residents are encouraged to use the official government State Pension age calculator online to check their specific entitlement dates. This online tool details both the date an individual reaches State Pension age and the earliest date they can claim concessionary travel.
Rules differ for those living in London, where residents can still travel free on local transport from age 60 using a 60+ London Oyster photocard. Elsewhere in England, local authorities maintain discretion over any additional concessionary schemes offered within their specific regions.
