People in England born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 will have to wait longer for a free older person's bus pass as the State Pension age rises from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028. Under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, eligibility for the pass is linked to State Pension age, meaning some residents will qualify later than previously expected.
Phased increase from April 2026 to March 2028
The phased increase began in April 2026 and will continue until March 2028. The first people affected started reaching the new qualifying ages in May 2026. Those born between 6 April and 5 May 1960 will reach State Pension age at 66 years and one month, while people born between 6 September and 5 October 1960 will reach it at 66 years and six months.
Anyone born between 6 February and 5 March 1961 will reach State Pension age at 66 years and 11 months. For people born on or after 6 March 1961, the State Pension age will be 67.
Checking eligibility and applying for the pass
Residents can check when they will reach State Pension age using the government's online calculator. Once eligible, they can apply for an older person's bus pass through their local council.
There is an exception for people living in London, where those aged 60 and over may be eligible for a 60+ London Oyster photocard. This allows free travel on eligible public transport within London, subject to the scheme's conditions.
State Pension claim and next steps
The State Pension is not paid automatically, and the Pension Service usually sends an invitation to claim around four months before someone reaches State Pension age. People approaching retirement should check their eligibility and the latest government guidance to understand when they can claim their pension and access travel concessions.
