People in England face a longer wait for a free bus pass as the State Pension age rises from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028. The change affects those born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961, who will reach State Pension age at 66 years plus a specified number of additional months, depending on their date of birth.
Under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, eligibility for an older person's bus pass is linked to State Pension age. This means people affected by the increase may have to wait longer before they qualify for free bus travel.
Who is affected by the change
The Department for Transport has confirmed that eligibility for an older person's bus pass in England will change in line with the State Pension age increase. People born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 will reach State Pension age at between 66 years and one month and 66 years and 11 months. The phased increase began in April 2026 and will continue until March 2028.
When will you be eligible for a free bus pass?
The date you qualify depends on when you were born. According to the government's State Pension age timetable, the rules for those affected by the transition are as follows:
- People born between 6 April and 5 May 1960 will reach State Pension age at 66 years and one month.
- Those born between 6 September and 5 October 1960 will reach State Pension age at 66 years and six months.
- People born between 6 February and 5 March 1961 will reach State Pension age at 66 years and 11 months.
- Anyone born on or after 6 March 1961 will have a State Pension age of 67.
The first people affected by the increase began reaching the new qualifying ages in May 2026. The final group affected by the transition will reach State Pension age at 66 years and 11 months, before the age of 67 applies to subsequent birth cohorts.
How to check your eligibility
Residents can check their individual eligibility using the government's online calculator at Check your State Pension age – GOV.UK. The tool also provides information about when someone will qualify for free bus travel. Once eligible, residents can apply through their local council.
There is an important exception for London residents. People aged 60 and over may be able to travel free on eligible public transport within London using a 60+ London Oyster photocard, subject to the scheme's conditions.
When should you claim your State Pension?
The State Pension is not paid automatically. 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 in advance and ensure they understand how to claim their State Pension and any travel concessions available to them.
The government regularly reviews State Pension age arrangements, so anyone affected by the changes should check the latest official guidance before making plans.
