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How to Apply for a Disabled Bus Pass and Enjoy the Benefits of Accessible Travel
Written by
Georgina, Founder of Purpl
Published on
December 20, 2024
Discounted or Free Bus Travel for Disabled People in the UK
Hi, I’m Georgina, founder of Purpl Disabled Discounts. I understand the financial challenges that come with living with a disability and I am on a mission to let everyone know all about not only disability benefits, but the extra support that is available to help you save money. All alongside some amazing discounts and deals that we create here at Purpl with all your favourite brands.
If you are a disabled person in the UK, getting around by bus can be a lot easier and more affordable with a disabled bus pass. This pass gives you free or discounted bus travel and is designed to help you stay connected to the places and people that matter most. Whether you need it for work, errands, or leisure, a bus pass can make a big difference in your daily life. In this guide, I will explain how to apply, what evidence is required, and the benefits you can enjoy once you have your pass.
In This Article
- What is a Disabled Bus Pass?
- Who is Eligible for a Disabled Bus Pass?
- How do you Apply for a Disabled Bus Pass?
- Disabled Bus Passes in Scotland
- Disabled Bus Passes in Wales
- Disabled Bus Passes in Northern Ireland
- What are the Benefits of a Disabled Bus Pass?
- Why Is a Disabled Bus Pass Worth Having?
- Tips for Using Your Disabled Bus Pass
- How to Renew Your Bus Pass
- Why You Should Apply Today
- Can My Carer Get a Free Bus Pass?
- Companion Bus Pass in N. Ireland, Wales and Scotland?
- Disabled Bus Pass Information
- Reduced Coach Fares with Disabled Coachcard
- Subsidised Taxi Fares
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Disabled Bus Pass?
A Disabled Bus Pass is part of the government’s concessionary travel scheme and provides free or reduced travel on buses for individuals with qualifying disabilities. Available across the UK, it helps ensure that everyone has access to affordable and convenient public transport, regardless of their physical, sensory, or mental health needs. Depending on your local council, you may also be eligible for additional benefits like free travel at certain times or on other forms of public transport.
Who is Eligible for a Disabled Bus Pass?
To qualify for a disabled bus pass, you need to have a disability that meets specific criteria. These include:
- Being blind or partially sighted
- Being deaf or unable to speak
- Having a disability that makes walking difficult
- Being without the use of both arms
- Having a learning disability
- Being refused a driving licence on medical grounds
It is important to note that all councils have different eligibility requirements, so check your local council website and search disabled persons bus pass or travel card to find out if you are eligible.
Did you know most councils offer a free disabled bus pass if you are disabled.
Georgina’s Top Disability Savings Tips
How do you Apply for a Disabled Bus Pass?
The application process for a disabled bus pass is straightforward, but the steps and requirements can vary slightly depending on where you live. Here is how to apply:
Gather Your Evidence
You will need to provide proof of your eligibility as part of the application. Accepted evidence includes:
- A Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI) or BD8 form for visual impairments.
- Audiology reports or a letter from a hearing specialist if you are deaf.
- A letter from your GP or consultant confirming your mobility challenges or medical condition.
- Proof of receiving benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Attendance Allowance if they relate to your disability.
- A letter from the DVLA confirming you are not fit to drive for medical reasons.
Apply Through Your Local Council
Applications for the disabled bus pass are handled by your local council, so you will need to check their website for the specific process in your area. Many councils allow you to apply online, but you may also be able to apply in person at your local library, travel centre, or council office.
Submit Your Application
Once you have completed the application form and gathered your evidence, you can submit your application. If applying online, you may need to upload scanned copies of your documents. For in-person or postal applications, ensure you include photocopies rather than original documents.
Wait for Your Disabled Bus Pass
After your application has been approved, your disabled bus pass will be sent to you by post. Processing times vary by council, so it’s worth applying early if you know you will need it soon.
There are different rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – so make sure you are following the advice for your country.
Georgina’s Top Disability Savings Tips
How to Apply for a Disabled Bus Pass in Scotland
For Scotland, if you are aged over 5 and meet on of the criteria below you can apply for a National Entitlement card for free bus travel across Scotland:
- get a qualifying benefit
- have a Blue Badge
- are deaf
- are visually impaired
- cannot drive due to a medical condition
- have a mental health condition or learning disability and need to travel to appointments
- have a terminal illness
- have a progressive degenerative condition
- have lost one of more limbs
- are an injured veteran
- get war pensioner mobility supplement
Read more about who can apply on the Transport Scotland website.
You can apply for a bus pass online at getyournec.scot or through your local council. How you can apply and how long it will take depends on each council. Your council will tell you the best way to apply in your area. Visit the Transport Scotland website to find the phone number, email address and website for your council.
How to Apply for a Disabled Bus Pass in Wales
For Wales, you may be able to get a Concessionary Travel card to enable you to travel for free on buses across Wales. To be eligible you must meet one of the following criteria
- disabled
- aged 60 or over
- injured service personnel
If your primary address is in Wales and you’re either aged 60 and over or meet the Government’s disability eligibility criteria, you can travel for free on most bus services in Wales and the borders and get discounted or free travel on many rail services. Click to apply for a disabled bus pass from Transport for Wales.
How to Apply for a Disabled Bus Pass Northern Ireland
It’s a little more complex in Northern Ireland as they have different levels for free travel. If you fit the criteria you will either be eligible for a free ‘Smart Pass’ which gives you free bus travel or a ‘Half Fare Smart Pass’ which will give you discounted travel. Receiving the care component of PIP by itself does not automatically make you eligible for a SmartPass.
To receive the Smart Pass you need to be in one of the following groups:
To receive the Half Fare Smart Pass you need to be in one of the groups listed below. You can click on each link to see if you are eligible and how to apply:
- People who get the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Those who have had a driving licence refused or revoked on medical grounds
- People who have a learning disability
- People who are partially-sighted
For more information on Smart Passes, you can email: [email protected] or visit the NI Direct main website.
What are the Benefits of a Disabled Bus Pass?
A disabled bus pass is more than just a card; it is a gateway to independence and freedom. Here are the main benefits:
- Free or Discounted Bus Travel
In most parts of the UK, a disabled bus pass entitles you to free off-peak travel on local bus services. In some areas, it can also be used for other modes of transport, such as trams or trains. - Independence and Mobility
Having a bus pass means you can get where you need to go without worrying about transport costs, allowing you to live more independently and stay connected to your community. - Additional Companion Benefits
Some councils offer companion passes for individuals who require assistance when travelling. This means your carer or a friend can travel with you for free or at a discounted rate. - Environmental Benefits
Using public transport helps reduce your carbon footprint, so you are contributing to a greener planet while enjoying the convenience of accessible travel.
Why is a Disabled Bus Pass Worth Having?
A disabled bus pass is about more than just saving money. It gives you the freedom to go where you need to, whether it is attending medical appointments, visiting loved ones, or enjoying a day out. It can help you stay active and social while giving you peace of mind that transport will always be affordable and accessible.
Tips for Using Your Disabled Bus Pass
Once you have your bus pass, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the rules in your area. Most passes are valid for free off-peak travel, which typically means you can use them after 9:30 am on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays. Some councils offer extended benefits, so check what is available to you.
If your pass includes a companion discount, don’t forget to let the bus driver know when boarding so your companion can travel with you at no cost.
How to Renew Your Bus Pass
Most disabled bus passes are valid for a set period, usually one to five years, depending on your council’s policy. You will need to renew your pass before it expires by providing updated evidence of your eligibility. Renewals can often be done online or by post. Most councils will send you a reminder but it’s worth keeping a note in your diary, you’d be surprised at how many expired documents we see here at Purpl Disabled Discounts.
Why You Should Apply Today
If you haven’t applied for a disabled bus pass yet, there has never been a better time to do so. With the cost of living rising, having access to free or discounted travel can make a big difference to your budget. More importantly, it gives you the freedom and confidence to travel independently and stay connected to the people and places that matter most.
For more information about mobility discounts and offers for disabled people, visit Purpl’s guides to discover more information to help you navigate life as a disabled person within the UK. Together, we can make everyday life more affordable and inclusive for everyone.
Can My Carer Get a Free Bus Pass?
In England, certain local authorities offer a companion bus pass or similar schemes that allow a carer or companion to travel for free or at a discounted rate when accompanying a disabled person who cannot travel alone. Eligibility criteria and availability of such passes will vary depending on the local council.
It’s important to note that the companion entitlement is linked to the disabled person’s bus pass; the companion cannot use the pass independently. The companion does not receive a separate pass but is permitted to travel for free or at a discounted rate only when accompanying the pass holder.
Since policies differ across regions, it’s advisable to contact your local council or visit their official website to obtain specific information about companion bus pass schemes in your area. They can provide details on eligibility requirements, the application process, and any necessary documentation.
Companion Bus Passes in N. Ireland, Wales and Scotland
In the UK, the availability of companion bus passes for carers or companions of disabled individuals varies across Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. Here’s an overview of the provisions in each region:
Scotland
Scotland offers a companion entitlement on the National Entitlement Card (NEC) for individuals who cannot travel alone due to a disability. The card displays a ‘C+1’ logo, indicating that a companion can travel for free when accompanying the cardholder. Eligibility criteria include receiving certain benefits such as Attendance Allowance, the standard or enhanced rate of the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or being registered as blind or severely sight impaired. The companion cannot use the card independently; they must be traveling with the cardholder.
Wales
In Wales, the Concessionary Travel Scheme provides free bus travel for disabled individuals. Some local authorities may offer a companion pass for those who require assistance while traveling. Eligibility and availability can vary, so it’s recommended to contact your local council for specific information regarding companion passes.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland’s concessionary travel Smart Pass scheme offers free travel for individuals aged 60 or over and for those with disabilities. However, there is no widespread provision for companion passes. Some local councils may have their own schemes, so it’s advisable to check with your local council for details.
Since policies and availability of companion passes can vary by region and local authority, it’s best to contact your local council or visit their official website to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding companion bus passes in your area.
Disabled Bus Pass Information
There is a lot of information in this guide, and we understand how overwhelming it can feel, the best place to start with concessionary bus passes for disabled people is with your local council. Head to their website and search for ‘Disabled Travel’, if you don’t know how to find your local council information, you can search it on the government website here with your postcode. You can also speak to Citizens Advice who can offer help and information on lots of different topics which may benefit you when living with a disability.
Reduced Coach Travel Costs
National Express have a Disabled Coachcard that gives you 1/3 off the price of coach tickets. The Disabled Coachcard is £15, Plus £3 postage and packaging. When you book a ticket make sure you check the Coachcard box and don’t forget to carry your Coachcard with you whenever you travel, along with your ticket.
- Save 1/3 on Standard and Fully Flexible fares, even at peak times.
- Enjoy £15 mid-week day returns on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
To apply, head to the National Express website here.
Subsidised Taxi Fares
Your local authority might offer a scheme to help with taxi costs if you have a disability. The type of support you can get depends on where you live. Different councils or authorities may offer different benefits, so it’s important to check with them.
To find out whether your council offers a taxi scheme and whether you would be eligible for it, contact your local authority.
In London, this is called the TaxiCard and is a subsidised service providing Black Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles to those who might find it difficult or impossible to access other modes of transport. Taxi card applications vary by borough but you can go to the London Councils website for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my disabled bus pass outside my local area?
This will depend on the type of pass you hold and the policies in the places you are travelling to and from.
England
In England, disabled bus pass holders can generally use their passes for free travel during off-peak hours on local buses across England. However, some regions may offer extended hours, so it’s worth checking with the local council.
Scotland
In Scotland, it cannot be used for cross-border travel to England unless it’s part of a special route.
Wales
In Wales, they can typically be used throughout Wales for free travel, but not within England unless specified by the issuing council.
Northern Ireland
The SmartPass allows free travel on most buses and trains within Northern Ireland, but it is not usually valid in the rest of the UK.
Cross-Border Travel
If you’re travelling across borders (e.g. from England to Scotland or Wales), your disabled bus pass may not cover the journey unless specific arrangements are in place. Some councils will offer passes that are valid on cross-border services, but this is not universal so please check before you travel.
Are there time restrictions on when I can use my disabled bus pass?
For Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland there are no time restrictions on using your disabled bus pass, however for England you can only use your disabled bus pass to travel for free within off-peak hours: 9:30 am to 11:00 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays. Some councils may allow you to travel for free during peak hours, so it’s worth checking. Some local authorities in England may offer extended hours, particularly if you need to travel to a medical appointment or if you are in a rural area with limited services.
How long is a disabled bus pass valid for?
It will depend on your issuing authority and your circumstances, however most disabled bus passes tend to be valid for 3-5 years. If you have a temporary disability it may be issued for a shorter period depending on your condition and the supporting evidence.
How do I renew my disabled bus pass?
Make sure you renew it before it expires, and you will most likely have to provide your medical evidence again. Most local councils often send reminders, but it’s good to make a note of the expiration date in your diary. You’d be surprised at how many expired documents we receive at Purpl.
I’ve lost my disabled bus pass what do I do?
It happens to us all, don’t worry if your pass is lost or stolen, you can request a replacement, which will generally retain the original expiry date. Contact your local council or transport authority for specific details about how to get a replacement.
Related Articles for Disabled Benefits and Savings
Understanding Car Tax Discounts for Disabled People
Benefits of the Disabled Person’s Railcard
Personal Independence Payments (PIP) – Information and How to Apply Guide
