Free bus pass eligibility delayed by State Pension age rise in England, Digi Mart USA News (England): Thousands of people in England face waiting longer to get a free bus pass as the State Pension age gradually rises from 66 to 67.
The change means people approaching retirement will no longer automatically qualify for a free older person’s bus pass when they turn 66. In England, eligibility for the concessionary travel pass is linked to the State Pension age, meaning anyone affected by the phased increase will also have to wait longer before they can apply.
The rise began on April 6, 2026, and is being introduced in monthly stages over two years. People born between April 6, 1960 and April 5, 1961 are affected by the transition, with their qualifying age increasing from 66 years and one month to 66 years and 11 months.
From March 6, 1961 onwards, people will have to wait until they are 67 to qualify.
The next stage of the increase affects people born between November 6 and December 5, 1960. They will have to wait until they are 66 years and eight months old before they can claim their free bus pass.
This means someone born on November 6, 1960 will not become eligible until July 6, 2027.
In England, you can apply for a free older person’s bus pass when you reach your State Pension age. That age is currently rising from 66 to 67, meaning people born from April 6, 1960 onwards will face a later qualifying date than previous generations.
The exact date you qualify depends on your birthday, and you can check your State Pension age using the Government’s online calculator.
The rules are different depending on where you live. In Wales, residents can apply for a free bus pass when they turn 60, meaning the State Pension age increase does not delay their eligibility.
In Scotland and Northern Ireland, older people’s bus passes are also available from the age of 60. People living in London and Merseyside can also get free travel on buses and other eligible transport from the age of 60, although the free travel for 60+ Oyster card holders is restricted to journeys within London.
People in England and Wales can use the Government’s bus pass application service. You can enter your postcode to find your local council’s application process and check whether you qualify for a pass sooner.
Some local authorities may offer additional concessions, so it is worth checking what is available in your area.
