Free bus travel for Scots aged 5-21

Mother and son on a bus looking out of the window

A scheme offering free bus travel for all young people between the ages of five and 21 is now accepting applications. 

The policy was announced by the Scottish Government last year and aims to encourage more people to use public transport.

Only a few services, such as premium-fare night buses and sightseeing buses, will not be covered by the scheme.

Applications are now open for young people to receive a new or replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot NEC, which will entitle them to free bus travel in any part of Scotland. 

Given the current public health guidance around Covid-19, applications from young people travelling for essential purposes will be prioritised. 

The scheme begins on 31 January and will open up more generally at a later date.

To read more about the initiative or to apply, visit Transport Scotland’s website. 

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