Thousands of people aged over 60 in England are calling for fairer access to free bus passes, and the Department for Transport (DfT) has now confirmed that local councils do have the power to lower the eligibility age.
This revelation comes as campaigners push for equality across the UK, where different nations offer different rules for concessionary travel.
What’s the Current Situation?
In England, free bus travel is part of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS), which grants access only to those who’ve reached State Pension age—currently 66.
This is different from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, where people aged 60 and above are already eligible.
The recent government update confirms that local authorities in England can choose to lower the age to 60 if they wish—though they would need to fund this from their own resources.
Key Facts & Figures
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current ENCTS eligibility age (England) | State Pension age (currently 66) |
| Eligibility in Scotland, Wales, NI | 60 years old |
| Local authority power confirmed | Yes – can offer lower age eligibility locally |
| National scheme annual cost | Approx. £700 million |
| Bus funding for 2025/26 | £955 million total (England, outside London) |
| Funding to local councils | £712 million |
| Petition support for 60+ eligibility | Over 101,000 signatures |
Local Authorities Now Have Flexibility
Transport officials have made it clear that local councils in England can choose to extend eligibility beyond their statutory obligations. This means any council can introduce a 60+ free bus pass policy, matching the systems in other parts of the UK.
However, this flexibility comes with a condition—no additional national funding will be provided for such changes. Councils must cover these costs using their existing budgets.
Why It Matters
The difference in eligibility ages across the UK has sparked widespread concern. People in England often feel disadvantaged compared to their counterparts in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, where free travel from age 60 has long been the standard.
As individuals get older, many drive less and rely on public transport for essential travel. Reducing the eligibility age for a free bus pass could help improve mobility, independence, and mental wellbeing for older residents.
Public Support is Growing
An online petition demanding change has already gained over 101,000 signatures, calling for the English Government to bring eligibility in line with other UK nations.
The campaign argues that raising the free bus pass age to 66 in England is outdated, especially as many older people face rising transport and living costs, and are less likely to drive long distances or own a car.
Government’s Financial Commitment
While the central government is not changing the statutory ENCTS age, it has confirmed £955 million in bus support funding for the financial year 2025/26. This includes:
- £243 million allocated to bus operators
- £712 million going directly to local authorities
This money can be used by councils to improve services or extend local concessions, including offering free travel to over 60s if they choose to do so.
A Patchwork of Benefits Across the UK
This announcement does not introduce a national change—but it empowers councils to make their own decisions based on local needs and resources. That means eligibility could vary between regions, with some councils offering concessions to over 60s, and others sticking to the standard age of 66.
Meanwhile, London residents already receive a 60+ Oyster Card, which grants free travel within the capital’s transport network. This has been a point of comparison for campaigners asking why similar access isn’t available outside London.
What Should You Do If You’re 60+?
If you are aged between 60 and 65 and live in England outside London, your eligibility for a free bus pass depends on your local council’s policies.
Here’s what you can do:
- Check your local authority website to see if any changes have been implemented.
- Contact your councillor or MP to ask about plans to lower the age.
- Support local petitions or campaigns advocating for better travel support for over 60s.
- Monitor updates as more councils consider using discretionary powers.
The Department for Transport has confirmed a significant policy clarification—local councils in England can now offer free bus passes to over 60s, even though the national eligibility remains at 66.
While this won’t immediately change access everywhere, it opens the door for regional flexibility and public pressure to influence local decisions.
With over £700 million allocated to councils for bus service improvements and a growing demand for transport equity, now is the time for communities to act.
If you’re over 60 and want free travel benefits like those in other parts of the UK, consider contacting your local council and voicing your support for change.
FAQs
Is the free bus pass age changing nationally in England?
No. The national age for the English bus pass remains at State Pension age (66). However, local councils now have the authority to reduce this age if they wish to fund it themselves.
Will the government fund the extra cost if councils lower the age?
No. Councils must use their existing budgets to fund any additional concessions beyond the national scheme.
Do Londoners still get free travel at 60?
Yes. People living in London can apply for a 60+ Oyster Card, which provides free public transport within London. This is separate from the national ENCTS scheme.