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Bus travel and bus passes

Buses are becoming increasingly accessible, and local councils offer free off-peak travel on local buses to disabled people living in their area.

Buses

New single-decker and double-decker buses are designed to be accessible to disabled people, including wheelchair users. Local councils must offer disabled people in their area free off-peak travel on local bus services; there is no charge for the bus pass.

Bus passes in England

Since 1 April 2008, everyone who is eligible for concessionary bus travel in England is entitled to free off-peak travel on all local buses anywhere in England. Local councils may offer further benefits to their residents, but these will only apply for travel in the local area, not everywhere.

Some bus passes allow travel in the morning rush hour; and in some areas, passes can also be used on trams, trains or taxis. Some also cover a wider area, such as a county or metropolitan area.

If you live on the border with Wales or Scotland, your local authority may also have travel arrangements with the neighbouring ones allowing you to use your bus pass in these areas as well.

Check what is covered before you travel.

Bus passes in Wales

In Wales, if you're entitled to a bus pass from your local authority, you can use it at any time of the day and are entitled to travel on local bus services in any council area.

Bus passes in Scotland

In Scotland, if you are entitled to a bus pass, you can use local bus and scheduled long-distance coach services at any time of the day. This scheme is run by Transport Scotland and you will need to apply for an Entitlement Card to travel for free.

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