Starting 17 October 2025, England will see a sweeping change to its free bus pass system, marking one of the biggest updates to public transport benefits in nearly two decades.
The eligibility age for a bus pass will now be tied to the State Pension age (currently 66), replacing the long-standing rule that allowed free travel from age 60.
This reform aims to make the bus pass scheme more sustainable but will impact millions of older residents who rely on it daily.
Why the Bus Pass Rules Are Changing
The Department for Transport (DfT) says the update reflects a growing population of older citizens, rising life expectancy, and mounting pressure on local authority budgets. Free bus travel for over-60s, introduced in 2006, currently costs councils hundreds of millions of pounds each year.
By linking the free bus pass eligibility to the State Pension age, the government hopes to preserve the program for future generations while ensuring it remains fair.
Officials say the reform protects essential public transport services and directs funds toward those who need them most.
What’s Changing from 17 October 2025
Here’s a clear comparison of the new vs old bus pass rules across England:
| Eligibility Category | New Rule (from Oct 2025) | Old Rule (before Oct 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Age-based bus pass | Must have reached State Pension age (66) | Available from age 60 |
| Disability-based pass | Unchanged — remains available for those registered blind, partially sighted, or severely disabled | Same as before |
| Regional coverage | Applies to England only | Same |
| Existing pass holders | Can keep their current pass but renewals will follow new rules | Passes valid under previous age criteria |
If you turn 60 after October 2025, you will not be eligible for a free bus pass until you reach your State Pension age. However, existing pass holders will keep their current passes until renewal.
Who Will Be Most Affected
The biggest impact will be felt by those aged 60–65, who had expected automatic access to the bus pass.
- Early retirees may face higher travel expenses during the years before pension eligibility.
- Rural residents could struggle more, as buses are often their only mode of transport.
- Charities warn of increased isolation for older people who rely on buses for shopping, healthcare, and social contact.
Some councils may offer discounted local travel passes for people under pension age, depending on regional funding.
Bus Pass Rules Across the UK
While England will tie eligibility to the State Pension age, other UK nations are keeping their current systems:
| Nation | Qualifying Age | Status |
|---|---|---|
| England | State Pension age (≈ 66) | Changing from Oct 2025 |
| Scotland | 60 | No change announced |
| Wales | 60 | Remains unchanged |
| Northern Ireland | 60 | SmartPass system unaffected |
This means someone in England could wait up to six years longer for a bus pass than someone just across the Welsh border.
Financial and Social Implications
The reform is expected to save tens of millions of pounds annually by delaying eligibility. These savings could help councils maintain bus routes, improve accessibility, and fund rural connections.
However, critics argue that the policy may reduce bus ridership, hurting both local economies and social inclusion.
How to Check Your Bus Pass Eligibility
- Check your State Pension age using the official calculator.
- Review your local council’s bus pass policy, as some may offer transitional support.
- Apply early if you turn 60 before October 2025 to secure a pass under the current rules.
- Provide required documents (proof of age, residence, or disability).
Those with medical or mobility issues can still qualify for a disability-based bus pass, even if under pension age.
The bus pass reform from 17 October 2025 represents a major shift in England’s transport policy. Linking eligibility to the State Pension age may relieve financial pressure on councils but poses challenges for people aged 60–65.
If you’re nearing eligibility, apply early, check for local discounts, or verify disability-based eligibility.
This change marks a new chapter in the future of England’s bus pass system — one focused on sustainability but not without its social costs.
FAQs
Will people with an existing bus pass lose it?
No. Current holders won’t lose their pass immediately but must meet the new age rule when renewing.
Does this apply outside England?
No. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will continue offering free bus passes from age 60.
Can anyone under pension age still get a bus pass?
Yes. Those with qualifying disabilities or health conditions can still apply.