The National Entitlement Card [opens in a new window] is a smartcard scheme run as a partnership between the Scottish Government, Scotland's local councils and others. This card allows free bus travel to those who are eligible.
People who live in the area covered by the Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Scheme are also able to use their card to get cheaper fares on First ScotRail trains and the Glasgow Subway.
Older people 60+ and people with a disability
If you are over 60 or have a disability you are entitled to free bus travel in Scotland.
HOW TO APPLY
Step by step videos showing you how to apply are available:
How to apply for 60+ concessionary travel [opens in a new window]
How to apply for disabled concessionary travel [opens in a new window]
There are a number of ways to apply for the free bus travel scheme:
- GETYOURNEC.SCOT [opens in a new window]
- Your nearest Post Office
- If you already have a MyAccount -opens in a new window], you can log into it and apply through it
- For those who cannot apply online, we can help you to complete the application form by appointment at any of our Community Hubs.
Please note revised opening times are currently in place at our Community Hubs. For further information call 0300 123 4510.
Additional information on what information you’ll need for your application is available at SPT Concession [opens in a new window].
Young Person’s Free Bus Travel Scheme
All 5-21 year olds living in Scotland are now eligible for free bus travel in any part of Scotland.
*Please note, active cards are those received since 2016. They will have a long number next to the ITSO logo and if there’s a date of birth shown, it will be highlighted with a pink strip.
Parents or Guardians must provide approval for children aged 5-15 to access the scheme by applying on their behalf, whereas 16-21 year olds can apply themselves.
HOW TO APPLY
Step by step videos showing you how to apply are available:
How to apply for Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel on behalf of your child [opens in a new window]
How to apply for Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel on behalf of your child under 16 who already has a car [opens in a new window]
How to apply for Young Persons Free Bus Travel if you’re over 16 [opens in a new window]
There are a number of ways to apply for the free bus travel scheme:
- GETYOURNEC.SCOY [opens in a new window]
- Parentsportal.scot (if this is available in your child’s school and they are aged 5-11)
- Transport Scot Pass Collect App [opens in a new window] if you’re aged 16 to 21 and already have an active NEC or Young Scot NEC
- For those who cannot apply online, we can help you to complete the application form by appointment at any of our Community Hubs. Please note revised opening times are currently in place at our Community Hubs. For further information use the enquiry form below or call 0300 123 4510.
*Please note, only a few services such as premium-fare night buses and City Sightseeing buses will not accept the cards – please contact the bus company before you travel if you are unsure.
Travellers are asked to follow the latest Scottish Government COVID-19 guidance [opens in a new window] at all times so everyone can travel safely on buses
Other useful links:
- Transport Scotland website [opens in a new window] has additional information.
- Young Scot [opens in a new window] provides full details of the additional benefits of the Young Scot card