Concessionary Travel
Enjoy free bus travel forever with a Senior Bus Pass!
Whether you're catching up with old friends at Judge's Lodging, or spending time with the grandkids at Rowntree Park, if you're eligible for a state pension, you qualify for free bus travel across York and England through the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.
With a Senior Bus Pass, you can enjoy unlimited free bus rides every weekday from 9:00am onwards, all day on weekends and public holidays too. You could meet up with friends for a coffee or catch up with your family, head to the shops to treat yourself or explore some of the local museums - you can do more of what you love whilst spending less.
So what are you waiting for? Start making memories to last a lifetime with your free Senior Bus Pass.
Here's what the people of York had to say about Free Bus Travel Forever...
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our pages:
Got a destination in mind but not sure what bus to catch?
Use our online Journey Planner by clicking here or download the First Bus App by clicking here.
Using a Concessionary Travel Pass:
- If you are of state pensionable age and over, or registered disabled, and hold a valid Concessionary Travel Pass you are entitled to free travel on main network buses after 9:00am Monday to Friday and all day weekends and Bank Holidays.
- Before 9:00am Monday-Friday the full adult fare is payable.
Blind Pass Holders
- If you hold a disabled pass showing the 'Blind' symbol you are entitled to free travel on our buses in York at all times.
York Park and Ride
- English National Concessionary Travel Passes are also valid for free travel on Park & Ride services in York.
- A £1.30 fare applies if you are boarding from one of our six Park & Ride sites. Three children age 16 and under can travel for free when you board at the site.
FAQs - Senior Bus Pass
Am I eligible?
Anyone who qualifies for a state pension and lives in York can apply for a Senior Bus Pass from City of York Council. The age when you qualify for a state pension is not the same for everyone and depends on the year you were born. Check your state pension age to see when you'll be eligible for free bus travel.
How do I apply for my pass?
The Senior Bus Pass is issued by City of York Council. If you’re eligible you can apply for your pass on their website here.
How do I use my pass?
Simply tap, beep, then take a seat!
1. Tap your pass on to the ticket machine as you board.
2. Wait for the beep from the ticket machine.
3. Take a seat on the bus.
Enjoy FREE bus travel forever.
What if my pass doesn't work?
You can still travel - your driver will record your pass manually and issue you with a ticket for your journey.
What if my pass needs to be replaced?
If your pass is due to expire and your address has not changed, you will automatically receive a new pass in the post a week before your expiry date.
If your address has changed or you haven't received your new pass one week before your old one expires, you will need to contact the Senior Bus Pass team.
If you have lost your pass, you should contact your card issuer to arrange for a replacement pass. A £10 charge applies to replace a lost pass.
In York, you can contact the Senior Bus Pass team on 01904 551670 or by emailing buspass@york.gov.uk