The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed changes to the age at which people in England become eligible for a free bus pass. This follows the government's decision to increase the state pension age, which directly affects the gateway benefits, including the older person's bus pass under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme.
State pension age rise impacts bus pass eligibility
From 2026 to 2028, the qualifying age for a free bus pass will gradually increase. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has raised the state pension age, meaning those celebrating their 66th birthday during the transition period will have to wait longer to claim their state pension and, consequently, their free bus pass.
In a statement, the DfT explained: “Eligibility for an older person’s bus pass under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme is linked to State Pension age. This means eligibility will change in line with the increase in State Pension age from April. People born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 will qualify at 66 plus a specified number of months, depending on their date of birth.”
Timeline for the changes
Individuals born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 will reach state pension age at 66 years and a specified number of months, with eligibility dates ranging from 6 May 2026 to 5 March 2028. For those born on or after 6 March 1961, the state pension age increases to 67 starting from 6 April 2026.
The DfT has directed people to check their eligibility using the online tool on GOV.UK by entering their date of birth. The state pension is not paid automatically; individuals will receive an invitation to apply from The Pension Service approximately four months before reaching state pension age.
This change means that people in England will need to wait longer before they can claim a free bus pass, as the age requirement aligns with the rising state pension age.
