Free bus travel in Scotland

If you are aged 5 to 21 and live in Scotland, you can apply for a National Entitlement Card. This card gives you free travel on local bus services and most scheduled coach services across Scotland.

You may also get discounted fares on trains and the Glasgow Subway within the Strathclyde area.

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) manages the card and application process.

Who can apply

You can apply if:

• you are aged 5 to 21
• you live in Scotland

How to apply

You can apply in different ways:

• online: visit getyournec.scot
• through a school: school‑aged children can apply via their school office
• in person: young adults can apply at East Kilbride, Hamilton, Lanark or Rutherglen libraries
• through SPT: contact SPT for help or paper forms

Once your application is approved, your card will be sent to your home address.

Your card

• children aged 5 to 10 do not need a photo
• people aged 11 to 21 must have a photo
• you can use free bus travel until your 22nd birthday

Make sure your photo is kept up to date for identification.

Request a replacement

If your card is lost or stolen:

• apply through your school office (if at school)
• apply in person at one of the libraries listed above
• request a replacement using our online form

SPT will cancel your old card to prevent misuse. Your new card will usually arrive within 5 to 10 days.

Update your details

If you move house, you must tell SPT so your details stay up to date.

You will need to provide proof of your new address.

Using your card

You can use your card:

• on buses by tapping or showing it to the driver
• on trains and the subway by showing it to staff

Always use your most recent card.

Important to know

• free travel does not apply to tours, excursions or premium‑fare services
• some rail and subway journeys have time or area restrictions

What to do next

• check your eligibility
• apply online or through your school or local library
• keep your details up to date

For full details on travel rules and restrictions, see the SPT and Transport Scotland websites.