Free bus travel in Scotland

If you live in Scotland and have a qualifying disability, you may be able to apply for a National Entitlement Card. This card gives you free bus travel and discounted travel on trains and the subway.

You can travel for free on local bus services and most scheduled coach services at any time. You may also get reduced 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 live in Scotland
• you are aged 5 or over
• you meet the disability eligibility criteria

How to apply

You can apply online at getyournec.scot/nec or through SPT.

You will need to provide:

• a recent passport-style photo
• proof of your age, such as a passport or driving licence
• proof of your disability from the last 12 months
• proof of your address from the last 3 months

Once approved, your card will be sent to you by post.

For help or questions, contact SPT:

• phone: 0141 333 3211
• email: free.bus@spt.co.uk

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. Older cards will not work.

Understanding your card

Symbols on your card show what you are entitled to:

• C symbol – free bus travel across Scotland
• +1 symbol – a companion can travel free with you
• eye symbol – extra travel rights for blind or partially sighted people
• L symbol – additional local concessions may apply

Renewals and changes

Your card will have an expiry date. SPT usually contacts you before it runs out.

You should:

• contact SPT if your card is due to expire
• tell SPT if you move house so your details stay up to date

What to do next

• check if you are eligible
• apply online at getyournec.scot
• contact SPT if you need help

You can find full details of the scheme and any travel restrictions on the SPT and Transport Scotland websites.