All young people and children aged 5-21 years can apply for a card to access the Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel Scheme, which began on 31 January 2022.

You will need a National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot NEC with the valid free travel entitlement with you whenever you want to take the bus – otherwise you’ll have to pay for your trip.

Eligibility

If you live in Scotland and are 5-21 years old you are eligible for a card giving you free bus travel. Children under 5 years old already travel for free on buses and don’t need a card. Applications for cards are now open.

Children and young people aged 5−21 years old will need a new or replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot National Entitlement Card (Young Scot NEC) before hopping on board. Previously issued cards will not allow access to the scheme.

Learn more about how you can apply for the scheme.

Using your card

Using your card is really easy. Make sure you have your card with you and then when you get on the bus, tell the bus driver where you are going, tap it on the electronic card reader to use it and the smart technology will do the rest.

If you are over 11 years old you can choose to apply for the Young Scot NEC. You can use it to save money with in-person and online discounts – with over 500 discounts in Scotland and over 100,000 deals across Europe. It also acts as proof of age. What’s more, you can collect points by taking part in activities and exchanging these for Rewards. Find out more at Young Scot’s website.

Remember
  • You will need a new or replacement NEC or Young Scot NEC to travel for free on the bus.
  • It’s your card and only your card – your friends can’t borrow it.
  • Take good care of it – if you forget it or it gets damaged and doesn’t work, you’ll need to pay the fare.
  • If your card has a photo, make sure it is up to date and it looks like you.
  • Always keep in touch with your family and friends to let them know where you are – it’s important to stay safe.

The main thing is to have your card with you whenever you want to take the bus – otherwise you’ll have to pay for your trip. 

Find out more 

First published: 25 February 2022

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