Free Bus Travel for under 22s
The Scottish Government’s Under 22s Free Bus Travel scheme launched on Monday 31 January, which enables all those aged 21 and under to benefit from free bus travel across Scotland.
If you are aged 5-21 years old and live in Scotland then you are eligible for free bus travel, no matter your nationality.
The scheme will give you free travel on any bus in any part of Scotland on registered bus services. You can travel on buses outside the area you live in using a National Entitlement Card. Only a few services, such as premium-fare night buses and City Sightseeing buses, will not accept the card. Contact the bus company before you travel if you are unsure.
How do I access free bus travel?
In order to travel by bus for free, you will need a new or replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot National Entitlement Card (Young Scot NEC). The application for young people who are aged 16-21 years old must be made by the young person. When applying, you will need to provide proof of identity (name and age) and proof of address. The photograph used on the application for the card must look like you.
You can now apply for a new or replacement card at GETYOURNEC.SCOT.
Alternatively, you can apply in person at your local council office. Please contact your local council for more information.
Young Scot NEC (that includes the Young Scot, EYCA and PASS logos) also provides access to a number of other services, experiences, rewards and discounts. You can find further details of these additional benefits on Young Scot's website.
I've had a Young Scot card before
For NEC and Young Scot NEC holders, the application process for a replacement is easier. All you need to do is quote your 16-digit card number found on the front of the card. Your existing NEC or Young Scot NEC can also be used as proof of identity.
I've never had a Young Scot card before
You may find it useful if you’re applying online to download or look out the documents as outlined that you will need. You can apply using a smartphone/tablet or a computer depending on your preference, and if you don't have scanned copies of your documents, you can take photos of your proofs during the application process using a smartphone/tablet.