travel card london over 60

London Tube Fares – Senior Citizen Discounts For Over 60s

• Do senior citizens get free tube fares?
• Are senior bus passes valid on the train?
• Freedom Pass
• Freedom Pass travel times
• How to get a Freedom Pass
• 60+ Oyster photocard
• 60+ Oyster photocard travel times
• How to get a 60+ Oyster photocard

Can tourists get a 60+ Oyster card?

• Senior Railcard
• Senior Railcard travel times
• Are Senior Railcards valid on the tube?
• How to get a Senior Railcard

Do seniors travel for free on the tube?

UK senior citizens aged over 60, who live in a London borough, are entitled to free travel on the London Underground if they have one of the senior passes described below.

UK senior citizens who don’t live in London, and all foreign tourists, have to pay a normal adult fare .

Senior Railcards are available to everyone over 60, but don’t apply to all tube journeys ( see below ).

Can you use an OAP bus pass on the train?

If your OAP bus pass was issued in England, but by a non-London council, then it will only work on the bus – see senior bus fares for more information. They do not work on the London Underground.

If your OAP pass was issued by a London council (called a Freedom Pass ) then it will work on both.

What is a Freedom Pass?

A Freedom Pass (also known as an Older Persons Freedom Pass ) offers free travel to senior citizens if their principal home is in London, and they’re old enough to receive a woman’s state pension (regardless of whether they’re a man or woman).

A Freedom Pass is the size of a credit card and works in exactly the same way as an Oyster card – you simply tap it down on the big yellow Oyster readers that you find at the front of all TFL buses, and by the ticket barriers at London Underground stations.

Where can you use a Freedom Pass?

A Freedom Pass can be used on TFL buses , the London Underground , London Overground, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), Elizabeth Line, London trams, and in standard class on most National Rail trains within London. But it is not valid on the Gatwick Express, Heathrow Express, or Southeastern high speed services to/from St Pancras and Stratford International. A complete list of all the National Rail routes which are excluded can be found on their map at londoncouncils.gov.uk .

Pensioners can also benefit from a senior discount rate on the Uber Thames Clipper and IFS Cloud Cable Car .

The Freedom Pass is also part of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) – denoted by the red rose symbol on the front. This entitles you to free bus travel on local services the length and breadth of England (but off-peak hours only – usually 9.30 AM to 11 PM Mon-Fri and all day Sat-Sun). And it only works with local bus services – not coaches, trams, trains, or any other form of public transport outside London. And it doesn’t work in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland either.

What are the time restrictions on a Freedom Pass?

A Freedom Pass does have some time restrictions. Senior citizens can only travel for free outside of the morning peak period (4.30 AM to 9 AM, Monday to Friday). If you need to travel before 9 AM then you’ll have to pay a regular tube fare . There are no time restrictions at the weekend.

Bear in mind that National Rail trains have a different peak period to London Underground tube trains. For most National Rail trains within London you need to travel after 9.30 AM Monday to Friday, or any time during the weekend, but you should check before you travel to be sure.

How can you apply for a Freedom Pass?

Pensioners can apply for a Freedom Pass online at londoncouncils.gov.uk .

In order to qualify for a pass you need to be old enough to receive a woman’s state pension (regardless of whether you’re a man or woman). If you’re not sure whether you meet the age criteria then you can enter your date of birth into their eligibility calculator .

You will also need to provide an active email address, a passport-style photograph, proof of age, and proof of your address within a London borough. (Note: If you work inside London but live outside London then you will not be eligible for a pass.)

Suitable documents to prove your age include a birth certificate, passport, driving licence or medical card. Documents which can prove your address include a recent council tax bill, utility bill or television licence. Bank or building society statements are not accepted.

What is a 60+ London Oyster photocard?

A 60+ London Oyster Photocard is aimed at people aged over-60 who’s principal living address is in London, but are not yet old enough to qualify for a Freedom Pass .

These passes are used in exactly the same way as an Oyster card . All you have to do is tap it down on the big yellow Oyster readers that you find at the front of all the buses, or by the London Underground ticket barriers.

Where can you use a 60+ Oyster photocard?

A 60+ London Oyster Photocard gives senior citizens free travel on London buses , the London Underground , London Overground, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), Elizabeth Line (excluding the stretch between West Drayton and Reading), trams, and most of the National Rail trains within London. It does not work with any transport services outside of London.

Pensioners also get concessions on the Uber Thames Clipper and IFS Cloud Cable Car .

What are the time restrictions on a 60+ London Oyster photocard?

A 60+ London Oyster Photocard does have some time restrictions. Free bus and tube travel only applies after 9 AM (Monday-Friday) or any time during the weekend . If you need to travel before 9 AM then you’ll have to pay a normal bus and tube fare .

For most of the National Rail trains within London you need to travel after 9.30 AM (Monday-Friday) or any time during the weekend, but the timings differ between routes. Check this map to be sure: tfl.gov.uk/​60-plus-london-free-travel-national-rail-map.pdf .

Note: Unlike a normal Oyster card, it’s not possible to load any extra credit onto a 60+ London Oyster Photocard . So if you need to pay a normal fare then you’ll have to purchase a completely separate ticket.

How do you apply for a 60+ Oyster photocard?

Senior citizens can apply for a 60+ London Oyster photocard two weeks before their 60th birthday at tfl.gov.uk/​fares/​free-and-discounted-travel .

The photocard costs £20 and you need to provide them with an active email address, a valid UK driving licence or digital image of your machine-readable passport (which includes your photo, personal details and passport number), a digital passport-style photo of yourself, plus a debit or credit card that is registered to your home address to prove you live in a London borough. You can also provide them with proof of address by showing them a recent utility bill or credit statement from your bank or building society.

If you can’t provide some of the items then the website gives you the option of printing off a verification letter which you can take into your local Post Office.

Every year you have the pass you have to pay an extra £10 fee and provide them with proof of address all over again.

And once you reach the state pension age you will need to bin the card and apply for a Freedom Pass instead. A Freedom Pass offers the same discounts, but is supplied by your local council rather than TFL.

No. Senior citizens from abroad cannot apply for any kind of senior pass. Only pensioners who live in London can get free travel on the tube.

What is a Senior Railcard?

A Senior Railcard is aimed at people aged over 60 and who are planning on using National Rail trains the length and breadth of Great Britain, and maybe an Oyster card on the London Underground.

For £30 a year, or £70 for three years, the discount pass will grant you a ⅓-off a wide range of National Rail train tickets and off-peak Oyster fares .

The average saving made by each pensioner over the course of a year is £98.

Can you use a Senior Railcard on the London Underground?

You can use a Senior Railcard on the London underground, but it works best on National Rail trains, where it grants you a 33% discount on Standard, First Class Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares. You can also use it on the Gatwick Express, Heathrow Express and Stansted Express.

It’s not quite as useful on the tube because it only applies to single journeys and the off-peak daily cap on Oyster . It does not apply to peak time journeys. And it doesn’t apply to cash fares or contactless fares either.

Off-peak on the London Underground is outside the hours of 6.30 AM-9.30 AM, and 4 PM-7 PM (Monday to Friday). Weekends and bank holidays are always classed as off-peak.

You can also get 33% knocked-off the cost of an Anytime 1-Day Travelcard – but only for zones 1-9 (which is more than most people will need), and only if it’s bought as part of a longer National Rail journey into London from outside London (subject to a minimum fare of £20.30).

Does the Senior Railcard have time restrictions?

Yes . The Senior Railcard is not valid for peak-time journeys within London, or morning peak-time journeys within the South East Network area.

Peak time on the London Underground is any journey that starts between 6.30 AM-9.30 AM, or 4 PM-7 PM (Monday to Friday).

The morning peak period for National Rail trains is a bit more complicated because it varies between routes, so it’s best to check your journey with the ticket office staff before buying your railcard.

Where can you buy a Senior Railcard?

Senior Railcards can be bought online at railcard.co.uk . You can also get them from a manned ticket window at a National Rail station. The National Rail stations in central London are Blackfriars , Cannon Street , Charing Cross , Euston , Farringdon , King’s Cross St Pancras , Liverpool Street , London Bridge , Marylebone , Paddington , Vauxhall , Victoria and Waterloo .

Bear in mind that you will have to provide them with proof of eligibility (like a UK driving licence, passport, national identity card or birth certificate), and a passport-size photo.

Senior Railcards come in two different versions: plastic and digital. Plastic ones will be sent through the post, whereas digital ones come with a Railcard app which can be downloaded on up to two different devices (like your mobile phone). It can also be loaded straight onto an existing Oyster card .

Your comments and questions

Suzy Are you able to use a senior rail card when paying with contactless

Staff Hi Suzy. No, you can load a senior rail card onto an Oyster card, but you can’t load it onto your bank card, so it doesn’t work with contactless fares.

Alan S Morgan I have a 60+ Oyster card. I shall be travelling before 9.30am. How can I update my card?

Staff Hi Alan. They've changed the times now so you can travel after 9 AM instead of 9.30 AM, but if that is still too late then you'll just have to pay a normal fare. The easiest way would be to use your contactless bank card.

ELSPETH Hello. On my Oyster card it includes senior rail discount would I get this discount on a contactless card please

Staff Hi Elspeth. Unfortunately not, because a contactless card is just your normal everyday bank card. There's no way to load a railcard onto it.

Ann Winder I have an OAP bus pass can i use it on the tube

Staff Hi Ann, if you mean a London Freedom Pass then yes, but if it was issued by a council outside London then no. If it was issued by an English council and has a red rose symbol on it then you can only use it on the buses

MAL Are cheaper fares for OAPs on the underground only available to Londoners or UK pensioners please? I am a pensioner from Wales

Staff Hi Mal. That's right, yes. You need to get hold of a Freedom Pass or 60+ Oyster card, but they're only available to people who live in London. National bus passes work on London's buses if they were issued by an English council, but not Welsh ones unfortunately.

Rahmah Hi, we are Malaysians (3 paxs). Can we buy weekly ticket on senior citizen fares. We will be visiting London for 10 days. Thank you

Staff Hi Rahmah. Unfortunately not, no. Cheap fares for senior citizens are only available for UK citizens or people who live in London. An Oyster card will probably work out cheaper for you, rather than a weekly travelcard, but it all depends on how many journeys you're making in total. Bear in mind that a weekly travelcard has to be used over seven consecutive days. You can't spread the seven days over a stay of ten

Mr Jones I have a bus pass as I an 67 yrs old , can I get an oap rail card . So I and my wife can get discounted rail fare . She is 64 yrs old . Are we eligible for it as a couple even though she is not 66 yrs yet.

Staff Hi Mr Jones. Senior rail cards are valid for everyone aged 60 and over, so your wife will be eligible as well. You’ll both have to get one if you both want the discounts

Mrs smith Has the oap rail card for 1 yr stopped now. Only 3 yrs available.

Staff Hi Mrs Smith. Its still available, £30 for one year. If you click one of the links mentioned above for trainline or nationalrail then they’ll give you options for 1 year or 3 years

Artifex Isn’t it some form of human rights discrimination that while pensioners who live in London boroughs are entitled to free tube travel, pensioners from outside London are not?

Staff Hi Artifex. Freedom Passes aren't funded by the government. Local councils pay for them through their residents’ council tax.

Eliza T A bit confusing. 60+ oyster card allows me to travel free during Non-peak hours for London Underground as stated above. At the same time, under Senior Rail card, it stated that I can get 33% off on national Rail cost and non-peak London Underground (tube travel). Is it some confusion on the non-peak travel for London Underground? Is it free or 33% off? I am over 60 and move to and immigrate to London soon from oversea.

Staff Hi Eliza. The 60+ Oyster card is only available for people who live in London, whereas the Railcard can be bought by anyone. So If you live in London you're better off just getting the 60+ Oyster card. The only reason you'd want to get the railcard as well is if you were planning on travelling to other parts of the country, then you could get 33% off the national rail tickets.

Kris D Hello, I live in Liverpool and planning to spend a week this summer in London. I understand I can travel in London buses for free. I also have an Oyster card. What other cheaper travel options do I have for the duration of our stay. Thank you. Kris

Staff Hi Kris. The cheapest fares on the tube are always with Oyster and contactless (which are both the same), so if you already have an Oyster card I would use that on the tube and your national bus pass on the bus. (If you're staying for a whole seven days then it's possible that a weekly travelcard might work out cheaper, but only if you make two or more journeys on each of the seven days, or three or more journeys on six of the days)

Trevor I live just outside London (Ashford Surrey) and have to travel into London regularly for work. I have a senior person rail card, which gives me discount on the off-peak rail travel. Can I link the rail card to an oyster card to get cheaper underground travel?

Staff Hi Trevor. You can do, yes. you have to register your oyster card on the TFL website first (you’ve probably already done this) and then you just take both cards (or digital pass) to a member of TFL staff at the station and ask them to load it on. Then the discount will be applied automatically when you use the oyster card

Sarah Hello, we are going to be going to London for a week from May4-11th (flying from Canada). We are both over 60. We will be staying near Kew Bridge (zone 3).After reading about all the different types of cards and passes etc, it looks like the easiest (and cheapest?) option for us will be to use a contactless card and just tap on and off. From what I can gather the daily cap would be 9.60 pounds. It doesn't look like we wold be entitled to an over 60 discount. Is this correct?

Staff Hi Sarah. You certainly could use a contactless card if you wanted to, but if it's a foreign card then your bank might charge some kind of transaction fee every time you buy something with it over here, which will bump up the price of each ticket. So you should check that first. You can't get over 60s discount if you don't live in London, and it's too late to have a Visitor Oyster Card posted over to Canada, so we would recommend getting an Oyster card when you arrive, and loading it up with enough money to cover the 'daily cap' each day - city-guide.london/​transport/​oyster-cards.php - you can get them from heathrow if that's where you're arriving at. £9,60 is the daily cap for zones 1-3. the daily cap for heathrow to central london is £14,90 (zones 1-6)... I hope you enjoy the Coronation!

Maureen Hayhurst How much is the fare from Victoria to Waterloo?

Staff Hi Maureen. It depends on how you pay. All the different fares are shown here - city-guide.london/​transport/​train-journey.php?from=victoria&to=waterloo

Bob I'm a pensioner living in Leeds but coming early September to London for 2 weeks how can I make my travel costs more acceptable as I wish to travel around London to see various sites

Staff Hi Bob. If you've got an OAP bus pass then that will give you free travel on London's buses after 9 AM, as long as it has the red rose symbol on it (it should do). Unfortunately you need to be living in a London borough to get free travel on the tube, so the cheapest fares will be with your contactless card - city-guide.london/​transport/​contactless-cards.php

Colinne All answers for living in London. What is there for pensioners visiting London

Staff Hi Colinne. Senior citizens living outside london don't get any discounts on the trains (apart from the senior railcard described above), but you can use an English council supplied bus pass for free travel on the buses - city-guide.london/​transport/​senior-bus-fares.php

Ste Hi how do I get to Heathrow Terminal 4 from kings cross and how much cost please travel at 5.30 pm

Staff Hi Ste. You can just get the Piccadilly line. The prices are shown here - city-guide.london/​transport/​train-journey.php?from=kings-cross-st-pancras&to=heathrow-terminal-4

Rory Hi, as an Australian passport holder aged 64, am I eligible for the Senior Rail card?

Staff Hi Rory. You should be fine. According to their terms: "We accept machine readable passport codes from all countries except for those issued in the Philippines and Bangladesh prior to 2010" - senior-railcard.co.uk/​help/​faqs/visiting-outside-GB/

Jean Can I get a free Oyster card to load as a senior citizen from outside london

Staff Hi Jean. Unfortunately not, no. If you live outside london the only free travel you get is with your OAP bus pass on the buses, as described here - city-guide.london/​transport/​senior-bus-fares.php

Syl Can I load a senior rail card onto my visitor oyster Card? Presumably I will need to have my visitor oyster Card when I apply for my senior rail card or can I load my senior rail card later?

Staff Hi Syl. I don't think that's possible, because you need to register the oyster card online at the TFL website before you can load a railcard on to it. But they don't allow you to register visitor oyster cards, only regular oyster cards. You could buy a regular oyster card once you arrive in London, and load the railcard on then, but you won't be able to have it posted overseas before you arrive (I think you said you were from New Zealand in another post)

Jacquie Sorry sure you have been asked this many times. We are 66 and 68. We are in London for 3 nights in July, we need the flexibility to travel anytime on the underground. Do we just get an Oyster card each, or is there a better alternative? Thank you

Staff Hi Jacquie. If you want to travel at any time then the senior passes described above are no good (and you have to live in a London borough to get them). If you're from the UK then we recommend just using your contactless bank card because you won't have to pay the Oyster deposit. If you're from abroad then we recommend getting an Oyster card - city-guide.london/​transport/​oyster-contactless-travelcard-comparison.php

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> Forum: London Buses, Taxis & Trains

Do Over 60s Get Free Travel in London?

Mobility Extra Team

As the population continues to age, many resources are becoming available for older adults, and one such perk is discounted or free travel. A common question among the +60 age group residing in the bustling city of London is whether they can benefit from free travel. The answer is yes, but there are specific conditions and requirements that need to be met.

Those who are 60 years or older and live in a London borough are eligible for a 60+ London Oyster photocard. This photocard grants free travel on buses, trains, and other modes of transport within and around London. However, it is essential to note that this free travel privilege is typically limited to certain times such as from 09:00 or 09:30 on weekdays, and any time on weekends and public holidays.

To obtain a 60+ London Oyster photocard, individuals need to apply through the Transport for London (TfL) website. It’s worth mentioning that once someone becomes eligible for a Freedom Pass, they should transfer their 60+ Oyster pass to it. The Freedom Pass extends these benefits to more services and times, enhancing the advantages available to older Londoners.

Free Travel for Over 60s in London

London offers several travel concessions for people aged 60 and over, ensuring accessible and affordable public transport options across the city. This section discusses two key provisions: the Freedom Pass and the 60+ London Oyster Photocard.

Freedom Pass

The Freedom Pass is available to older adults who have reached State Pension age and live in a London borough. It grants free access to a variety of public transport options, including buses, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, and some National Rail services within London. Elizabeth Line services are also covered when they become operational.

To apply for an Older Person’s Freedom Pass, check your eligibility and fill out an application on the London Councils website. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an Oyster card, which serves as your Freedom Pass. Simply touch in and out at the gates or validators, and you’ll be able to enjoy unlimited travel on London’s public transport network.

60+ London Oyster Photocard

For those who are aged 60 or over but have not yet reached the State Pension age, the 60+ London Oyster Photocard offers an alternative for free travel in London. This concession allows holders to travel for free on buses, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, and some National Rail services within the London fare zones.

To be eligible for a 60+ London Oyster Photocard, you must be 60 years of age or older and reside in a London borough. Applications can be submitted via the Transport for London (TfL) website. Once approved, you will receive an Oyster Photocard, which must be touched in and out at the gates or validators while travelling.

Keep in mind that the 60+ London Oyster Photocard is a temporary concession until you become eligible for the Freedom Pass. Upon reaching State Pension age, you will need to apply for the Freedom Pass to continue enjoying free travel across London.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility criteria.

To be eligible for free travel in London if you are aged 60 or over, you can apply for the 60+ London Oyster photocard . This allows free travel on buses, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, and most National Rail services in London. Discounted fares are also available on River services and the Emirates Air Line. However, free travel on services outside London is not offered.

To qualify for a 60+ London Oyster photocard, you must:

• Be aged 60 or over
• Live in a London borough

If you meet the State Pension age, currently 66 for both women and men, you can apply for an Older Person’s Freedom Pass instead. This also provides free travel within and around London.

For disabled individuals, there is a Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass , which offers similar travel benefits.

Apply Online

To apply for a 60+ London Oyster photocard, visit the Transport for London (TfL) website. Older Person’s Freedom Pass and Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass applications can be made on the London Councils website.

Required Documents

To apply for a 60+ London Oyster photocard, Older Person’s Freedom Pass, or Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass, you will need the following information and documents:

• Proof of age (such as a birth certificate or passport)
• Proof of address (such as a bank statement, utility bill, or council tax bill)
• A passport-sized photograph
• National Insurance number (for Older Person’s Freedom Pass)

Remember to double-check your application’s details and requirements on the appropriate website before submitting.

Using the Pass and Travel Benefits

Coverage and travel options.

If you are 60 or over and living in London, you can access free travel on buses, trains, and other modes of transport within and around the city using the 60+ London Oyster photocard.

The 60+ London Oyster photocard provides coverage for the following transport options:

• Trains (including Thameslink)
• London Underground
• Docklands Light Railway
• London Overground
• Tram services
• River services (if operated by TfL)

Using Your Pass

To use your 60+ London Oyster photocard, you will need to touch in and out on the yellow card readers found at stations, on buses, and trams. Travel is free on weekdays from 09:00 and anytime on weekends and bank holidays for Older Person’s Freedom Pass holders, while Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass holders enjoy free travel at all times.

Remember to carry your 60+ London Oyster photocard with you at all times when travelling, as you might be asked to show it when using transport services.

Discounts and Offers

Aside from the free travel benefits, there are additional discounts available for 60+ London Oyster photocard holders and other eligible passengers such as disabled people and veterans. Some of these include:

• Pay as you go fares at a discounted rate for river services not operated by TfL
• Discounted travel for unemployed people seeking work in London through the Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card
• Santander Cycles membership discounts for easy access to the cycle hire scheme

For children under the age of 11, they can travel free on most TfL services when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket or Oyster card.

About the author

Notice:MobilityExtra.com is an information and guidance-only website. The information on the site is not tailored advice to each individual reader and, as such, does not constitute actionable legal advice nor actionable financial advice. All information, guidance or suggestions provided are intended to be general in nature. You should not rely on any of the information on the site in connection with the making of any personal decisions, and you should always do your own in-depth research first and speak to specialists.

By using this website, you accept that you use the information at your own risk, and we can’t accept liability for any action you take. You should also note that we do not provide financial advice or legal advice, and no content or articles on the site should be regarded as financial advice or legal advice. You should always do your own research before choosing any financial or legal product, so that you can be sure it is right for you and your specific circumstances.

We aim to provide helpful content, but we can’t guarantee that it is always correct. We try to provide the best information we can. However, we cannot guarantee we won’t make mistakes. We can also not guarantee that the information you read is up to date from a legal or financial perspective. So please note that you use the information on our site at your own risk. We advise that you read our information in conjunction with other sources. If you do find any errors, please email us at [email protected].

At times we work with third parties who act as affiliates or partners. We might receive a commission or payment from them if you were to engage with them directly. We do not also provide quotes, advise or sell products directly to consumers, nor are we a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Licensed Agent or Broker. This site is an information hub and the options expressed are our own and should not be considered as advice.

We always strongly recommend that you get professional advice when seeking support on any topic, particularly legal and/or financial advice. Further guidance on financial topics can be obtained from moneyhelper.org.uk. You can also find legal advisors through the Law Society website.

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Benefits and Entitlements

If you're 60 or over or you have a disability, you might be eligible for public transport concessions – from discounts on your rail journeys to a free bus pass.

What transport concessions are available?

Can i get a free bus pass, can i get a discount on rail travel, can i get a london freedom pass, what if i have difficulty using public transport, what if i'm unable to use public transport.

There are several national public transport concessions available to older and disabled people. Some entitle you to discounts on your fares, while others allow you to travel for free.

Eligibility for these concessions depends on whether you have a disability or your age. 

Depending on your age and your circumstances, you might be able to get one of the following free bus passes, which allow you to travel free on local buses:

• an older person's bus pass
• a disabled person's bus pass

What age do I have to be to get an older person's bus pass?

You can get an older person's bus pass when you reach State Pension age, which is currently 66 for both women and men.

Apply for your older person's bus pass on GOV.UK

If you're 60 or over and live in London, then you can get free travel on buses, trains and other modes of transport in and around London with a 60+ London Oyster photocard.

Apply for your 60+ London Oyster photocard on the TFL website

How can I get a disabled person's bus pass?

There's no central provider of the disabled person's bus pass – to find out if you're eligible and how to apply, you need to get in touch with your local council.

Find your local council and apply for a disabled person's bus pass on GOV.UK

Are there any other discounts if I'm an older person or I'm disabled?

It's a good idea to contact individual transport operators to see if they offer discounts.

For instance, National Express offers Coachcards. These are discount cards for older or disabled customers. You buy them for a set fee of £12.50 and they get you a third off the cost of your travel across the year.

Find out more and order a Coachcard on the National Express website

Depending on your age and circumstances, you might be entitled to one of the below railcards:

• a Senior Railcard
• a Disabled Person's Railcard

Both railcards are discount cards. You buy them for a set fee to last either 1 or 3 years and they get you a third off the cost of your train travel.

Can I get a Senior Railcard?

The Senior Railcard is available for anyone aged 60 or over to buy.

You can apply on the Senior Railcard website using a valid passport or UK driving licence as ID. Alternatively, you can apply in person at most staffed railway stations.

Find out more about the Senior Railcard and apply online

Can I get a Disabled Person's Railcard?

The Disabled Person's Railcard is available to you if you meet one of the following criteria:

• you're registered as deaf or use a hearing aid
• you're registered as having a visual impairment
• you have epilepsy
• you receive a disability-related benefit, such as  Personal Independence Payment
• you receive War or Service Disablement pension
• you receive Attendance Allowance
• you receive Severe Disablement Allowance
• you receive War Pensioner's mobility supplement

Find out more about the Disabled Person's Railcard and apply online

Freedom Passes give London residents free travel in the city – including National Rail services, the Underground, buses, river services and trams – and free local bus journeys nationally.

If you live in London, you can apply for a Freedom Pass if one of the following applies to you:

• you've reached State Pension age
• you have a disability.

Find out more about Freedom Passes and apply on the London Councils website

National Rail has an interactive tool called Stations Made Easy, designed to help people find their way around stations and find more accessible routes, avoiding potential difficulties like stairs. This may be helpful if you have difficulty using public transport because of your health. 

Find out more and use the tool on the National Rail website

If you're disabled, you can't use public transport, or you don't have access to a car, you might also be able to use a community transport scheme – such as a social car, dial-a-ride, or taxicard scheme.

Shopmobility schemes help people shop in town centres by lending out wheelchairs and scooters. Some local councils also offer concessions on local public transport.

To find out what's available in your area, you can contact your local council or your local Age UK.

Find your local council on GOV.UK

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We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.

About the Age UK Advice Line Find your local Age UK

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Last updated: Apr 14 2023

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Apply for an older person's bus pass

If you live in england or wales.

In England you can get a bus pass for free travel when you reach the State Pension age .

If you live in London, you can travel free on buses, tubes and other transport when you’re 60, but only within London.

In Wales you can get a bus pass when you reach 60.

Enter your postcode to:

• apply for a bus pass from your local council
• check if you can get one sooner

Find a postcode on Royal Mail's postcode finder

If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland

You get an older person’s bus pass when you’re 60. Apply if you’re in:

• Northern Ireland

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London Councils

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• Freedom Pass

Login to Freedom Pass

• Older persons Freedom Pass

First time applications

Important:  please do not submit a first time application if you require a replacement pass as this may cause unnecessary delays.  find out how to replace your freedom pass here .   , how to apply for an older persons freedom pass.

You can apply online, or return your application form by post.  Please read the following information on how to apply.

Please note you are unable to apply at London Councils office. Instead you must choose one of the following methods of applying. 

1. Check if you are eligible

Please make sure that you meet the  eligibility criteria  first before applying. 

2. Apply online (recommended)

View the Freedom Pass privacy statement to find out what information we collect, why we collect it, and how long we keep your information for.

Click on the 'Apply online now' button.  You will be asked to provide the following:

• Provide your email address. You will be sent an email to confirm your email address.
• Complete your name and address details.
• Add proof of your name and age -  Documents you need
• Add proof of your residential address in London - Documents you need
• Add a colour photograph of yourself - Photo requirements
• Agree to the terms and conditions
• Take a note of your application reference number so that you can track the progress of your Freedom Pass.

Apply online now   

How to add proof of your identity, address or photograph

If you are not able to add proof of your identity, address or photograph you can skip this section and instead return your documents by post. You will need to print a verification page to return in the post along with the required information

If you need help applying online, assistance and computers may be available at some local libraries or council offices, however, please check first by  clicking on your relevant borough at the bottom of this page .

3. Apply by post

You can download and print an application form . 

*PLEASE DO NOT TAKE PHOTOCOPIES OF APPLICATION FORMS AS EACH FORM CONTAINS A BARCODE AND UNIQUE REFERENCE NUMBER WHICH IS USED TO TRACK INDIVIDUAL APPLICATIONS. REFRESH YOUR BROWSER AFTER EACH DOWNLOAD IF YOU REQUIRE MORE THAN ONE.

To find out where you can collect an application form from please click on your borough at the bottom of this page.

Am I Eligible?   

Please ensure you meet the age criteria first before submitting your application. 

• Complete and sign the application form
• Enclose a passport-sized colour photograph - Photo requirements
• Enclose proof of your identity and proof of your address - Documents you need
• Return in the post to: 

Freedom Pass Application, PO Box 572, Hull, HU9 9LP

Please make sure you put enough postage on the envelope to ensure your application is delivered.

4. Receiving your pass 

* Royal Mail - Latest news updates - Delivery of Freedom Passes may be delayed during industrial action/strike.

Once your application has been received your eligibility will be checked and your Freedom Pass posted to you within *10 working days. If you are submitting your form by post please allow a few extra days for your form to be delivered.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:  The 5 year expiry date on the Freedom Pass is the lifespan of the card chip, and is not how long someone is entitled to hold the pass for.  Therefore, if you no longer meet the eligibility criteria for the Freedom Pass you hold it can be stopped at any time.  

5. Tracking your application

If you have applied for your Freedom Pass online you will be able to track its progress by logging into your account with your username (email address) and password. We will also email you once your pass has been posted. Please leave two to three working days from when you submit your application before trying to track it.

Cards are sent out by second-class post. If the online tracker shows that your card has been dispatched, it may take up to 10 working days to reach you. If you still haven’t received it after this time please email us at [email protected] or call the Freedom Pass helpline on 0300 330 1433 and we will cancel the pass and issue you with a replacement. 

Transferring from the 60+ London Oyster Photocard to the Freedom Pass

London Councils, which operates the Freedom Pass scheme on behalf of the 33 London local authorities, has worked with Transport for London (TfL) to simplify the process for those with a 60+ Oyster card to transfer to the Older Persons Freedom Pass (66+) when you become eligible.

Approximately four weeks before you are entitled to a Freedom Pass, TfL transfers names, addresses, contact details and photographs to London Councils for people who have agreed that their data can be shared. London Councils will then write to you, inviting you to go online to confirm some details and order your pass. This avoids you having to complete a new application form or providing a new photograph. Your Freedom Pass will be sent by post to arrive before your 60+ oyster card expires.

If you have received your letter to transfer your 60+ Oyster pass you can transfer it online here

As well as being convenient, this method saves taxpayers money by avoiding the printing, transaction and postage costs of a paper application. If you hold a 60+ pass and have not already given your consent to share your data with London Councils, you can provide consent by calling TfL on 0343 222 1234. You can also ask to check and, if necessary, amend your data at the same time.

Click on the London borough in which you live to find out where you can obtain a paper application form.

Barking & Dagenham

If you live in the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham you can now apply for the Older Person's Freedom Pass scheme directly via the London Councils website.

London Councils administers the scheme on behalf of the 32 London Boroughs and the City of London.

At the top of this webpage you will find instructions on how to apply.

Apply by post

You can download and print an application form. PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU MEET THE AGE CRITERIA BEFORE SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION.

1.         Complete and sign the application form

2.         Enclose a passport-sized colour photograph - Photo requirements

3.         Enclose proof of your identity and proof of your address - Documents you need

4.         Return in the post to:

PLEASE DO NOT TAKE PHOTOCOPIES OF APPLICATION FORMS AS EACH FORM CONTAINS A BARCODE AND UNIQUE REFERENCE NUMBER WHICH IS USED TO TRACK INDIVIDUAL APPLICATIONS.

If you live in the London Borough of Barnet and do not have access to a computer, you can visit your local library and ask the staff to assist you.  Some Barnet libraries are now self-service.  Please check the opening times of your local library before your visit to find out when library staff will be available if you need assistance.

If you live in the London Borough of Bexley and need help applying please contact your local library or call 020 8303 7777

Application forms can be found at:

If you live in the London Borough of Brent and need help applying a Customer Service officer will be able to assist at Brent Civic Centre

Application forms can be found at:

If you live in the London Borough of Bromley and need help applying please contact your local library first.

If you live in the London Borough of Camden you can now apply for the Older Person's Freedom Pass scheme directly via the London Councils website.

At the top of this webpage you will find instructions on how to apply. 

City of London

If you live in the City of London and need help applying please contact your local library first.

City of Westminster

Application forms can be found at City of Westminster libraries .

If you live in the City of Westminster and need help applying please contact your local library.

Application forms can be downloaded from the website, however, if you do not have access to a printer you may wish to use the facilities available at:

Croydon Central Library, Croydon Clock tower, Katharine Street, Croydon. CR9 1ET

or  from other Croydon libraries   Please note that printing fees apply.

If you live in the London Borough of Croydon and need help to download the application form please contact your local library first.

There are two ways to apply for an Older Persons Freedom Pass:

Online or download a form http://secure.freedompass.org/download-form-pdf and post this form to:

Ealing BBA, PO Box 68276, W5 9LQ.

Application forms can be found at Enfield libraries .

If you live in the London Borough of Enfield and need help applying please contact your local library.

Application forms can be found at Greenwich libraries .

If you live in the Royal Borough of Greenwich and need help applying please contact your local library first.

Application forms can be obtained by calling Hackney Service Centre on 0208 356 6262

Hammersmith & Fulham

If you live in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham and need help applying please contact the Accessible Transport Team on 020 8753 6681

Greenhill Library, Perceval Square, College Road, Harrow, HA1 1GX

020 3714 7731/32, [email protected]

Kenton Library, Kenton Lane, Kenton HA3 8UJ

020 3714 7712, [email protected]

Pinner Library, Marsh Road, Pinner HA5 5NQ

020 3714 7718, [email protected]

Roxeth Library, Northolt Road, South Harrow HA2 8EQ

020 3714 7705, [email protected]

Stanmore Library, 8 Stanmore Hill, Stanmore HA7 3BQ

020 3714 7728, [email protected]

Wealdstone Library, The Wealdstone Centre, 38/40 High Street, Wealdstone HA3 7AE

020 3714 7725, [email protected]

If you live in the London Borough of Harrow and need help applying please contact your local library first. O nline applications can also be made at Harrow Civic/One Stop Shop where there are portals with internet access.

Central Library, St. Edwards Way, Romford, RM1 3AR Upminster Library, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster, RM14 2BB Hornchurch Library, North Street, Hornchurch, RM11 1TB

If you live in the London Borough of Havering, are a library member and want to access a computer you will need to book a PC first by calling one of the ten libraries.

Application forms can be downloaded from the London Councils website, however, if you do not have access to a printer please contact the London Borough of Hillingdon Freedom Pass Team on 01895 556633.

If you live in the London Borough of Hounslow and need help applying please visit your local library.

If you live in the London Borough of Islington and need help applying please contact your local library first.

Library opening hours leaflet

Kensington & Chelsea

Application forms can be found at Kensington &Chelsea libraries .

If you live in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and need help applying please contact your local library.

Kingston upon Thames

Application forms can be found at Kingston library, Fairfield Rd, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2PS

If you live in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames and need help applying please contact your local library.

Application forms can be completed online at:

Lambeth Civic Centre; 6 Brixton Hill, SW 6 1EG

If you live in the London Borough of Lambeth and need help applying please contact your local library first to see if a digi buddie will be available to assist you.

If you do not have access to a smart phone or tablet computer or you require assistance to apply on line please contact one of the following venues where staff will be happy to help you.

• Sydenham Library, Sydenham Rd, SE26 5SE please call 020 8778 1753 for an appointment.
• Grove Park community library service , Somertrees Avenue, Grove Park, SE12 0BX, please call 020 8851 3136 for an appointment.
• New Cross community library service , New Cross Library, 283 285 New Cross Road, SE14 6AS.  Please call 020 8469 0532 for an appointment.
• Leemore Centre, Bonfield Road, SE13 5EU –Monday – Wednesday and Friday 10am – 1pm, please call 0800 231 5453 for an appointment
• Corbett Community Library, Torridon Road, Catford, SE6 1RQ. Monday and Thursday 9.30 – 1.00pm, please call 020 8378 5358 for an appointment.

If you are not able to attend any of these venues you can downloaded a form from this site and return it by post.

Application forms can be found at all Merton libraries

Merton Civic Centre Reception London Rd, Morden SM4 5DX

Online or download a form http://secure.freedompass.org/download-form-pdf  and post this form to:

Freedom Pass, PO Box 6618, Arbroath DD11 9AT.

Application forms can be found at Redbridge Libraries

Richmond upon Thames

If you live in the London Borough of Southwark and need help applying please contact your local library. 

If you live in the London Borough of Sutton and are   unable to apply online, you can apply in person at any Sutton Borough Library or at Sutton Civic Offices.   Please check the opening times before visiting. It is not necessary to complete a form in advance.

Tower Hamlets

Support sessions for online applications are available as follows: Please note that p aper application forms will not be available from Idea Stores

Idea Store Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road E1 1BU    Mondays 10.15am to 11.45am

Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place E3 5ES    Thursdays 10.00am to 12.00pm

Idea Store Chrisp Street, 1 Vesey Path, East India Dock Road E14 6BT   Thursdays 10.00am to 12.00pm

Idea Store Watney Market, 260 Commercial Road E1 2FB   Thursdays 10.00am to 12.00pm

Cubitt Town Library, Strattondale Street E14 3HG   Thursdays 10.30am to 12.00pm

Waltham Forest

Application forms can be printed at your request at:

Further information can be found at www.walthamforest.gov.uk

The contact telephone number for any enquiries is 020 8496 3000 open Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00 pm

 Application forms can be found at the customer centre and  libraries .

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• Travel assistance for Ukrainian Evacuees
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Future of over-60s Oyster card and Freedom Pass free travel before 9am in doubt

Age UK London says keeping the ban on free travel before 9am will "make pensioner poverty worse"

• 11:28, 20 OCT 2022
• Updated 15:12, 20 OCT 2022

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Campaigners have expressed fears over the future of the 60+ Oyster card and the Freedom Pass in London, ahead of a crunch decision expected in December. A lift on the ban on free travel before 9am for both the 67+ Freedom Pass and over-60s Oyster is unlikely to be lifted, MyLondon understands.

It comes amid plans to increase the age of eligibility for the over-60s Oyster card to meet government-imposed cost cutting requirements on Transport for London (TfL). Since June 2020, older Londoners have not been able to use their Older Persons’ Freedom Pass or their 60+ Oyster card between 4.30am and 9am on weekday mornings. Since then, older Londoners' travel concessions have become increasingly under threat, Age UK London says.

In July, nearly 5,000 people wrote to Seb Dance, London’s deputy mayor for transport, calling for an end to the pandemic-era suspension of free travel before 9am for over 60s in London. Age UK London secured a meeting with the Deputy Mayor to ask him to support the end to the suspension, saying the concession was “vital” amid the cost of living crisis. But it now appears that TfL will push ahead with retaining the pre-9am free travel ban for older Londoners and increasing the age of eligibility.

READ MORE: Sadiq Khan hints at delay to expanding £12.50 Ultra Low Emissions Zone to cover all of London

It follows a 2021 funding deal between the government and TfL that is set to see the 60+ Oyster Card gradually phased out until the concession disappears entirely next decade. Although current users of the 60+ Oyster Card will not be affected, the eventual cut would hurt future generations of older people, with someone who is 57 now likely to have to wait until they are 63 to get their over-60s Oyster.

Age UK London has branded the move a “regressive” step that will hit people on the lowest incomes the hardest. “Some of the poorest older Londoners are among those hardest hit and we’ve heard from hundreds of older Londoners about the devastating impact so far,” a spokesperson said, adding: “Affordable transport is a lifeline not a luxury and it can transform lives. Taking travel concessions away from older Londoners who live in the city with the worst pensioner poverty rate in the country and some of the highest living costs in the world will drive up poverty and exacerbate the capital’s social isolation crisis.”

Abigail Wood, CEO, Age UK London, told MyLondon: “We have been closely following any comments about the pre-9am suspension on Older Persons Freedom Pass and 60+ Oyster Card use. Until a decision has been made we reiterate our call, backed by 70,000 Londoners, on the Mayor to lift the suspension and reinstate travel concessions at all times.

“One in four older Londoners are in poverty and a third live below the Minimum Income Standard. Many who travel before 9am do so not because they choose to but because they have to: to work (often in low-paid roles that require early morning shifts), to carry out caring responsibilities and to attend medical appointments. Making the morning suspension permanent would be a financial kick in the teeth for older Londoners already struggling to make ends meet.”

Joanna Davidson, London TravelWatch CEO, added: "We understand why changes were made to concessionary passes during the height of the pandemic - managing passenger numbers was clearly a priority for transport and health authorities at the time.

"However, any permanent changes to when 60+ Oyster and Freedom cards can be used would be very challenging for those who need to get to hospital appointments or shift work early in the morning. With the current cost of living pressures, if there are plans afoot to change the timings of these concessions permanently then we would welcome a wider discussion about this."

Green London Assembly member Sian Berry said the mood music from the Mayor and TfL was "very bad": "It doesn't seem to be their priority, and the new deal specifically excludes using the new government money for restoring it. This means we all need to make the case, alongside Londoners, for finding the funding for this vital piece of support for older working Londoners in the upcoming budget process.” The Freedom Pass is funded by local authorities and coordinated by London Councils, while the over-60s Oyster is managed by Transport for London.

Nick Rogers AM, GLA Conservatives transport spokesperson, said cutting eligibility for 60+ Oyster card holders was "completely unnecessary" while TfL spends millions on nominee passes for staff family members: "Many people rely on this scheme to get to hospital appointments and to go about their daily lives. Sadiq Khan's priorities are wrong and not shared by Londoners."

A spokesperson for the Mayor said: “TfL’s finances were decimated by the pandemic and the Government set strict conditions as part of emergency funding deals to keep essential services running. The Mayor managed to save free or discounted travel for under 18 year olds and those with a 60+ Oyster or Freedom Pass on London’s Tubes, buses and trains, but he has been forced to consider increasing the age of eligibility for the 60+ concession on a phased basis (subject to consideration of the benefit being retained for those on low incomes).

"However, no final decision has been made and any change in eligibility would be supported by consultation with appropriate key stakeholders and an Equality Impact Assessment.” The plans form part of a demand from Government to raise additional revenue for TfL. In December 2021, the Mayor announced he was considering a number of modifications to fares structures and ticketing, which included this.

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