How it works
Find out who is eligible for free bus travel and what buses you can use.
Using your card
How to use 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.
Your card takes you to school, gets you to work, takes you to the shops and lets you visit your friends and family – and you don’t have to pay a thing.
It also gives you the freedom to travel anywhere in Scotland. Dumfries to Dundee. Lochinver to Loch Ness. Selkirk to Saltcoats. And everywhere in between.
If there’s a bus to get you there, you can take it.
There are only a few buses that aren’t included in the scheme such as premium fare services, sightseeing buses, cross-border services, some airport transfer services and dedicated school buses. Check with your bus operator if you aren’t sure.
Your responsibilities
The main thing is to have your card on you whenever you want to take the bus – otherwise you’ll have to pay for your trip. Parents or guardians – this means you too! Don’t forget your wee one’s card when you travel.
Remember
- 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. No filters please!
- You need to report any changes of circumstances which may affect your entitlement, including changes of address, to your local council. Check the back of your card for the right number.
- Always keep in touch with your family and friends to let them know where you are – it’s important to stay safe.
Very occasionally, the driver will advise you that your card has been “hotlisted” or “blocked”. This usually means that it is an old card you are trying to use, and you have requested a replacement. After you’ve applied for a new card or requested a replacement, your old card will stop working. As soon as your new card arrives, you should start using it and destroy your old card.
Got any questions on using your card? – go to Help and Support.
On the bus
Travelling responsibly
- You need to take precautions to be safe.
- Cooperate with the driver and treat them and other passengers with respect.
- Ensure you are the only person that can hear your music.
- Make sure you pick up all your litter.
- Keep your feet off the seats.
People with disabilities
When you’re on the bus be aware of the people around you. They may need the seat more than you. Please be considerate of all other passengers.
You can’t always see peoples’ disabilities. Many people have hidden as well as physical disabilities and you shouldn’t make assumptions.
Young Scot cards
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 or read more about different types of National Entitlement Cards.
More about the scheme
About us
The Scottish Government has worked closely with its delivery partners to deliver free bus travel for under 22s.
Going green
The scheme is part of the Scottish Government’s plan to build a fairer, greener society.