Free bus travel

Young Person’s (Under 22) Free Bus Travel

• Every young person aged 5-21 living in Scotland is eligible for free bus travel as part of the Scottish Government’s plan to create a fairer, greener Scotland.
• Once you have your National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot National Entitlement Card (Young Scot NEC), you can travel on most buses across Scotland.
• When you’re ready to travel, just bring your card, tell the bus driver your destination, tap your card, and the technology will handle the rest.

How Do You Apply?

• There are several ways to apply for a new or replacement Young Scot NEC. You can find the full details here: What you need to apply – YPTS.
• Apply online at getyournec.scot.
• Apply directly through Dumfries & Galloway Council: Young Scot cards – Dumfries and Galloway Council.
• If you’re aged 16-21 and already have an active NEC or Young Scot NEC, you can download free bus travel onto your existing card using the Transport Scot Pass App for 16-21 year-olds: YPTS (freebus.scot).

What is Good to Know?

• Parents or guardians must apply on behalf of children aged 5-15.
• Young people aged 16-21 can apply themselves.
• Children under 5 travel for free on buses and don’t need a card.
• If you’re using an NEC for free travel due to a disability, you don’t need to reapply.

Some services are not included in the scheme, such as premium fare services, sightseeing buses, cross-border routes, and dedicated school buses. If you’re unsure, contact the bus company before traveling.