Scotland introduces free bus travel for under 22s

Under 22s living in Scotland can now benefit from free bus travel through a Scottish Government scheme launched this month that has the potential to transform bus travel.

The scheme is open to children and young people with a new National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot NEC. It means that over 2.3 million people – everyone under 22, everyone over 60, and disabled people and carers – can now benefit from free bus travel in Scotland.

Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said, “Extending free bus travel will make public transport more affordable, and help give many young people wider access to more education, leisure, and work opportunities. It will also support the choice to travel sustainably early in their lives. 

“Increasing bus use will help us achieve our world-leading goal of reducing the number of kilometres travelled by car by 20% by 2030 and reaching net zero emissions by 2045.

“It will also support local bus services to recover, as we all emerge from COVID-19 restrictions.

Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants’ Rights Patrick Harvie MSP added, “This is an exciting moment for sustainable travel in Scotland. Today’s start line for free bus travel to under 22s shows how we can tackle inequality, respond to the climate emergency and improve the lives of young people through decisive government action.

“As we work to secure a green recovery from the pandemic, free bus travel will create new opportunities, protect our climate while at the same time reducing financial barriers for young people right across the country.”