Concessions

Life Begins at Bus Pass

Discover the joy of free bus travel

Free travel with a bus pass can mean more than getting from A to B. It’s easier than ever to get out and about with First Bus.

A catch-up that turns into something more. A day out that starts with a good idea and a free seat. If you're eligible, free travel means more time for the things that matter.

It’s about moving the everyday. Doing more of what you enjoy, whenever it suits you.

How to Get Your Free Bus Pass

Are you eligible?

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If you live in England and reach the state pension age, you’re good to go!

Check here

Apply online

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You can apply through your local council up to 28 days before your birthday.

Apply online

What you'll need

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Complete the form and upload a passport style photo, proof of identity and address.

Ride Free!

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Once your pass arrives, you can enjoy free off-peak travel between 9am to 11pm weekdays and all weekend and public holidays.

See FAQs for details

Try something new in Essex

Riverside Leisure Centre

Riverside Activity

Where? Chelmsford

Service:  47, C8 and C11

Visit

Pottery Painting 

Pottery Class

Where? North Hill, Colchester

Service: All services into Colchester High Street

Visit

Dancing 

https://www.dancenetworkassociation.org.uk/service-page/dancing-for-older-adults-colchester

Where? The Mercury Theatre Colchester

Service: 54 and 104

Visit

Plan your Journey

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Maps & Timetables 

Find out more about our routes and network.

Journey Planner
 
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The First Bus App

Travelling by bus couldn't be easier with the First Bus App in your pocket!

Apple store travel app link Android store travel app link

FAQs

Eligibility is generally based on reaching the state pension age, which varies depending on your date of birth and where you live in the UK. You can check your eligibility on the UK Government website.

The Senior Bus Pass is issued by Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council or Thurrock Council.

If you’re eligible you can apply for your pass on their website:

 You’ll usually need to provide proof of age, residency, and a photograph.

The bus pass is valid in the region or country it was issued in (England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland), but not across the UK. However, some cross-border services may accept passes from neighbouring countries.

In Essex, you can use your concessionary bus pass for free between 9am and 11pm on weekdays, and all day on weekends and public holidays.

Check your local council’s website to be sure.

Please note that restrictions may vary in other parts of the UK, including Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

You should report the loss to your local authority, who can issue a replacement, usually for a small fee. Visit your local council’s website for more information.

Validity differs across the UK but you should receive a renewal notice before it expires.

Please check your local council’s website:

Please visit the website of the local council that issued your pass for details on how to update your address.

Free travel with a concessionary pass is valid across the Essex Network, except on Amazon Z3, Z4, and school buses 525 and 570.

Please note that a valid, in-date English National Concessionary Bus Pass must be presented to travel free of charge. If you are unable to provide a valid pass, the full standard adult fare will apply.

As long as your pass is valid, you're still able to travel. Your driver will record your pass manually and issue you a ticket for your journey.