Student & Young Person Bus Travel in Scotland
Free travel on a plate
Let’s. Freaking. Go.
Ready to make plans that actually happen? Whether it’s hitting up a gig, grabbing bubble tea, thrifting for vintage finds, or just vibing somewhere new - the bus is your ticket to all of it.
- Hop on, meet up, head out – buses that get you where the action is.
- Skip the hassle – no parking, no stress, just tap your ticket in the app.
- Go together – more mates, more laughs, more memories.
Find your LFG moments closer to home
Why wait when the best stuff is right on your doorstep? From gigs to Greggs, football to thrift shops, it’s all just a bus ride away. Get out and about for free with an under 22s NEC card and the First Bus app. T&Cs apply.
Travel for free. Travel smart.
You don’t need big money for big moments, just the freedom to say: LFG. Grab your mates, hop on a bus, and make it happen.
With free travel across the country for u22, your LFG moment starts the second you step on board.
See what's 'appening
Say hello to easier journeys with the First Bus app! Your pocket-sized travel companion. From tickets to live bus tracking, it makes getting around smoother and simpler. So what are you waiting for? LFG! Download the First Bus app today!
How to plan your journey
Need to plan a trip? Here's how to check times and routes.
How to track your bus
Find out how to check our bus in real time, with our live bus tracker.
How to buy your tickets
No cash? No problem. you can buy tickets anytime, anywhere.
FAQs
Anyone aged 5–21 living in Scotland can travel for free on buses with a valid National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot NEC.
- Ages 5–15: A parent or guardian applies on your behalf
- Ages 16–21: You apply for your own NEC or Young Scot NEC
- Under 5s: Already travel free — no card needed
To apply, you’ll need a few documents to keep the process quick and easy:
- Proof of identity (passport, driving licence, Young Scot card, biometric residence permit, or Yoti account)
- Proof of address (council tax or bank statement)
- A recent passport-style photo (for ages 11+)
- For under 16s, you may also need a parent/guardian’s proof of address and your birth or adoption certificate
Apply online at mygovscot or contact your local council for support and drop-in services.
- If you already have an active NEC or Young Scot NEC, just download the Transport Scot Pass Collect app to activate free travel.
- Otherwise, apply through mygovscot, upload your ID, proof of address, and a digital photo, and request a new card.
Remember: you must have a valid NEC with the free travel entitlement activated. If you don’t, you’ll need to pay the normal fare.
You can use free travel on local and long-distance bus services across Scotland (with a few exceptions like sightseeing tours, some premium night buses, airport transfers, or closed school contracts).
Cross-border travel is allowed to Carlisle or Berwick-upon-Tweed, but not within those towns.
If your card is damaged, cracked, or won’t scan, you’ll need to pay your fare until a replacement arrives. Apply for a new card at getyournec.scot or via your local authority.
No — you must have your NEC or Young Scot NEC with you each time you travel. Without it, you’ll need to pay the fare.
Yes — if you live in Scotland for at least six months of the year, you’re eligible. This includes students who live in one area for study and another during holidays.
Simply hold your NEC to the ticket machine reader when boarding. Let the driver know your destination before removing your card.