Older person’s bus pass – eligibility changes from April 2026

We’re reminding residents in Brighton & Hove about national changes that will impact when you can apply for your Older Person’s Bus Pass.

At the moment, residents can apply for their free bus pass when they reach the age of 66.

But this will rise to 67 from 6 April 2028 in line with changes to the State Pension age.

Between now and 6 April 2028, eligibility will increase in small, monthly steps.

There’s no change to anyone who currently has a free bus pass and anyone born on or after 6 March 1961 will be eligible for their bus pass when they reach the age of 67.

However, for anyone born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 the date you can apply for your Older Person's Bus Pass is set out in the table below

For example:

If you were born on 18 April 1960, you would qualify for your Older Person’s Bus Pass on 18 May 2026.

If you were born on 31 July 1960, you would qualify for your Older Person’s Bus Pass on 30 November 2026.

If you were born on 10 January 1961, you would qualify for your Older Person's Bus Pass on 10 November 2027.

Check your eligibility on the Government's website.

Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: “It’s important we make people approaching the state pension age aware of these national changes so that everyone eligible for an Older Person’s bus pass knows when they can apply.

“There’s no impact on anyone who already has Older Person’s Bus Pass, but anyone approaching their 66th birthday should be aware of the change in eligibility date.

“The free bus pass is a lifeline for so many people, linking them with shops, medical appointments, friends, family and their local communities so its important we do what we can to spread the word.”

Residents can apply for an Older Person’s Bus Pass through the council once they reach State Pension age.

Find out more information about Older Person's Bus Passes.