When you can apply for an older person's bus pass

From April 2026, there will be changes to when you can apply for an older person's bus pass.

Find out when you will qualify for an older person's bus pass

From April 2026, the rules for an older person's bus pass will change in line with changes to the State Pension age. This will be done in 2 phases.

Phase 1: The Gradual Increase (2026–2027) 

For people born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961, the State Pension age will rise in monthly increments rather than jump to 67 at once. 

Date of birth  State Pension age
6 April 1960 to 5 May 1960 66 years and 1 month
6 May 1960 to 5 June 1960 66 years and 2 months
6 June 1960 to 5 July 1960 66 years and 3 months
6 July 1960 to 5 August 1960 66 years and 4 months
6 August 1960 to 5 September 1960 66 years and 5 months
6 September 1960 to 5 October 1960 66 years and 6 months
6 October 1960 to 5 November 1960 66 years and 7 months
6 November 1960 to 5 December 1960 66 years and 8 months
6 December 1960 to 5 January 1961 66 years and 9 months
6 January 1961 to 5 February 1961 66 years and 10 months
6 February 1961 to 5 March 1961 66 years and 11 months 

Phase 2: Full implementation (2028)

 Anyone born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1977 will reach their State Pension age exactly on their 67th birthday.

The transition to age 67 will be fully completed for all eligible individuals by 6 April 2028.