Transport concessions in Northern Ireland
Free travel is available to everyone in Northern Ireland aged 60+ with a SmartPass card.
What transport concessions are available?
SmartPass
You must be a resident in Northern Ireland, for a minimum of 3 months to be eligible. With a 60+ SmartPass you can travel anywhere in Northern Ireland on any Translink bus or rail service and a number of coach services completely free of charge.
Senior SmartPass
Everyone 65+ and resident in Northern Ireland can apply for a Senior SmartPass. This allows free travel throughout all of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Registered blind and war disablement pensioners
Free travel on public transport is also available for people who are registered blind and war disablement pensioners.
Half fare travel
Half fare travel is available for people who get the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), who have had a driving licence refused or revoked on medical grounds, who have a learning disability or are partially sighted.
Concessionary Fares
Concessionary fares are also available with a number of other private transport companies.
How do I claim?
Application forms are available from Translink bus and railway stations, calling 0845 600 0049 (textphone number 028 9038 7505) or by emailing smartpass@translink.co.uk
Complete the form and take it in person to your local bus or rail station with a recent colour passport-sized photograph, proof of age and proof of residency. Your new pass will be posted to you within six to eight weeks.
Read more on the NI Direct website.
Common questions about free bus pass & travel concessions
Below are some common questions older people in Northern Ireland have about free public transport.
Can I get a free bus pass in Northern Ireland?
Depending on your age and your circumstances, you might be able to get one of the following free bus passes, which allow you to travel free on local buses:
What age do I have to be to get a free bus pass in Northern Ireland?
You can get a bus pass that allows free bus travel in Northern Ireland when you reach 60 with a SmartPass. Or a Senior SmartPass when you reach 65. Find out more at NI Direct
How can I get a disabled person's bus pass in Northern Ireland?
Find out more about bus pass eligibility for disabled persons in Northern Ireland at NI Direct
Are there any other discounts if I'm an older person or I'm disabled in Northern Ireland?
It's a good idea to contact individual transport operators to see if they offer discounts.
Can I get a discount on train travel in Northern Ireland?
Depending on your age and circumstances, you might be entitled to one of the below cards which allow free rail travel across Northern Ireland:
What do I need to do to get free bus and rail travel in Northern Ireland?
All the information you need about eligibility and requirements for free travel on public transport in Northern Ireland is available on NI Direct.
Age NI Advice Service
Every year our Advice Service deals with thousands of calls from older people in need. Call us today to make sure that you are receiving all the help and support available to you.