Scotland Wide Free Bus Pass
Free bus pass
If you are over 5 years old and have had a seizure within the last 12 months you are entitled to a free bus pass.
To apply for the bus pass you need to request the forms from your local authority (or the Travel Card Unit if you live in Strathclyde). You complete and return the forms to the same place. You can also call our helpline advisers who can send you the forms you need.
You will need to prove that you are eligible for a bus pass. There are several ways of doing this. It is very simple to get your bus pass if you have a diagnosis of epilepsy. Without a diagnosis, you may not be able to get the eligibility form signed by your doctor but there are other ways of applying described below.
If you are unsure what to do, call our helpline for advice on 0808 800 2200.
If you DO have a diagnosis of epilepsy, receive treatment and have had a seizure within the last 12 months:
- Take the certificate of eligibility (NCT003) form to your GP, Epilepsy Specialist Nurse or consultant to be signed. This form confirms that you have epilepsy. We can send you this form.
If you DO NOT have a diagnosis of epilepsy but have had a seizure within the last 12 months you have 4 options:
- You can use the letter from the DVLA revoking your driving licence dated within the last 12 months.
- You can use an award letter for middle or higher level Disability Living Allowance (DLA) mobility component. The award letter must be dated within the last 12 months.
- If you do not have a driving licence or receive DLA benefits then you will need to apply to the DVLA for a driving licence. When this is turned down on medical grounds you can then use that letter as proof of eligibility.
- Everyone in Scotland who is 60 or over is entitled to the free bus pass in any case. You do not have to disclose that you have epilepsy.
You will need to provide a passport photograph and proof of address when returning the form. A young person may not have proof of address (e.g. a gas bill). Instead they will need a letter from the school or local authority confirming the young person lives in the council area, or a child benefit letter.
Anyone whose needs to be accompanied when travelling, can apply for a National Entitlement Card containing the companion entitlement (C+1).
The bus pass is valid for 12 months. Once you have one you will automatically be sent a renewal form each year. Your bus pass will only be renewed if you have had a seizure during the previous 12 months.
The completed application should be taken in person to your local authority to process. Call your local authority to find the place nearest you that processes the forms. This will often be your local social work office or library. It is different for every town.
For more information on the free bus pass scheme please call our Helpline on 0808 800 2200.