Nearly 300,000 Blue Badge holders are entitled to a free travel perk in Scotland. While it is widely known that over-60s or individuals who receive certain benefits get free bus travel, Blue Badge holders are also eligible for the National Entitlement Card, which provides free travel on registered local and long-distance bus services throughout Scotland.
It is valid at any time of day for any number of journeys, and required companions will also get free travel too, to help travellers get on and off buses, carry shopping and communicate with the driver. The total number of Blue Badges in Scotland in 2023 was 281,339, according to the Scottish Parliament, meaning nearly 300,000 people are entitled to it.
Plus, a valid Blue Badge issued outside Scotland, such as in the rest of the UK or by the authorities of an EU member state, will also be accepted, so the number could be much higher. However, applicants must live in Scotland.
Badge holders simply need to provide a copy or picture of both sides of their Blue Badge. They could also supply their latest V11 vehicle licensing reminder from DVLA, or the DLA404 from DWP when they apply.
Only some premium-fare services, tours or excursions and group hire services are excluded from the National Entitlement Card.
There are two routes to a Blue Badge, either by automatic entitlement based on receipt of certain benefits, or through a local authority assessment based on set criteria. You can see the full list of eligibility criteria here.
Travellers in Scotland can also get free bus travel if they receive one of a number of benefits, including Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or certain payments from the Disability Living Allowance.
Individuals with sight impairment or those who are partially or severely deaf may also be eligible for a free bus travel card in Scotland.
