Bus Passes

The National Concessionary Bus Pass scheme is for residents of the Borough of King's Lynn & West Norfolk who are aged 60 or over and people with disabilities and entitles pass holders to free bus travel anywhere in England.

Recent Government changes to the state pension age will have a direct impact on local residents' eligibility for free bus passes.

From 6 April 2010, the Government is gradually changing the eligibility to apply for a free English National Bus Pass, this is in line with their changes to the state pension age for women increasing from 60 to 65. The rise will be staged over the next ten years. Eligibility for bus passes will rise by two months each month, this means that residents who turn 60, on or after 6 April 2010, will no longer be eligible for the scheme on their 60th birthday. Details on when they will now qualify are shown below:

Birthdays between	Now qualify on
Before 6 April 1950	60th Birthday
6 April 1950 – 5 May 1950	6 May 2010
6 May 1950 – 5 June 1950	6 July 2010
6 June 1950 – 5 July 1950	6 September 2010
6 July 1950 – 5 August 1950	6 November 2010
6 August 1950 – 5 September 1950	6 January 2011
6 September 1950 – 5 October 1950	6 March 2011
6 October 1950 – 5 November 1950	6 May 2011
6 November 1950 – 6 December 1950	6 July 2011
6 December 1950 – 5 January 1951	6 September 2011

Below are some frequently asked questions in connection with the scheme.

How do I apply for a Bus Pass?

Applications can be made:

in person at any Council Office, one passport size photograph is required along with documentary evidence of eligibility
or by post - simply download and complete the Bus Pass Application Form (pdf 41.6kb)

Is there a charge?

No, the bus pass is free. However, there will be a fee charged for replacing lost passes. If you have had your pass stolen and have a crime number there will not be a charge made.

When can I use the pass?

You can travel between 8.30am and 11.00pm Monday to Friday and all day at weekends and bank holidays, this applies to all journeys in Norfolk. If you are travelling outside of Norfolk you may only be entitled to travel from 9.30am, it is recommended that you check with the local authority with regard to their start time. The scheme applies to local bus and coach services (not National Express) and does not apply to rail services. Please note there is free travel at all times within Norfolk for blind people.

What can I provide as proof of eligibility?

There are more details about evidence required on the application form. Please note that if medical evidence is required to support your application it must be obtained by the applicant. This must be signed by the Doctor/Qualified Nurse and have the Doctor’s stamp on it. Any associated costs will not be able to be claimed back from the Council.

What can I provide as proof of residency?

Bank statement, benefit book/award letter, council tax bill, driving licence (both photocard and paper part of new style), Doctor's letter, letter or statement from HMRC, medical or optical prescription, NHS medical card, pension book or utilities bill (not credit card or mobile phone bill).

What can I provide as proof of identity?

Passport, NHS card, driving licence (both photocard and paper part of new style), a statement of entitlement to a pension, or birth certificate (and marriage certificate where appropriate).

What if I change address?

If you move within the borough you should notify us of your new address by telephoning 01553 616616 or email buspass@west-norfolk.gov.uk with your new address details. If you move out of the borough you will need to register with your new council and return your King’s Lynn & West Norfolk pass to the offices at King’s Court, King’s Lynn.

What if I am disabled and need a travelling companion?

Medical evidence is required for this. Your bus pass will be issued with a ‘plus one’ indicator which means you can travel with a companion. Please note that this service is within Norfolk only, if travelling outside of the County the companion may be charged.

What do I do with my old bus pass?

Please destroy your old bus pass by cutting it up.

Does my companion/carer get a new bus pass?

No. Under the new scheme if you require a travelling companion your bus pass will have a C1 logo on it. If you have received your new bus pass and this is not on the front you will need to telephone 01553 616616 or email buspass@west-norfolk.gov.uk to notify us, medical evidence is required that you need a travelling companion .

Why is my expiry date different to my friend's?

The expiry dates are four years from your next birthday, therefore, all expiry dates will be different.

My name is spelt incorrectly on my bus pass, what should I do?

You can either telephone us on 01553 616616 or email buspass@west-norfolk.gov.uk with the details as they are and the correct details, your address and your date of birth.

My bus pass has an incorrect photograph, what should I do?

You can either telephone us on 01553 616616 or email buspass@west-norfolk.gov.uk to leave your details and someone from the Concessionary Bus Permit team will contact you.

If you have any further questions please contact us by telephoning 01553 616616 or email buspass@west-norfolk.gov.uk

Last updated: 05 July 2010