The Department for Transport in England has announced that as of April 2026, the qualifying age for receiving free bus travel will rise to 67, an increase of one year. This change is part of a broader adjustment in the state pension age, which is set to rise from 66 to 67 across the UK by 2028. The decision has faced criticism, especially as many have campaigned for the age for free bus travel to align with Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, where residents can access free travel at 60.

The shift means that many residents in England will have to wait longer for this form of transportation assistance. Currently, while local councils in places like London and Merseyside can choose to offer free bus passes at an earlier age, this policy is not mandated at the national level. The announcement has resulted in renewed discussions about equalities in public services across different regions of the UK, drawing attention to the disparities between the various nations of the United Kingdom regarding access to free public transportation.

As local authorities grapple with funding and budget priorities, this policy change will likely impact planning and provision of transport services. Adapting to the increased age requirement for free bus travel raises questions about accessibility and the impact on older citizens, who may now face greater financial burdens related to public transportation costs as they age, thus sparking further debate about social support systems for the elderly in England.