As the population continues to age, many resources are becoming available for older adults, and one such perk is discounted or free travel. A common question among the +60 age group residing in the bustling city of London is whether they can benefit from free travel. The answer is yes, but there are specific conditions and requirements that need to be met.
Those who are 60 years or older and live in a London borough are eligible for a 60+ London Oyster photocard. This photocard grants free travel on buses, trains, and other modes of transport within and around London. However, it is essential to note that this free travel privilege is typically limited to certain times such as from 09:00 or 09:30 on weekdays, and any time on weekends and public holidays.
To obtain a 60+ London Oyster photocard, individuals need to apply through the Transport for London (TfL) website. It’s worth mentioning that once someone becomes eligible for a Freedom Pass, they should transfer their 60+ Oyster pass to it. The Freedom Pass extends these benefits to more services and times, enhancing the advantages available to older Londoners.
Free Travel for Over 60s in London
London offers several travel concessions for people aged 60 and over, ensuring accessible and affordable public transport options across the city. This section discusses two key provisions: the Freedom Pass and the 60+ London Oyster Photocard.
Freedom Pass
The Freedom Pass is available to older adults who have reached State Pension age and live in a London borough. It grants free access to a variety of public transport options, including buses, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, and some National Rail services within London. Elizabeth Line services are also covered when they become operational.
To apply for an Older Person’s Freedom Pass, check your eligibility and fill out an application on the London Councils website. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an Oyster card, which serves as your Freedom Pass. Simply touch in and out at the gates or validators, and you’ll be able to enjoy unlimited travel on London’s public transport network.
60+ London Oyster Photocard
For those who are aged 60 or over but have not yet reached the State Pension age, the 60+ London Oyster Photocard offers an alternative for free travel in London. This concession allows holders to travel for free on buses, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, and some National Rail services within the London fare zones.
To be eligible for a 60+ London Oyster Photocard, you must be 60 years of age or older and reside in a London borough. Applications can be submitted via the Transport for London (TfL) website. Once approved, you will receive an Oyster Photocard, which must be touched in and out at the gates or validators while travelling.
Keep in mind that the 60+ London Oyster Photocard is a temporary concession until you become eligible for the Freedom Pass. Upon reaching State Pension age, you will need to apply for the Freedom Pass to continue enjoying free travel across London.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for free travel in London if you are aged 60 or over, you can apply for the 60+ London Oyster photocard. This allows free travel on buses, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, and most National Rail services in London. Discounted fares are also available on River services and the Emirates Air Line. However, free travel on services outside London is not offered.
To qualify for a 60+ London Oyster photocard, you must:
- Be aged 60 or over
- Live in a London borough
If you meet the State Pension age, currently 66 for both women and men, you can apply for an Older Person’s Freedom Pass instead. This also provides free travel within and around London.
For disabled individuals, there is a Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass, which offers similar travel benefits.
Apply Online
To apply for a 60+ London Oyster photocard, visit the Transport for London (TfL) website. Older Person’s Freedom Pass and Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass applications can be made on the London Councils website.
Required Documents
To apply for a 60+ London Oyster photocard, Older Person’s Freedom Pass, or Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass, you will need the following information and documents:
- Proof of age (such as a birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of address (such as a bank statement, utility bill, or council tax bill)
- A passport-sized photograph
- National Insurance number (for Older Person’s Freedom Pass)
Remember to double-check your application’s details and requirements on the appropriate website before submitting.
Using the Pass and Travel Benefits
Coverage and Travel Options
If you are 60 or over and living in London, you can access free travel on buses, trains, and other modes of transport within and around the city using the 60+ London Oyster photocard.
The 60+ London Oyster photocard provides coverage for the following transport options:
- Buses
- Trains (including Thameslink)
- London Underground
- Docklands Light Railway
- London Overground
- Tram services
- River services (if operated by TfL)
Using Your Pass
To use your 60+ London Oyster photocard, you will need to touch in and out on the yellow card readers found at stations, on buses, and trams. Travel is free on weekdays from 09:00 and anytime on weekends and bank holidays for Older Person’s Freedom Pass holders, while Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass holders enjoy free travel at all times.
Remember to carry your 60+ London Oyster photocard with you at all times when travelling, as you might be asked to show it when using transport services.
Discounts and Offers
Aside from the free travel benefits, there are additional discounts available for 60+ London Oyster photocard holders and other eligible passengers such as disabled people and veterans. Some of these include:
- Pay as you go fares at a discounted rate for river services not operated by TfL
- Discounted travel for unemployed people seeking work in London through the Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card
- Santander Cycles membership discounts for easy access to the cycle hire scheme
For children under the age of 11, they can travel free on most TfL services when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket or Oyster card.