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Pensions and +65s

Free Travel Scheme

What is the Free Travel Scheme?

The Free Travel Scheme is a benefit provided by the Irish government that allows certain individuals to travel for free on public transport. It's primarily intended for those aged 66 and over who are legally living permanently in Ireland. However, some individuals under the age of 66 can also qualify for the scheme under certain conditions.

How to qualify for the Free Travel Scheme:

  • Everyone aged 66 or over who is living permanently in Ireland
  • Certain individuals under the age of 66 who are living permanently in Ireland

    • If you're under the age of 66, you can qualify if:

  • you're receiving certain benefits such as the Disability Allowance, Blind Pension, Carer's Allowance, or an Invalidity Pension
  • are blind or visually impaired and meet the medical conditions for Blind Pension
  • have been receiving Incapacity Supplement with Disablement Pension for at least 12 months
  • are a specified carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relative's Allowance
  • are getting a social security invalidity payment (or similar payment) from another EU member state or from a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement for at least 12 months

    • Free Travel Companion Card:

    In some cases, you may qualify for a Free Travel Companion Card. This card allows a companion to travel with you for free. No one else can use your Free Travel Card, it is for you only.

    Your Public Services Card (PSC) will display one of the following codes in the top left-hand corner to identify if you can avail of free travel with a spouse, partner, cohabitant or companion:

  • FT - P - only you can avail of free travel
  • FT + S - your spouse, partner or cohabitant can travel with you for free
  • FT + C - a companion who is over 16 can travel with you for free

    • If you have a Free Travel Card but are unable to travel alone due to a medical condition, you can apply for a Free Travel Companion Card using the:

  • FT O/70 application form if you are 70 or over
  • FT U/70 application form if you are under 70

    • How to Apply:

    If you are aged 66 or over, the department will automatically send you a Free Travel Card If you are getting a social welfare pension and have confirmed your identity through the SAFE registration process.

    If you're under the age of 66 and meet the qualifying conditions, you can apply for the Free Travel Scheme by using the Free Travel Scheme: Registration Form (FT1).

    To apply for the Free Travel Scheme fill in your required form or request one from your local Intreo Centre.

    Return your completed application form along with your supporting documents to:

    Free Travel Section
    Address: Social Welfare Services,
    Department of Social Protection,
    College Road,
    Sligo,
    Co. Sligo,
    F91 T384

    Website: www.gov.ie/freetravel/
    Email: freetravelqueries@welfare.ie
    Phone Number: 0818 200 400 or (071) 915 7100

    Free Travel in Northern Ireland:

    If you're 66 or over, hold a Free Travel Card, and want to avail of free travel within Northern Ireland, you must obtain a Senior SmartPass Card.

    Applications must be made in person at your local Intreo Centre.


    Free Travel Scheme: Replacement SmartPass card Application Form (FTNI2)