Overview
In Scotland, concessionary travel gives free or discounted trips on public transport to eligible disabled people, older people and younger people. This information guide outlines the main travel concessions available, who qualifies, what they cost, and how to apply. Concessions may apply to buses, coaches, trains and ferries.
National Entitlement Card (NEC)
The National Entitlement Card (NEC) gives free or discounted access to bus and coach travel and some local railway and ferry routes in Scotland.
You may qualify because you are
- aged 60 and over
- under 22
- disabled: transport Scotland explains the criteria for disabled people here Eligibility and Conditions for the 60+ or Disabled Traveller (transport.gov.scot)
If you are disabled you may also be entitled to a “companion” card if you qualify.
Ferry Concessions
Residents of the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland who have a National Entitlement Card can get two free return ferry journeys to the mainland each year to travel as a foot passenger. When you apply for your National Entitlement Card your council will send your ferry vouchers, and will send you additional ferry vouchers each year.
Some Scottish councils use the card for other services such as library/leisure memberships, cashless catering in schools and taxi travel for disabled people.
You can find out how to apply for your National Entitlement Card Contact here Apply Now | National Entitlement Card (nec.scot).
You will need:
- a recent photograph
- proof of age or disability
- proof of your current address
If you need to renew or replace your card you can find out how to do this here Replacement Cards | National Entitlement Card (nec.scot)
Disabled Persons Railcard
If you have a disability that makes travelling by train difficult you might qualify for the Disabled Persons Railcard. This allows you to get 1/3 off most rail fares throughout Great Britain. If you are travelling with an adult companion they can also get 1/3 off their rail fare. The Disabled Persons Railcard costs £20 for a one year card and £54 for a three year card.
You can find information about who qualifies here Are You Eligible – Disabled Persons Railcard (disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk)
You can apply for a Disabled Persons railcard online using the “buy now” button on this page Disabled Persons Railcard | Official Retailer | National Rail (disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk).
You will need
- A passport-style photo of you saved on your device or computer.
- Proof of eligibility.
- A valid debit/credit card
A Disabled Person’s railcard is available either as a plastic card or as a railcard app on your phone.
If you prefer not to apply online you can download an application form from this page Where to Buy – Disabled Persons Railcard (disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk) and send it to the address shown.
In Scotland, Scotrail also offer “Club 50” discounts Club 50 Railcard & Train Pass | Over 50 Discount | ScotRail
Senior Railcard
With a Senior Railcard anyone aged 60 or over can save 1/3 on all Standard and First Class, Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares. It costs for £30 for 1 year or £70 for 3 years. You can purchase one from the Senior Railcard website here Senior Railcard | Official Retailer | National Rail (senior-railcard.co.uk) or from a staffed railway station (1 year card only).
In Scotland, Scotrail also offer “Club 50” discounts Club 50 Railcard & Train Pass | Over 50 Discount | ScotRail
Community transport schemes
Community transport schemes such as Dial-a-Ride and Taxi-card offer transport options for people with restricted mobility or who are unable to use public transport. Contact your local council to see what community transport schemes are available within your area and how you can apply.
The Community Transport Association has created a map of available community transport services Community Transport Map of Scotland – Google My Maps
Call our helpline on 0300 323 9961 if you need help to find community transport locally.
Information last updated on 8 August 2024. Please note that information may be subject to change. All information is provided in good faith but Disability Information Scotland does not endorse any product or service referred to within this resource.
If you would like this information guide in another version then please contact us and we will post or email you a copy.
Mobility, Travel and Transport:Frequently Asked Questions
Through our helpline we receive enquiries spanning a wide range of different topics. Here is a selection of those most asked:
Can I get a reduction of Vehicle Excise Duty?
If you are disabled you may be entitled to a reduction or exemption of vehicle tax. The vehicle must be registered in your name or a specific driver’s name and must only be used for your personal needs.
You can apply for exemption if you get the:
- higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- enhanced rate mobility component of Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
- War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
You can get a 50% reduction in vehicle tax if you get the Personal Independence Payment or Adult Disability Payment standard rate mobility component Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
You can find out more here Vehicles exempt from vehicle tax – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
How can I get a disabled parking space outside my house?
If you need a disabled parking space outside your house, contact your council. They will assess your circumstances and may charge for this.
To qualify, you must
- have a current blue badge
- either be the driver of the vehicle or be assisted by a carer who is the driver if they live where the space is needed
- keep the vehicle at the address you give on the application form
- normally have difficulty getting a perking space on the public road.
A disabled parking space can be used by anyone with a blue badge, not just the person who applied for it.
For further information or help searching for your local council’s contact number then please contact our helpline on 0300 323 9961.
For more information on getting a blue badge, check out our Blue Badges Information Guide.
Mobility, Travel and Transport:Search for Local Organisations
Our quick search tool can connect you to over 3000 service providers, suppliers and organisations supporting people across Scotland. To find support near you, simply enter your search term and select your local authority.
| Organisation | Description |
|---|---|
| Gov.uk – Government website | The online home of government services and information. Gov.uk replaces the Directgov and Business Link sites. |
| Gowrings Mobility | Provide transport solutions for wheelchair users |
| Handicabs – HCL – Edinburgh, East Lothian & Midlothian | Provides door-to-door transport service for people with limited mobility |
| Handicabs – HCL (West Lothian) | Dial-a-ride transport service |
| Homelands Trust-Fife (SCIO) | The Homelands Trust is a registered, Scottish charity (SC047615). It has 9 purpose-built self-catering lodges, designed to meet the needs of disabled people. The lodges are located in the pretty seaside village of Lundin Links in Fife. Set in mature wo… |
| HWB Mobility | Bespoke, British made riser recliner chairs, healthcare chairs and adjustable beds with delivery, setup and a demonstration included throughout mainland Britain. We also supply profiling beds, pressure care mattresses, hoists, rollators and lots… |
| Inverness Voluntary Transport Scheme | Affordable transport to community health facilities such as Doctors, Dentists, Opticians and other Primary Care facilities |
| J.D. Peace and Co (Aberdeen Ltd) | Coach hire company |
| John Laing & Sons Est 1883 | We have specialised in bathroom Wet Floor adaptations and installations for both North Lanarkshire Council Grant Scheme and the Private Sector for over forty years. As well as all aspects of Plumbing and heating. As as established family run business… |
| John O’ Groats Ferries | Operate a passenger ferry service from John O’ Groats to Orkney |