How to get or replace your NEC

Young person's free bus travel scheme

How to access the free bus scheme for young people

Young people aged 5 to 21 and living in Scotland can now apply to access free bus travel.

Find out more about the free bus travel scheme and how to apply

If you're unable to apply online, you can visit one of our libraries. More information about opening times can be found on the library directory. You must download and complete the NEC application form before you attend.

You will be asked for identification to go alongside your application. If applying in the library, you need to bring the following documents with you   

5-10 years (parent/guardian required to apply)

  • birth certificate or passport
  • if your address is different to your parent, proof of address

11-15 years (parent /guardian required to apply)

  • birth certificate or passport
  • proof of address (can be in the parent’s name)
  • proof of photo or existing Young Scot card (passport or photo referee and birth certificate)
  • passport photograph

16 years and over

  • proof of person (passport, Young Scot card, birth certificate, driver’s licence)
  • proof of address
  • proof of photo or existing Young Scot card (passport or photo referee and birth certificate)
  • passport photograph

If you have questions about the scheme email Transport Scotland at concessionarytravel@transport.gov.scot.

If you need further help with documentation and proof of identification, please email one-edinburgh@edinburgh.gov.uk or your local library.

New Transport Scot Pass Collect mobile application

Transport Scotland have now launched an app to help people aged 16 to 21 access free bus travel.

The new Transport Scot Pass Collect mobile application lets anyone aged 16 to 21 who already have a Young Scot National Entitlement Card or non-Young Scot branded card to transfer free bus travel onto their NEC card, without having to apply for a replacement card.