Older person's bus pass

Service update: Friday 23 October

Concessionary Travel Team

Due to the current situation relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, staff are working from home and are unable to offer a counter service.

We aim to continue to issue bus passes, however this may not be as swiftly as we would like.

Please accept our apologies for the inconvenience, we hope to return to usual service standards as soon as possible.

Most bus passes that are due to expire in November and December will be automatically renewed and sent to customers. If you have not used your bus pass within the last 12 months or are not named on the Council Tax bill then you will need to contact us to renew.

If you apply by post there may be a delay in processing your application as we are reducing staff time in the office.

Please apply online when possible or email us a scanned copy of your application.

The customer service counter is closed. 

You can still:

• phone 01273 291 924 - if you leave a voicemail, a member of staff will phone you back during our operating hours of 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday
• send an email to buspasses@brighton-hove.gov.uk
• use the parking section of the website

Apply for your pass

• Apply for a new pass online The quickest way to get your new pass
• Apply for a new pass by post Download and post the application form to us
• Change your details Let us know if you've moved house or changed your contact details
• Bus pass replacement form online Please use this form if your pass has been lost, stolen or damaged

Eligibility for an older person's bus pass

You will be eligible for an older person’s bus pass on your 66th birthday.

Find out your eligibility date on GOV.UK.

Companion passes

Brighton & Hove City Council does not issue companion passes. Companion passes issued by other authorities are not valid for travel within Brighton & Hove.

If you're an unpaid carer, you may be able to get discounted travel from the bus company. 

Frequently asked questions 

How do I renew my bus pass?

You will receive a new bus pass automatically if your pass has been issued based on your age. If you have not used your bus pass within the last 12 months or are not named on the Council Tax bill then you will need to contact us to renew.

If you haven't received your renewed bus pass 3 weeks before your pass expires, please contact us on 01273 291924. If you leave a voicemail, a member of staff will phone you back during our operating hours of 9am-5pm Monday to Friday

What should I do if I lose my bus pass?

We usually advise to wait a few days before ordering a replacement as lost bus passes are often returned to us by Brighton & Hove Bus Company

If you would like to order a replacement, the easiest way to do this is online.

You’ll be charged £10 for a replacement bus pass. This fee is non-refundable.

What should I do if my bus pass is damaged or not working?

You will need to order a replacement and return your damaged bus pass to us.

The easiest way to order a replacement is online.

There is no charge for this if the damaged pass is returned. If we do not receive the damaged pass back it will be classed as lost and a charge of £10 will be payable.

What should I do if my bus pass is stolen?

You can request a replacement bus pass if you have a crime reference number.

The easiest way to order a replacement is online.

You’ll be charged £10 for a replacement bus pass. This fee is non-refundable.

Where and when can I use the bus pass?

Find information about Brighton & Hove night buses.

You can’t use your bus pass on trains, sightseeing buses, scheduled coach services, or outside of England.

How to apply for an older person's bus pass

The easiest way to apply for a bus pass is online.

You can also download an application form and post this to us with your supporting documentation. 

Brighton & Hove City Council are unable to refund bus pass fares while applications for new or replacement passes are being processed.

Please note that the bus passes are not made at Hove Town Hall. We need to order them from a separate company who will then send it to you directly.

To apply you will need:

• proof of your age
• proof of your address
• a photograph of you

If you are sending these documents by post please only send photocopies. Brighton & Hove City Council cannot be held responsible for documents that are lost in the post.

Proof of your age - This must show your current name and date of birth:

• birth certificate and marriage certificate if applicable
• driving licence – current or expired, photocard only
• passport – current or expired
• residence permit

Proof of your address in Brighton & Hove - This must be dated within the last 3 months

This can be any letter which has been sent to you. A Council Tax bill can be used if it is dated for the current year

Photograph

You will need one recent passport style colour photograph with a plain light background. A photograph may be taken on a smartphone or camera and emailed to us. Headwear, unless for religious or medical purposes, and sunglasses are not to be worn.