The English National Concessionary Travel Pass replaced the existing Somerset Travel Pass from Tuesday 1 April 2008.
If you had a valid Somerset travel pass you should have automatically received the new national pass. If you have recently moved house or your personal details have changed since you were issued with your current pass please ensure that you notify the Cashiers Department in writing either by email or letter addressed to: The Cashiers Dept, Council Offices, Brympton Way, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 2HT.
Applying for a pass
If you are over 60 or are registered disabled, and have not already applied for a bus pass then we advise that you complete an
application form [65kb] as soon as possible. The new English National Concessionary Travel Passes (bus passes) use the latest "smartcard" technology and for this reason they are being produced by a national contractor.
Because of the large numbers of applications being received nationally we are currently experiencing some delays in the processing, production and distribution of passes. Whilst we expect this to improve we advise that you make your application well in advance of your intended date of travel. In the initial stages of the new scheme we would advise that you allow 6 weeks from making the application to delivery. Once the initial surge of applications has passed please allow a minimum of 28 days.
Where can I use the national pass?
The new national bus pass is valid anywhere in England (but not Wales and Scotland) for off-peak local bus journeys from 9.30am until 11.00pm Monday – Friday and all day weekends and bank holidays.
In Somerset you will continue to be able to use your pass from 9.00am on weekdays for those journeys that start within the County of Somerset.
Companion Pass
If you have previously qualified for a Companion Pass we will continue to offer this concession for journeys that start or finish in Somerset and your new pass will show a "+C" to indicate this. You may not be able to use this Companion Pass in other local authority areas and it is advisable to check with that local authority before travelling. For more information please see the frequently asked questions section.
Within Somerset, your new travel pass will continue to be accepted on designated journeys provided by Community Transport. This may not be the case in other areas and you should confirm with the Local Community Transport provider before travelling.