The Good News about Disabled Bus Passes in 2026

If you've ever had to turn down an early shift, reschedule a hospital appointment, or leave a night out early because your bus pass wouldn't cover the fare, this update is for you.

‍

From April 2027, the time restrictions on the Disabled Person's Bus Pass are being lifted across England. Right now, most passes only work between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays, which means anyone travelling earlier or later has to pay full price. It's a rule that's caught out a lot of people trying to get to work, college, or an early appointment, and it's meant very different experiences depending on where you live, since some local councils have already chosen to fund longer hours themselves.

‍

These time restrictions are coming to an end. The government has committed £60 million to fund free, round-the-clock bus travel for pass holders everywhere in the country, so it won't matter anymore which postcode you're in.

‍

The disabled-led campaign group Transport for All has been pushing for this change for years, backed by more than 50 organisations. Their research found that over a third of disabled people said the 9.30am cut-off was actually stopping them from using their pass at all. Greater Manchester has already led the way, having permanently scrapped the restrictions on its Bee Network buses in March.

‍

It's a small change on paper, but for anyone who's had to plan their whole day around a bus timetable rule, it makes a real difference to everyday independence.

‍

About the National Disability & Carers Card Scheme‍

If you use a disabled person's bus pass, you are eligible for the National Disability Card. The National Disability & Carers Card scheme was set up in 2019 by carers to make everyday life and access easier for people with disabilities and those who care for them. The scheme supports 250,000 card holders and provides easy-to-carry visual identification that helps users avoid repeatedly explaining their disability or caring role. The National Disability Card is accepted as proof of disability at 600+ venues across the UK and abroad. Apply for your card today.