Gold Card bus pass for older people

People who reach the state pension retirement age (depending on your date of birth) are entitled to a free off-peak bus pass, known in Derby and Derbyshire as the Gold Card. It can also be used as a discount and library card.

What does the Gold Card offer?

The Gold Card offers free travel on local buses throughout England between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays, all day at weekends and on bank holidays. This includes the Park and Ride bus service anywhere on its route, although if you park a car, normal parking costs apply.

When can I apply?

You are no longer automatically eligible for a Gold Card on your 60th birthday. The date you can apply has changed to bring age-related benefits, like free bus travel, in line with the State Pension age increasing for women as well as men. These changes have been made across England and affect anyone born on or after 6th April 1950 to 5th April 1955. To find out when you can apply please use the State Pension age calculator. You can apply for a Gold Card two weeks before your State Pension age entitlement date.

If you were born after 5 April 1955, you can apply when you are 66.

How can I apply?

Online

The quickest and easiest way to apply is online.

Apply for an older person's Gold Card

Post

Residents are encouraged not to bring applications into the Council House. There is currently a limited facility to have your photograph taken at the Council House. If you can apply online, then please do so. Alternatively, if you have already downloaded an application form, you can send the completed form, along with a passport-sized photo and copies of your proof of age and address, to Concessionary Travel, Derby City Council, Council House, Corporation Street, Derby, DE1 2FS.

Your card will be posted to you within two weeks.

If you have any questions, please contact us online or telephone 01332 640000.

What happens if I lose my card?

There is a £5 charge to replace a lost pass. You can also apply online for a replacement card.

Your replacement card will be posted to you within two to three weeks.

Why is my card not working?

Ticket machines on buses throughout Derby and Derbyshire can detect cancelled Gold Cards.

A Gold Card may have been cancelled because:

• you told the Council your card was lost or stolen
• you've had multiple Gold Cards and are not using the most-up-to date card
• your Gold Card has been used fraudulently
• you no longer qualify for free travel.

If your card has not worked, the driver may let you travel for free but will advise you to get a new card. If you have a card because of your age, you can apply for a Gold Card online.

How do I renew my card?

Most Gold Cards are valid for up to five years but many will start to expire in the coming months.

Check the expiry date on your card now. If it's due to expire in 30 days, you can renew your card online.

Removal of travel concessions on Red Arrow X-38

Free travel will no longer be available on the Red Arrow bus service for concessionary card holders. Passengers can continue to travel for free on the following services that run between Derby and Nottingham: