National Entitlement Card

5 to 21 year olds living in Scotland can apply to get free bus travel.

You must apply for a new or replacement card to travel by bus for free - even if you already have a National Entitlement Card (NEC) or a Young Scot Card.

How to apply for new and replacement cards

Before you apply - check the proof documents you need - all age groups have to provide proof of eligibility with the application.

• 0 to 4 years old - no card required, bus travel is free
• 5 to 10 years old - apply for a Junior NEC - your parent or guardian has to apply on your behalf
• 11 to 15 year old - apply for either a Young Scot NEC or a NEC - your parent or guardian has to apply on your behalf
• 16 to 21 years old and you don't have a current NEC - apply for either a Young Scot NEC or a NEC - you can apply yourself
• 16 to 21 years old and you have a current NEC - apply for either a Young Scot NEC or a NEC - you can apply yourself

Transport Scotland have updated the video guides that show how to apply for young persons’ free bus travel through getyournec.scot. These  new guides show the recent updates to the application process/website

• how to request a replacement card with free bus travel - https://youtu.be/Qww1k54WM8M
• how to apply for a card for your child - https://youtu.be/AW1WAugC62U

Help to apply

If you cannot or do not want to apply online: download an application form and take it along with any required proofs to your local East Lothian library. We will order an National Entitlement Card for you.

If you need further help email us: smartcard@eastlothian.gov.uk or call 01620 827827 and ask for Smartcards.