New smart card for elderly and disabled people in Scotland

This card was introduced by the Scottish Executive on 1 April 2006. It entitles the holder to free bus travel throughout Scotland. Routes to and from Scotland commencing or terminating in Berwick upon Tweed and Carlisle are included. The card is free.

People with a visual impairement are also entitled to free train travel throughout Scotland, including the Glasgow underground. Their card shows a visual impairment sign (eye crossed with lines) in the bottom right hand corner of their card.

Arrangements for free train travel are made between local councils and the train operators. All three councils in the GSB area, Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray continue to operate and finance the scheme.

Card holders do not require a ticket for the trains and seats on trains throughout Scotland can be booked via the disabled persons help line on 0845 6057021.

Holders of the Scottish Blind Person’s Travel Card need to apply for the new smart card before 1st July 2006. The Society can help with this.

If you are entitled to a companion, this is indicated by a +1 sign on your card.

Companions travel free on buses, but pay full fares on trains.

Card holders travel free on ferries - check with individual ferry companies for details about companions, cars etc.

Taxi Cards

All people registered as blind or partially sighted in all three council areas can hold a taxi card. This entitles you to a discount on fares. Please contact us for further details on your area.