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Where and when you can use Free Travel

This topic gives a plain language overview of where your Free Travel card or pass can usually be used, and the main exceptions to know about.

Use this topic if you or someone you support:
  • Recognise the main types of transport where Free Travel is accepted
  • Know that there are special arrangements for some islands and cross border journeys
  • Understand common situations where Free Travel does not apply
  • Know when to ask the operator or Free Travel Section for confirmation

Note

This page offers plain language guidance. It is not a legal document.
Only the Department of Social Protection (DSP) can make an official decision about free travel eligibility.

Quick overview

In general, Free Travel can be used on:

  • Most public bus services in Ireland
  • Most rail services run by Iarnród Éireann
  • Luas in Dublin
  • Many Local Link and some private bus and ferry operators that display the Free Travel logo

There are also special arrangements for some islands and cross border journeys.

Free Travel does not cover every operator or every route.

Open each section for the details that matter to you

Public transport in Ireland

You can usually use a valid Free Travel card or pass on:

  • City and regional buses within Ireland
  • Bus services that run between towns
  • Most scheduled Irish Rail services, including commuter and intercity routes
  • Luas tram services in Dublin

When you board:

  • Have your Free Travel card or pass ready to show
  • Follow the driver’s or inspector’s instructions. for example touching on with a card if asked
  • Keep your card or pass with you for the whole journey in case there are ticket checks

If you are unsure whether a specific route accepts Free Travel, check:

  • The operator’s website or customer service line, or
  • Information at the bus or train station
Local Link and some private operators

In many parts of the country, you can also use Free Travel on:

  • Local Link rural transport services
  • Some private bus or ferry services that have an agreement with the Department of Social Protection

Look for:

  • The Free Travel logo at stops, on vehicles or on the operator’s website
  • Notes on timetables that say “Free Travel Pass accepted” or similar wording

If you do not see clear information:

  • Contact the operator directly and ask whether they accept the Free Travel pass issued by the Department of Social Protection
  • If they do not, you may have to pay the normal fare
Special arrangements for certain islands

Free Travel includes some special arrangements for particular islands. This usually means that:

  • You may be able to use Free Travel on approved ferry services to. or from. the island
  • In some cases, local island bus services may also accept Free Travel

Common examples include:

  • Aran Islands
  • Tory Island

Because arrangements can change, always:

  • Check the island ferry operator’s information in advance
  • Confirm that they accept the Free Travel card or pass on the route you plan to use

If you live on an island, you may have extra local entitlements. Ask your Citizens Information Centre to explain these.

Cross border journeys

Free Travel is mainly for travel within Ireland, but in some cases it can be used on cross border journeys between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

In practice this may mean:

  • Certain bus or rail services that start in Ireland and end in Northern Ireland, or
  • Journeys that start in Northern Ireland and end in Ireland

Key points:

  • Not every cross border route is covered
  • Some services require a Senior SmartPass instead of. or as well as. an Irish Free Travel card
  • Travel that is entirely within Northern Ireland uses different rules

If your journey involves Northern Ireland:

  • First check Overview of Free Travel in Ireland for cross border information
  • If you are 66 or over and plan to travel within Northern Ireland only, see Apply for a Senior SmartPass card for Northern Ireland (FTNI1)
  • If you already have a Senior SmartPass, follow the rules issued with that card
When Free Travel does not cover a journey

Free Travel does not usually cover:

  • Private tour buses or tourist sightseeing services
  • Long distance coaches or airport services that do not show the Free Travel logo
  • International trains, buses or ferries beyond Ireland and Northern Ireland
  • Taxis, hackneys or private hire cars

In these cases you must pay the normal fare, even if you show your Free Travel card.

If you are ever unsure:

  1. Ask before you board

  2. Show your card and ask. “Is this Free Travel card valid on this service?”

  3. Have a backup plan

  4. If the service is not covered, decide whether you are happy to pay the fare or whether you need to choose another route that accepts Free Travel