Free NJ Transit Rides: Fare Holiday Through Labor Day
NJ Transit riders can travel without a ticket from August 26 through September 2, 2024.
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New Jersey Transit is free for riders from August 26 through September 2, 2024. Riders do not have to purchase or present a ticket on any train, bus or light rail for one week. The fare holiday is as a way of saying "Thank you" to customers after a trying period of uneven service.
“Understanding that our commuters have faced many disruptions this summer, we are providing a one-week fare holiday for NJ TRANSIT riders,” said Governor Murphy . “As we work diligently with Amtrak to investigate and address the issues that have occurred this summer, especially on the Northeast Corridor, we hope this fare holiday offers our commuters some relief."
The sting of poor service was compounded by fare increases unanimously approved by NJ Transit’s board of directors in April. Fares for riders went up by 15% and took effect in July.
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Service disruptions hindered summer travel
June was a tough month for NJ Transit riders. I personally witnessed the dismay of day-tippers and disgust of commuters when they experienced the third of three significant delays one week in June during a heatwave.
The tracks used by NJ Transit are owned and also used by Amtrack. "NJ TRANSIT has been working tirelessly advancing the joint plan with Amtrak announced immediately following Governor Murphy’s meeting with NJ TRANSIT and Amtrak leadership on June 27, 2024, to improve service on this critical rail line – the busiest corridor in the country", according to a press release .
New Jersey Rep. Josh Gottheimer recently introduced legislation to guarantee NJ Transit and Amtrak riders refunds when they face disruptions. According to Gottheimer’s office, more than 650 NJ Transit trains were canceled in June alone, reports the Gothamist .
The press release further stated that "NJ TRANSIT personnel have increased equipment inspections on platforms, while Amtrak has stepped up its efforts in inspecting and repairing their catenary (overhead wire), track signal systems, and substations along the NEC. These collaborative efforts have already led to a noticeable decrease in infrastructure-related incidents."
Services NOT included in the fare holiday
The fare holiday does not include PATH or PATCO services. It also does not include the AirTrain at Newark Liberty International Airport. Vouchers for travel via third parties in the Access Link Riders Choice program will still be required.
Parking fees remain in effect at NJ Transit facilities during the fare holiday as well.
Monthly pass holders get a bonus too
Monthly transit pass holders were not overlooked in the fare holiday running this week on NJ Transit.
Train riders that already purchased their August passes will automatically receive a 25% discount on their September monthly pass purchase through the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App, at Ticket Vending Machines or ticket windows.
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Asia-Pacific:
Public holidays in apac:.
- Jan. 1 - New Year's Day
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Bank Holidays in Europe:
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- May 20 – Whit Monday / Pentecost Monday (Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland)
- May 30 - Corpus Christi (Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Poland)
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- Dec. 26 – St. Stephens Day / Boxing Day
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United Kingdom:
Bank holidays in the uk & northern ireland:.
- Jan. 1 - New Year's Day (All United Kingdom and Northern Ireland)
- Jan. 2 - January bank holiday (Scotland)
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- March 18 - St. Patrick's Day (substitute day) (Northern Ireland, Ireland)
- March 29 - Good Friday (All United Kingdom and North Ireland)
- April 1 - Easter Monday (England and Wales, Northern Ireland, Ireland)
- May 6 - Early May Bank Holiday (All United Kingdom and Northern Ireland)
- May 27 - Spring bank holiday (England and Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland)
- June 3 - First Monday in June (Ireland)
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- Aug. 5 - First Monday in August (Ireland)
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- Oct. 28 - Last Monday in October (Ireland)
- Dec. 2 - St. Andrew's Day (substitute day) (Scotland)
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United States:
Public holidays in the us:.
- Jan. 15 - Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Feb. 19 - Presidents' Day
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Entrance passes.
Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.
Frequent visitors, seniors , military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.
Entrance Pass Comparison
National parks that charge an entrance fee require visitors to purchase or obtain a standard pass, park-specific annual pass, or America the Beautiful pass. Visitors only need one of these.
Standard Pass
- For one national park
- For 1–7 days
- Directly funds the park
Recommended for
One trip to one park
Entrance fees and passes by park
Annual Pass
- For one national park or park group
- Not available for every park
- Multiple trips to one park
- One or more trips to one park group
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America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass
- Covers entrance fees and standard amenity fees (day-use fees) at Federal recreational sites, including national parks
- 1 year and lifetime options
- Seniors , military, visitors with permanent disabilities
- One or more trips to multiple parks
More about America the Beautiful Passes
Reservations and Timed Entry
When planning a visit to a national park, check if you need a reservation. Some national parks use a timed entry system to manage vehicle traffic. Other parks use tour reservations to manage access to a building or natural feature. Reservations are typically made available through recreation.gov on a rolling basis. If you need a reservation, we recommend making it well in advance.
Parks with reservations
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Covers entrance fees and standard amenity (day-use) fees at lands managed by
- National Park Service
- US Fish & Wildlife Service
- US Forest Service
- Bureau of Land Management
- Bureau of Reclamation
- US Army of Corps of Engineers
Depending on the type of entrance fee charged at a site, covers One private vehicle fee or Four per person fees
America the Beautiful Passes are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen . Passholders must show valid photo identification (ID) with each pass.
How to Get an America the Beautiful Pass
In person (recommended).
Passes can be purchased or picked up at over 1,000 federal recreation sites.
Purchase and pickup locations
Order Online, Receive by Mail
To receive your pass by mail, order online at the USGS Online Store . Online orders are for physical passes, not digital passes, and may take up to three weeks to be processed and delivered. Order receipts may not be used in place of a physical pass. We recommend ordering at least three weeks in advance of your visit, or picking up a pass in person instead.
Visiting soon? Pick up a pass when you arrive.
America the Beautiful Passes ordered online through the USGS Online Store may take up to three weeks to be processed and delivered. Get your pass at one of over 1,000 purchase and pickup locations to avoid the wait.
Senior Passes
US citizens and permanent residents ages 62 and older can purchase an annual America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for $20.00, or a lifetime version for $80.00. Applicants must provide documentation of age and residency or citizenship.
- The Senior Pass may provide a 50 percent discount on some amenity fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, boat launch, and specialized interpretive services.
- The Senior Pass generally does NOT cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessioners.
- Passes may not be purchased as gifts since eligible recipient must show proof of eligibility.
Annual Senior Pass
Lifetime senior pass, golden age passports and golden access passports.
Golden Age Passports and Golden Access Passports are no longer sold. However, these passes are still honored according to the provisions of the pass.
We encourage you to exchange your Golden Age/Golden Access Passport for a current Lifetime Senior Pass for free. You can exchange in-person at sites that issue passes. Please bring your old pass and photo identification with you.
Annual Passes and Park Groups
While most annual park passes are limited to one national park, a few sites offer an annual pass valid at multiple national parks, federal recreational lands, or state parks.
Free Entrance Days
Come experience the national parks! On six days in 2024, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee–free dates in 2024:
- January 15: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- April 20: First day of National Park Week
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 28: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
Your Fee Dollars at Work
All the money from entrance fees remains in the National Park Service, and at least 80 percent stays in the park where it was collected. Learn more about how entrance fees are used to improve the visitor experience .
Oasis tickets: Maximise your chances and avoid these mistakes - and how much they cost
Noel and Liam Gallagher have put a 15-year feud behind them to get the band back together. "Come see. It will not be televised," they warned in their announcement. So how can you get tickets?
Friday 30 August 2024 07:58, UK
![travel pass ni Noel and Liam Gallagher pictured a Wembley Stadium in 2008. Pic: Zak Hussein/PA](https://e3.365dm.com/24/08/768x432/skynews-liam-gallagher-noel-gallagher_6667968.jpg?20240827104801)
Oasis are finally reuniting 15 years after they split, having announced a huge UK tour.
The iconic Manchester band's official social media accounts shared the dates of its 14 UK and Ireland shows, which will take place over July and August next year.
Speculation about a reunion grew in the weeks leading up to the announcement after years of Noel and Liam Gallagher's public feuding had made fans question whether it would ever happen.
"Come see. It will not be televised," they warned in their statement .
But when exactly are the dates for the brothers' on-stage reunion and how can you get tickets? Here's everything you need to know.
When and where are the concerts?
• 4 July 2025 - Principality Stadium, Cardiff • 5 July 2025 - Principality Stadium, Cardiff • 11 July 2025 - Heaton Park, Manchester • 12 July 2025 - Heaton Park, Manchester • 16 July 2025 - Heaton Park, Manchester • 19 July 2025 - Heaton Park, Manchester • 20 July 2025 - Heaton Park, Manchester • 25 July 2025 - Wembley Stadium, London • 26 July 2025 - Wembley Stadium, London • 30 July 2025 - Wembley Stadium, London • 2 August 2025 - Wembley Stadium, London • 3 August 2025 - Wembley Stadium, London • 8 August 2025 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh • 9 August 2025 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh • 12 August 2025 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh • 16 August 2025 - Croke Park, Dublin • 17 August 2025 - Croke Park, Dublin
How expensive are tickets?
Here's a breakdown of what we know about the prices:
More on Oasis
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Noel Gallagher jokes about Oasis break-up as he responds to fan's children while shopping in London
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Oasis announce extra UK dates for reunion concert tour
![travel pass ni Oasis performing at Glastonbury in 2004. Pic: Shutterstock](https://e3.365dm.com/24/08/192x108/skynews-oasis-liam-gallagher_6669214.jpg?20240828145017)
Oasis shut down Glastonbury rumours with strong statement after reunion announcement
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Wembley Stadium, London
A seat to watch the band in London begins at £74.25, with the most expensive ticket a £506.25 pre-show party, exhibition and seated package.
Standing tickets will cost fans £151.25.
Heaton Park, Manchester
In the band's home city, tickets start from £148.50, with only standing available alongside a number of hospitality and luxury packages.
Principality Stadium, Cardiff
The cheapest seats are £73, according to promoter SJM Concerts, which runs the website Gigs And Tours. Standing tickets will cost £150.
Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh
Tickets for the gig at the 67,000-capacity stadium start at £74, SJM Concerts say, adding standing tickets will cost £151.
Croke Park, Dublin
Before the announcement for UK shows, Irish promoters MCD said on its website that the price of both of the two Croke Park gigs in Dublin will start at 86.50 euros (£72.75) without booking fees.
When do tickets go on sale and how can I get them?
All tickets will go on sale on Saturday 31 August. The Dublin dates will be on sale from 8am and the UK dates will go on sale at 9am .
🚨REGISTER FOR THE UK & IRELAND 2025 TOUR PRE-SALE BALLOT🚨 A ticket pre-sale will be held on Friday 30th August, ahead of Saturday’s general sale. To ensure the maximum number of fans have a fair opportunity to access tickets, applicants will be selected for the pre-sale via a… pic.twitter.com/spP24NemBV — Oasis (@oasis) August 27, 2024
But fans can now register to be in a pre-sale ballot until 10am (UK time) on Friday morning.
The deadline was originally 7pm on Wednesday but the band changed it due to "a last minute surge" in entries.
Successful applicants in the ballot will be informed by 5pm on Friday via email with full access information, however, this does not guarantee fans a ticket as they are still sold on a first come first served basis.
The band has warned fans on social media that confirmation emails for the ballot entry may be delayed due to a high volume of people signing up, but has assured them that anyone who has filled in a ballot correctly before the deadline will receive one.
Tickets for UK performances can be bought from the following sites:
• ticketmaster.co.uk • gigsandtours.com • www.seetickets.com
For the Ireland dates you need to go to ticketmaster.ie .
Be warned: you must register
The band's official website has "strongly advised" anyone hoping to purchase tickets to register in advance of the sale with the relevant ticket agencies.
Top tips for getting tickets
The ticket sites offer key advice for fans looking to have an edge over others in the race for in-demand tickets.
Here's a summary of their biggest tips:
• Don't wait until Saturday morning to register. This will mean you have plenty of time to get your account set up with all the right billing and delivery information • Verify your account. You have to add your phone number and confirm a one-time passcode with new accounts for protection. You only need to do it once • If you already have an account, double-check it. It's worth logging in before Saturday just to check you know your password, your delivery and billing information is all correct, and to ensure you've already completed your one-time passcode • Make sure your card details are already saved to avoid last-minute scrambling • Get your phones and laptops charged before the deadline • Make sure you're happy with your internet connection. Private WiFi is best, and if that isn't working, Ticketmaster advises using your mobile data over public WiFi, which it says is "usually the least reliable" • Don't refresh the page while in a waiting room. Ticketing sites use a queuing system when they get busy, meaning you get put in an online waiting room with other fans. They warn that refreshing the page won't move you further up the line, and that the page itself updates automatically. So once you're in, wait it out...
How many tickets can I buy and how expensive could they be?
You can get a maximum of four tickets per transaction, and you aren't permitted to sell them for more than you bought them for, according to event organisers.
The price of tickets hasn't been announced yet, though the Manchester Evening News has reported they are expected to exceed £100.
Read more: Cool Britannia: Life in the UK in the '90s A timeline of Britpop's most successful band
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Back in 2009, just over a month before Oasis split, the band performed at Wembley Stadium and charged £38.50 plus VAT (which at the time was 15%), meaning the total cost was just over £44.
When Sky News put those numbers into the Bank of England's inflation calculator, the total was £68.02 - which is still considered low nowadays.
Will there be another chance to buy tickets?
There won't be another official sale, but you may be able to snatch resale tickets.
On its website, Oasis says it has partnered with Ticketmaster and ticket resale platform Twickets to ensure tickets aren't resold for more than the price originally paid - including booking fees.
The band has also warned those reselling the tickets that selling through any other platforms will breach the terms and conditions of the sale and may result in the tickets being cancelled.
Do you even deserve tickets?
Since the announcement, social media has been flooded by debate about who this concert is really for.
"What's your favourite B-side?" - an eligibility test being used by people who "were at Knebworth".
Die-hard Oasis fans who were there in the 90s will say they are the ones who most deserve to get their hands on tickets.
"Imagine waiting 15 years for Oasis to reform only to lose out on tickets to Chloe, 21 from Stockport who just wants to hear Wonderwall live", one X user posts.
In response, another writes: "Obsessed with all the men creating fictional young women who they might lose out on Oasis tickets to."
Analysis by Gemma Peplow , culture and entertainment reporter
"Like most kids, my parents influenced my music taste growing up, from Bruce Springsteen and Tina Turner to the Rolling Stones.
"Kylie Minogue, obviously, was also a big feature in my cassette collection.
"But Oasis were the first band that felt like mine, not music I'd inherited.
"As a teenager I listened over and over, studied the album covers, and went on to see them live five times, each gig holding different memories and anecdotes. For those of us who grew up with them, they embodied our youth, the spirit of the '90s.
"But that doesn't mean these gigs belong to the older fans, which, like it or not, is the bracket I fall into now. You only have to see all the teenagers and younger adults at Liam's solo shows to see how Oasis's songs resonate with different generations. The music has stood the test of time, which can only be a good thing.
"Those gatekeeping fans are most likely the same as those complaining about how all music is rubbish these days. Well, you can't have it both ways.
"If I'm lucky enough to get tickets, I hope to be singing along with bucket-hat wearing fans of all ages."
Related Topics
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Free travel in Ireland
What is the free travel scheme, how to use free travel, where can i use free travel, how to qualify for free travel, how to apply for free travel, where to apply for free travel, senior smartpass for travelling in northern ireland.
The Free Travel Scheme allows you to travel, free of charge, on public transport and some private bus and ferry services.
Everyone aged 66 and over, living permanently in Ireland, can get the Free Travel Scheme.
People with disabilities and carers aged under 66 may also qualify for Free Travel.
If you qualify for Free Travel and you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, your partner may travel with you for free if you meet certain criteria (see ‘Spouses, civil partners and cohabitants’ below).
If you can’t travel alone for medical reasons, you may get Free Travel for a companion. This allows a person aged over 16 to travel with you for free.
Changes to the Free Travel Scheme in 2024
From 29 July 2024, you will qualify for the Free Travel Scheme if you are aged over 17 and under 66, and:
- Have never been able to drive due to a disability
- Have a driving licence and are medically certified as ‘not fit to drive’ for at least 12 months.
While the change won’t take effect until July, you can download and fill in an application form for Free Travel for people medically certified unfit to drive (FTM) (pdf) now.
In this case, your spouse, civil partner, or cohabitant cannot accompany you free of charge when travelling.
If you qualify for Free Travel, your Public Services Card (PSC) will have FT (for Free Travel) in the top left-hand corner. The letter following it shows who can travel for free with you:
- FT-P - you can travel for free
- FT+S - your spouse, partner or cohabitant can travel with you for free
- FT+C - you can have a person (over 16) travel with you for free
You must show or scan your Public Services Card to the travel operator when you are travelling on public transport. Find out more about 'How to use your public services card for free travel' .
Paper travel passes are no longer being issued but you can still use your paper pass, if it is valid.
You can use your Free Travel on most Iarnród Éireann , Bus Éireann , Dublin Bus , DART and Luas Services and on certain private bus and ferry services (pdf) .
Free travel is also available on Dublin Bus Nitelink , Go-Ahead Ireland and TFI (Transport for Ireland) Local Link services .
Free travel does not include some special services such as Dublin Bus AIRLINK services .
You can find a full list of services where you can use Free Travel (pdf) on gov.ie.
There are no restrictions on the times you can use your Free Travel.
Living on the Aran Islands or Tory Island
If you are permanently living on any of the Aran Islands, you may get up to 12 single (or 6 return) air trips each year between the islands and Galway City.
People who live permanently on Tory Island (Co. Donegal) are entitled to 8 (or 4 return) free journeys on the seasonal helicopter service operating between the island and Falcarragh on the mainland.
If your public services card includes free travel for a companion, spouse, partner or cohabitant, they can also travel with you for free on the above services.
Going to Northern Ireland
You may also travel free of charge on certain cross-border services between Ireland and Northern Ireland. But to travel free in Northern Ireland, you must have a Senior Smart Pass – see ‘Senior SmartPass for travelling in Northern Ireland’ below.
To get Free Travel you must be living in Ireland and meet one of the following conditions:
- You are aged 66 or over
- You are getting Disability Allowance , Blind Pension , Carer's Allowance or an Invalidity Pension
- You are blind or visually impaired and meet the medical conditions for Blind Pension
- You have been getting Incapacity Supplement or Workmen's Compensation with Disablement Pension for at least 12 months
- You are a specified carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relative's Allowance
- You are getting a social security invalidity payment (or similar payment) from a country covered by EU regulations or from a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement for at least 12 months
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Widow or widower or a surviving civil partner
If you are a widow or widower or a surviving civil partner aged 60 or over, living in Ireland and your late spouse or civil partner had Free Travel, you can get Free Travel, if you are getting one of the following payments:
- Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Partner's (Contributory) Pension
- Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Partner's (Non-Contributory) Pension
- One-Parent Family Payment
- Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Partner's Pension under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme
- A similar social security pension or benefit from a country covered by EU regulations or a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement
- You are getting an ordinary Garda widow's pension
Spouses, civil partners and cohabitants
If you are entitled to Free Travel and you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, your partner may be able to travel with you for free.
Your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant cannot travel with you for free, if you are under age 66 and getting Free Travel because you are:
- Getting Carer's Allowance
- The nominated carer for a person getting Constant Attendance Allowance or Prescribed Relatives Allowance
Your PSC card must have FT-S on it to allow your partner travel with you. To add your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant to your Free Travel - see ‘How to apply for Free Travel’ below.
If you can’t travel alone
If you are unable to travel alone , you can have a person, over 16 years of age, travel with you for free. Your PSC card must have FT-C on it. To add a companion to your Free Travel, see ‘How to apply for Free Travel’ below.
Free travel companion card for children
A child with a visual impairment can get Free Travel for a companion if they are under 18 and they either:
- Satisfy the blindness condition for a Blind Pension, or
- Are registered with Vision Ireland or the National League of the Blind of Ireland
The person they travel with (companion) must be age 16 or over.
Work and Free Travel
You can keep your Free Travel for 5 years, if you moved from one of the following disability payments to work:
- Disability Allowance
- Invalidity Pension
- Partial Capacity Benefit (from Invalidity Pension)
- Disablement Benefit paid along with Incapacity Supplement
You can also keep your Free Travel for 5 years if you transferred from Disability Allowance or Invalidity Pension to a Community Employment , SOLAS or a Back to Work scheme.
If you are aged 66 or over and are getting a State pension, your Public Services Card (PSC) will be issued showing that you have Free Travel automatically.
If you are under 66, you will get Free Travel automatically issued on your PSC if you get one of the following payments:
- Blind Pension
- Carer’s Allowance
If you are married or in a civil partnership, your PSC will be issued with FT-S on it. If you are cohabiting, you must fill in Part 1 and 2 of the Free Travel application form FT1 (pdf) .
If you are not getting one of the payments above but you are eligible for Free Travel, you must fill in the Free Travel application form FT1(pdf) and send to the Free Travel Section in the Department of Social Protection.
If you can’t travel alone and need a companion
If you are unable to travel alone, you can apply for Free Travel for a Companion, using either of the following forms:
- Over 70 Companion pass form (pdf)
- Under 70 Companion pass form (pdf)
You can get an application form for Free Travel from the Department of Social Protection. The form is also available at your local post office and Citizens Information Centre .
Lost or damaged Free Travel pass or PSC
There are currently 2 types of Free Travel Pass:
- A paper Free Travel Pass
- A Public Services Card with Free Travel (with F-T written in the top left-hand corner)
Paper passes are no longer being issued so if you need a replacement for a lost or damaged paper pass, you must undergo SAFE registration and get a Public Services Card .
If your Public Services Card Free Travel is lost, stolen or damaged, you should telephone 0818 837 000 to request a replacement card.
Free Travel
Social Welfare Services College Road Sligo Ireland
If you are 66 or over and have Free Travel, you can travel free of charge on all bus and rail services within Northern Ireland using a Senior SmartPass card.
If you are 66 or over and have Free Travel, you do not need to meet the residency condition in Northern Ireland to apply for a Senior SmartPass card.
How to apply for a Senior SmartPass
To get a Senior SmartPass, you must fill in an application form (FTNI1). You can get this form from your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office. It is not possible to get this form online .
You should not use a photocopy of the form as each form is barcoded. The application form must be filled in with black ink only and returned in person (not posted) to your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.
You must bring each of the following items with your application form to your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office:
- Your Irish Free Travel pass/Public Services Card
- Proof of your address, (for example, a gas, electricity, phone bill or bank statement)
- Proof of your identity, (for example, your driving licence, passport or another form of photo identification)
- A recent passport standard colour photograph
It may take up to 6 weeks to process your application. There is further information on the extension of the Free Travel Scheme .
Travelling with a partner or companion
A spouse, civil partner, cohabitant or companion cannot travel with you for free on public transport within Northern Ireland.
However, your Irish Free Travel allows your spouse, civil partner, cohabitant or companion to travel for free on certain cross-border services between Ireland and Northern Ireland. For example, a cross-border train journey that starts in Ireland and ends in Northern Ireland or vice versa.
Renewing and replacing a Senior SmartPass
Your Senior SmartPass will expire after 5 years.
- If you have electronically used your card within the last 2 years, you will get a new card automatically in the post from Translink when your card expires.
- If you have not used your card in the last 2 years, you will be sent a renewal application form to fill in. The renewal form is not the same as a first-time application and you do not need to supply a photograph.
- If you have never used your card, you will not hear from Translink at all. If you wish to get it renewed, you must contact Translink by email at [email protected] , or telephone 00 44 289 075 9129 or 028 90 66 66 30 and they will send you a renewal application.
If you lose or need to replace your Senior SmartPass for travel in Northern Ireland, you can fill in form (FTNI 2) (pdf) .
Brexit and the Senior SmartPass
On 31 January 2020 the UK exited the EU . Senior SmartPass holders can continue to travel in Northern Ireland on the bus and train.
Related documents
- Tax-free purchases for non-EU travellers The Retail Export Scheme, allows visitors to Ireland (from outside the European Union) to buy goods in Ireland to take home with them and benefit from tax relief. 2722.6294
- Customs regulations for travellers to Ireland Find out about the important rules in place regarding customs regulations for people travelling to Ireland. 2613.1245
- Travelling from Ireland for healthcare in Europe Introduction to the options for Irish residents who want to access healthcare in other countries in Europe. 2547.784
If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).
You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .
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Northern Ireland over 60's 'free' travel pass applicants to pay £20 for access
The application fee will be a one-time fee for unlimited bus and rail travel
- 14:23, 12 JUN 2024
- Updated 15:21, 12 JUN 2024
![travel pass ni Stock image of Translink train on Belfast's Lagan Railway Bridge](https://i2-prod.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/article27884748.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/1_PXL_20231011_075443910.jpg)
Applicants for a "free" travel pass in Northern Ireland will now be required to pay to access the scheme. Those over 60 can apply for a Translink SmartPass, which entitles you to free travel on any bus or rail service in Northern Ireland.
However, those applying for "free" travel passes will now be subject to an application fee, which is expected to be about £20 for those aged 60 to 64. It comes as Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd said he wanted to protect concessionary fares - which is why the application fee is being introduced.
Application fees for the Senior SmartPass, for those over 65, which provides free travel on bus and rail services in Northern Ireland , cross-border, and internal Republic of Ireland travel, will be priced at a reduced fee of £12. The fee for both the 60+ SmartPass and Senior SmartPass will be a one-time fee and will be introduced in the autumn.
Read more: Translink announce fare increases for bus and rail passengers
Read more: Belfast park reopens following £1.7m redevelopment inspired by maritime heritage
A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said: "To help protect the Scheme and manage costs, an application fee for 60-64 year olds and first-time applicants over 65, will be introduced in Autumn this year.
"At this stage it is anticipated that the fee for 60-64 year olds will be around £20, with a reduced fee of around £12 for Senior SmartPass applicants (those over 65), and will cover the duration of the pass. The application fee will not apply to disability-related SmartPasses."
Older people make up approximately 20% of Metro passengers, 16% of Northern Ireland Railways passengers, and 13% of Ulsterbus passengers. This equates to an overall 16% of Translink's normal 84 million passenger journeys.
SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan has welcomed the maintaining of free public transport for over 60s, but has lamented the Executive's "failure to invest in public transport." Earlier this month, Translink announced its third fare increase within the last 15 months.
He said: "The retention of the over 60s SmartPass is welcome news, though I can't help but feel it should have been made sooner, given the clear indications leading up to this point. It is great to see people power in action and I thank everyone who responded to the consultation.
"First and foremost, the purpose of the Concessionary Fare Scheme is to promote accessible public transport- this will of course do just that and encourage more people out of their cars and on to our buses and trains. However, this is just a fraction of shift in gear that's needed. Translink have been forced to increase fares for others, pricing people out of public transport as a direct result of a complete lack of investment from the Executive.
"Not only is the public footing the bill for their failure but it’s completely counterintuitive to the aim of encouraging people to use more sustainable modes of transport. At the same time governments in other jurisdictions are driving investment towards public transport and passing on savings to passengers.
“If the Executive is serious about tackling the climate emergency, steps must be taken to make cleaner modes of transport a more accessible, affordable option for everyone."
The Infrastructure Minister said he is committed to prioritising essential front-line services and addressing regional imbalance as an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA), a report setting out the impact of the Assembly's budget on spending in his department was published.
Mr O'Dowd has also reiterated his commitment to ringfencing funding for a number of other projects including Coleraine to Derry rail improvements and investing in the A5 .
John O’Dowd said: “Years of underfunding and austerity by the British Government mean these are challenging times for all departments, and Infrastructure is no different. I will be looking towards the June monitoring round and will continue to work with Executive colleagues to explore all avenues of investment but, for now, I am focusing on protecting essential services, delivering positive change and addressing regional imbalance.
“As a department, we have had to critically examine all aspects of spend. We have taken and will continue to take difficult decisions to prioritise what we can deliver within our budget envelope, which means to protect concessionary fares a nominal fee will be introduced for first time applicants and 60-64 year olds applying for a Smartpass.”
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From the Department for Infrastructure's budget allocation for 2024-25, Translink will get £245.8m, which includes £80m ring-fenced for the Belfast Transport Hub, £6.4m EU peace plus funding for the Enterprise replacements and £4.7m ring-fenced for Coleraine to Derry~Londonderry Track Renewal.
NI Water will receive £137.7m resource and £323.6m capital plus a ring-fenced amount of £875k for EU Peace Plus projects. All allocations are indicative at this stage and will be confirmed or amended upon consideration of the EQIA.
Minister O'Dowd added: “I encourage everyone to provide their comments to the EQIA. Getting infrastructure right can deliver real benefits for our citizens, communities and the economy.
"I am working with my officials on a clear prioritisation of schemes over the next two years, which will put the department on a steady footing to make the best possible use of our resources to make a positive difference for all of our citizens.”
The consultation period on 6 September 2024. The link to the consultation is here.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
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Rail travel concessions
There are different SmartPasses which offer discount for travel across Northern Ireland's trains. These include full discounts for older people, senior citizens, registered blind, and those with a war disability, and a range of eligible groups entitled to half fare discounts.
SmartPasses
SmartPasses must be shown when buying your ticket, to claim a discount.
Senior citizens
Free travel is available to all Senior Citizens who are 65 years of age or over and who have been resident in Northern Ireland for a minimum of three months.
- Senior (65+) SmartPass
Aged 60 to 64
If you are aged between 60 and 64 and you are a permanent resident of Northern Ireland, you are eligible for a 60+ SmartPass.
- 60+ SmartPass
Registered blind
If you are registered blind with a Northern Ireland Health and Social Care Trust and you are a permanent resident of Northern Ireland, you are eligible for a Registered Blind SmartPass.
- Registered Blind SmartPass
War disablement
People under the age of 65 who receive a War Disablement pension and are also resident in Northern Ireland, are eligible for a War Disablement SmartPass.
- War Disablement SmartPass
Half Fare SmartPass
Half Fare SmartPass holders are entitled to 50 per cent off the standard adult single fare on scheduled rail services operating within Northern Ireland.
- Half Fare SmartPass - free bus travel and concessions
More useful links
- Translink tickets and travel cards
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If your query is about another benefit, select ‘Other’ from the drop-down menu above.
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If your query is about another topic, select ‘Other’ from the drop-down menu above.
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For queries about your GRONI account, email [email protected] .
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For queries about:
- Car tax, vehicle registration and SORN contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Swansea
- Driver licensing and tests, MOT and vehicle testing contact the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA), Northern Ireland
For queries about your identity check, email [email protected] .
For queries or advice about passports, contact HM Passport Office .
For queries or advice about Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), including parking tickets and bus lane PCNs, email [email protected]
For queries or advice about pensions, contact the Northern Ireland Pension Centre .
If you wish to report a problem with a road or street you can do so online in this section .
If you wish to check on a problem or fault you have already reported, contact DfI Roads .
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The Belfast Visitor Pass is just the ticket to save you time and money when visiting Belfast.
Buy a Belfast Visitor Pass
With unlimited travel on all Metro, NIRailways, Ulsterbus and Glider services within the Belfast Visitor Pass Zone for 1, 2 or 3 days you can get out and about and explore more of our vibrant, lively city. Your Belfast Visitor Pass will also let you enjoy a whole world of fantastic offers and discounts, from savings on key attractions and tours to special offers and incentives in some of our main cultural venues, restaurants, cafés and shops!
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You can buy your Visitor Pass online or in person at the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre (9 Donegall Square North), Belfast International Airport Tourist Information Desk or at any Translink station in Belfast.
Belfast Visitor Pass Fares (including £1 card purchase)
- 2 days: £13
- 3 days: £17
*Terms and conditions apply.
Belfast Visitor Pass Zone
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The Belfast Visitor Pass can be used for travel within the specified Belfast Visitor Pass Zone only.
Metro and Glider : All Metro and Glider services in Belfast.
NI Railways: Services between Belfast and Cultra, Jordanstown, Mossley West and Derriaghy and all stops in between.
Ulsterbus: Ulsterbus Town services within the Belfast Visitor Pass Zone such as Holywood and Newtownabbey. All other Ulsterbus services which pick up and set down passengers within the Belfast Visitor Pass Zone.
Airport Express 600 services to and from George Best Belfast City Airport. Not valid on Airport Service 300 to/from Belfast International Airport.
Download Belfast Visitor Pass Guide and Offers
Download the Belfast Visitor Pass guide, just the ticket to save you time and money in Belfast.
Belfast Visitor Pass 2024
- 8 July 2024
Special Offers: Attractions
![travel pass ni Titanic Belfast](https://aws.visitbelfast.com/app/uploads/2019/05/05174912/Titanic-Belfast_1557872458-1280x720.jpeg)
Belfast Zoo 10% off adult & child tickets
Crumlin Road Gaol 20% off adult self-guided experience
Titanic Belfast & SS Nomadic £3 off adult admission
Ulster Folk Museum 10% retail in shop
Ulster Transport Museum 10% off retail in shop
Ulster Museum 10% off retail in shop
Linen Hall Library 10% off the gift shop range (doesn’t include books or publications) 10% off at the Linen Hall Café
Discover Ulster Scots Centre 10% off sales £25 and over
Prison Island Save 10% (applies to standard passes 1hr).
Axe Yard Urban Axe Throwing Save 10% (applies to Axe Throwing Interactive).
Belfast Cathedral (St. Anne’s) 15% off in the cathedral’s gift shop.
Lost City Adventure Golf 15% off full ticket price
Lagan Adventures Belfast Hydro Bikes – 10% off
Scrapyard Golf 10% off
Special Offers: Tours
![travel pass ni DC Tours City Hall 1](https://aws.visitbelfast.com/app/uploads/2020/04/04110750/DC-Tours-City-Hall-1-1280x720.jpg)
Titanic Distillers 20% off Signature & Premium tours
Clifton House Tours 15% off
DC Tours – Belfast Walking Tours 15% off adult ticket.
Irish FA Tours 15% off a family ticket.
Belfast Bike Tours 20% off
The Deers Head 10% off Brewpub Experience.
Belfast Hidden Tours 15% off (when booking any tour)
Coiste Irish Political Tours 10% off final bill
Brit Movies Derry Girls Taxi Tour (in Belfast) & Line of Duty Tour 10% off Derry Girls 20% off Line of Duty
The Spirit Circle 15% off The Spirit Circle Experience – Belfast by the Glass and Sensorium
James Connolly Centre £3 off adult tickets
Belfastology 15% off standard ticket price
McConnell’s Distillery 15% off tour tickets
Belfast Exposed 10% off in bookshop
Aunt Sandras Candy Factory 10% off adult ticket price for shows and workshops, free lolly for all kids
Templemore Baths Heritage Tours 3 for 2 admission
Special Offers: Shopping
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ArtisAnn Gallery 5% off any artwork
Skechers Belfast 15% off valid to June 2025 on full price items only
Craft NI Gallery 10% off all gallery purchases
Born & Bred 10% off any purchase
Special Offers: Food and Drink
![travel pass ni Coppi](https://aws.visitbelfast.com/app/uploads/2019/05/05182714/Coppi_1557851764-1280x720.jpeg)
Ryan’s Bar and Restaurant 10% off food bill *excludes existing offers
Coppi 15% off food bill
MAC Café Bar 10% off until 5pm *excluding alcohol
Ability Café at Belfast Zoo 10% off
Crumlin Road Gaol – Cuff’s Restaurant 10% off food bill
Novelli at City Quays 15% off food bill – cannot be used in conjunction with any others
Loaf Café and Bakery 10% off food and drink.
The Cloth Ear 10% off any main course dish (excluding Steak)
Parisian 10% off food and beverage bill
Fratelli 10% off food and Beverage bill
44 Hill Street 20% off total bill Mon – Thur for early bird dining before 5.45pm
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Consultation on Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme launched
Date published: 01 June 2023
- Public transport
- Bus, rail and ferry travel
A consultation on changes to the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme has been launched by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).
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The 12-week public consultation will review eligibility for the Scheme, which has not changed since 2008.
The Scheme aims to promote accessible public transport for those most at risk of social exclusion and currently allows older people (60+) and some disabled people to travel for free or at a discounted rate using a SmartPass.
Changes being considered include raising the age of eligibility for concessionary fares to either 65 or state pension age. This change, which would apply to existing users and new applicants, would bring Northern Ireland into line with England and the Republic of Ireland.
The Department is also consulting on extending eligibility to include free travel for disabled people who currently qualify for a half fare SmartPass and a companion pass for disabled people who qualify for a pass and are unable to travel alone.
Any changes that would increase the total costs of the Scheme would require additional budget cover.
The cost of the Scheme has continued to rise significantly since 2010/11 for a number of reasons including increased fares and an increase in the eligible population entitled to the age-related concession.
In 2022/23 the Scheme cost £39m and DfI estimates the cost of the Scheme will rise to £44.6m in 2023/24 – due to continued passenger number recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic and fare increases. Estimations indicate the cost could further rise to more than £52m by 2030.
A DfI spokesperson said:
“We recognise the importance of the Scheme and the benefits it brings to those who use their SmartPass to travel on public transport. However, the cost of the Scheme has increased significantly and we anticipate it will continue to rise. With that in mind we are looking at all options to ensure the scheme will continue to promote social inclusion, without impacting the delivery of public transport services or other services the department provides. “No decisions have been made yet. We are keen to hear from the public, representative groups and others on how the proposed changes might affect them. We also want to hear view on how the Scheme might operate in the future. Our priority is to ensure that it is affordable and at the same time, targeted at those who need it most.”
The public consultation is available here: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-changes-concessionary-fares-scheme
Following the consultation all submissions will be analysed before recommendations are made to the Minister for Infrastructure. Should there continue to be an absence of Ministers, approval will be considered taking into account the decision-making framework set out in the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc.) Act 2022 or relevant legislation in place at the time.
Notes to editors:
- Aspects of the scheme that will be reviewed as part of the 12-week consultation include:
- Raising the age of eligibility
- Limiting SmartPass use to off-peak travel
- Limiting SmartPass use to bus-only travel
- The introduction of application, renewal and replacement fees
- Free travel for those in receipt of a half-fare concession due to a qualifying disability
- Companion passes for disabled people unable to travel alone
- Extending qualifying criteria for a half-fare SmartPass
- Free transport for those receiving asylum support and victims of human trafficking
- Changes to residence test
- Proving residency
- All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at: [email protected] .
- The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
- Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra , on Facebook @DepartmentforInfrastructure and on Linked In at Department for Infrastructure .
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The easiest and quickest way to purchase tickets is to download the free mlink mobile ticketing app. mlink is also a contactless method that limits contact between our staff and passengers..
Pre-paid tickets and travel cards are available online or on the mLink ticketing app. If buying on board please use contactless when possible.
You can also pay as you go by paying on board bus services, at stations or from train conductors (when no Translink employee is available at train station). Tickets can also be purchased at ticket vending machines before you board for Glider services. This will normally be the standard fare although some special offer discounts are available.
We have a range of pre-pay travel cards designed to save you money and offer convenience. Many of the travel cards are available to buy online and offer significant cost savings on the standard fare.
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Available on train services – unlimited travel on any 3 days out of 7 between two chosen rail stations within Northern Ireland. Available to purchase on the mLink app, ideal if you want the flexibility to travel any 3 days of the week. The 7 day expiry is set when the 1st day of travel is activated.
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Day, Weekly and Monthly Travel Card - Buy a daily, weekly or monthly travel card to save on Metro, Glider and Ulsterbus Town services. Find Out More about Day, Weekly and Monthly travel card
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yLink If you are lucky enough to be between 16-23 apply for a FREE Ylink card and you can enjoy a massive 50% off travel on all bus and rail services within Northern Ireland. Find Out More about yLink
Under 16 Digital Travelcard Translink is working with digital ID experts Yoti to introduce a free digital travelcard for school students aged 13 and over. Learn more about the Under 16 Digital Travelcard
iLink Available to buy online, our integrated ilink travel cards offer fantastic value for money with unlimited day, weekly and monthly bus and rail travel within specified zones across Northern Ireland. Find Out More about iLink
aLink The alink is an annual travel card available for your selected scheduled bus or rail commute and gives you FREE, unlimited use of scheduled bus and train services at weekends. Find Out More about annual travel cards
24+ Like it says on the tin! Discounted rail travel for aged 24+. (if you're a full time student!) - 1/3 off! From 01 September 2020 until further notice you can get a free 24+ Student Railcard! Find Out More about 24 plus travel
Belfast Visitor Pass 1,2 or 3 days travel within Belfast with lots of little extras from our business partners. Buy Now
Concession Half Fare and free travel concession passes available for eligible users includes, 60+ and Senior SmartPasses. Find out more about concession passes
Smart cards are available to buy online. Please allow 72 hours for postal products. You may want to check out our mLink ticketing app for mobile tickets.
Travel cards not for you? Paying on board or in station might be the more convenient way for you to travel. Check out our special offers as promotional discounts are often available.
Paying on board for bus travel is cash for most services.
Using Glider services - you need to buy your ticket before you board at the ticket vending machine (TVM). TVM's are at every Glider halt and you can pay by cash or card.
Insufficient Change
You will be given a card if you have tendered a large banknote and the bus driver has insufficient change available. Translink bus drivers have been instructed to adhere to the following Company procedure:
The driver has issued you with a valid ticket for your journey and collected the banknote.
If the driver acquires change along the route you will receive your change before disembarking, if not the driver will obtain the correct change at the bus station.
If you are not travelling to a bus station where change can be obtained, please provide the driver with your name and details of where you would like to collect your change (Metro passengers can collect at Metro Short Strand Depot or at a chosen Metro location).
Delay Repay
Fare evasion.
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For queries or advice about historical, social or cultural records relating to Northern Ireland, use the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) enquiry service. ... For queries or advice about 60+ and Senior Citizen SmartPasses (which can be used to get concessionary travel on public transport), contact Smartpass - Translink.
This will provide you with free travel on buses and trains for a seven-day period, during which time a new free replacement pass will be issued. Or you can also get a free replacement pass by contacting Translink: phone: 028 9066 6630. email: [email protected].
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A consultation on changes to the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme has been launched by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI). The 12-week public consultation will review eligibility for the Scheme, which has not changed since 2008. The Scheme aims to promote accessible public transport for those most at risk of social exclusion and ...
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