Young individuals aged 16 to 21 across Wales are being urged to apply for the free mytravelpass before the launch of the new £1 bus fare pilot scheme starting September 1, 2025. This initiative offers substantial savings on transport costs, especially for commuting to school, college, work, or social activities.
What Is the £1 Bus Fare Scheme?
Beginning September 1, single bus journeys for eligible young people will be reduced to just £1, while day passes will cost £3, allowing unlimited travel across all participating bus services.
This budget-friendly travel opportunity is made possible through a new pilot scheme funded by the Welsh Government, aiming to enhance mobility and reduce transport barriers for youth.
Get Your Free mytravelpass
To benefit from the scheme, young people must present a valid mytravelpass when boarding the bus. The mytravelpass serves as proof of age, ensuring only those aged 16 to 21 can take advantage of the discounted fares.
The pass is completely free and can be obtained by applying at the official mytravelpass website.
A Message from the Cabinet Secretary
Ken Skates, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, highlighted the positive impact of the initiative:
“This scheme will make a real difference to young people across Wales and will allow them to make journeys for work, education, and leisure at a discounted price.”
He also encouraged all eligible individuals who have not yet applied to do so promptly, ensuring they’re ready when the scheme launches on 1 September.
Extended Support and Funding Details
The scheme is part of a broader transport support package:
- £15 million is being allocated over two financial years (2025–26 and 2026–27) to maintain the £1 bus fare for 16–21-year-olds.
- An additional £7 million investment will be made by the Welsh Government to expand eligibility to children aged 5 to 15, starting 3 November 2025.
This financial commitment stems from a Budget agreement between the Welsh Government and Jane Dodds, Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats.
Quick Summary Table
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Launch Date | 1 September 2025 |
| Eligibility Age Group | 16–21 (expanding to 5–15 from 3 November 2025) |
| Single Fare Cost | £1 |
| Day Ticket Cost | £3 (unlimited travel) |
| Proof Required | Free mytravelpass |
| Where to Apply | mytravelpass.gov.wales |
| Funding for Ages 16–21 | £15 million (2025–27) |
| Additional Funding for 5–15 | £7 million (from 3 November 2025) |
The Welsh Government’s £1 bus fare scheme is a significant step toward affordable and accessible public transport for young people.
With free mytravelpasses and low-cost day tickets, individuals aged 16–21 (and soon 5–15) will enjoy freedom of travel for work, study, and leisure across Wales. Interested applicants are urged to apply today and be ready for 1 September, when the scheme rolls out.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for a new mytravelpass if I already have one?
No, if your mytravelpass is still valid and shows your age as between 16–21, you can continue using it.
Can I use the £1 bus fare on all bus routes?
Only participating bus services are included in the scheme. Check with the operator or the mytravelpass website for a list of included routes.
Will the scheme be extended beyond 2027?
The current funding covers 2025–26 and 2026–27. Any extension will depend on further government decisions and budget allocations.