What the National Entitlement Card (NEC) is
The National Entitlement Card (NEC) is for disabled people in Scotland to get free bus travel or reduced fares on other kinds of transport.
Who can apply for a NEC
If you have a disability and meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a NEC.
Anyone who lives in Scotland with a valid disability proof dated within the last 18 months can apply for a NEC.
If you have a travel companion, they can also travel with you for free. if you meet eligibility criteria.
Children under the age of 5 who have a disability can get free bus travel with an NEC. Their accompanying companion can also travel free with them.
See the eligibility criteria on the Transport Scotland website.
What you can use the card for
You can use your NEC for:
- free bus travel in Scotland
- reduced fares on coaches, trains and the Subway in the Strathclyde area
- free travel for a companion to help you use public transport, if you meet the eligibility criteria
- library membership or leisure centre membership.
How much it costs
NECs are free.
There's no cost for applying, renewing, or replacing your card.
Before you apply for a NEC
When you apply, you'll need to provide:
- proof of your identity
- proof of your current address
- proof you meet the eligibility criteria
- a recent passport size photograph.
You can find out about the card, eligibility, and what proofs are required on the Transport Scotland Website.
How to apply for a NEC
Apply online
You can apply online through the getyournec.scot website.
You can use a device, like a laptop, tablet, or smartphone to take a digital photo and upload it with your application.
Apply by email or post
If you cannot apply online, you can download an application form from the Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) website.
Send your application form to:
SPT Concessionary Travel Card Office
Address and postcode
Buchanan Bus Station
10 Killermont Street
Glasgow
G2 3NW
After you’ve applied
It normally takes up to 4 weeks from when we receive your application by post to when you get your card.
Change, replace, or renew your card
You can change, replace, or renew your card online if:
- your card is lost, damaged or stolen
- you need to change the photo on your card
- your address has changed.
If your card has expired or is due to expire, you should apply at least 5 weeks before your card expires for SPT to provide you with a new card.
You'll need your 16-digit card number to change or replace your card online. If you do not know the number on your card, you should apply for a new card online or get an application form from your local post office.
If you cannot change, replace, or renew your card online, contact the SPT Concessionary Travel Office for help: