If you have reached state pension age, receive a qualifying benefit or meet the disability criteria you are entitled to free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.  

Apply for a Diamond Travelcard

First check you meet the eligibility criteria.

You will need to provide a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders. If you do not have a photograph you can ask staff at a One Stop Shop to take one to send to us.

You will also need to submit proof of address and identity – what you need to provide is listed on the forms.

You should apply using the application form.

If you are applying because you are of pensionable age (or will shortly be), you can use the short application form.

Complete the form either electronically or by hand and:

You can also get an application form from one of our libraries, One Stop Shops, council offices or by calling us on 01454 868004.

Make sure your application is fully completed and your proof of address and identity are included along with any other supporting documentation required. This will prevent delays in issuing your card.

Please note we may contact you if further information or evidence is needed.

If everything is in order with your application, we aim to issue your card within 12 weeks. We ask that you do not contact us to chase up your application within this time.

Enhanced travelcard (sight impaired)

If you are registered as sight impaired or severely sight impaired you can apply for an enhanced Diamond Travelcard (also called a Platinum Travelcard). This enables you to travel free of charge at all times on local buses.

Any journeys that start before 9am must begin in South Gloucestershire.

Apply using our short Platinum Travelcard application form.

You will need to print it out, complete it by hand and post it to the address shown on the form or scan and email to contravel@southglos.gov.uk.

When submitting your application you will need to include a copy of one of the following:

  • certificate of visual impairment or DB8 form
  • your South Gloucestershire Council sight impaired registration number
  • letter from your eye specialist confirming that you are considered sight impaired

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