Accessible buses and coaches
Your rights on local buses and long-distance coaches, wheelchair spaces, priority seating, audio-visual announcements and free travel passes.
Applies to: UK-wide. Last reviewed 1 August 2026. This is information, not legal advice; rules can differ by council and operator.
What buses must provide
- Almost all local buses in Great Britain must meet accessibility rules: a boarding ramp, a wheelchair space, priority seating, colour-contrasted handrails and clear signage.
- The wheelchair space has priority for a wheelchair user. If a buggy is in the space, the driver must ask the person to move it.
- Many buses now give audible and visible next-stop announcements. Where they do not, you can ask the driver to tell you when to get off.
Coaches
Long-distance coaches are covered by EU-derived passenger rights that still apply in the UK. You can ask for assistance at designated terminals, usually with at least 36 hours' notice. Not every coach carries a wheelchair lift, so check the specific service before booking.
Free and discounted travel
- England: the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme gives free off-peak local bus travel to eligible disabled people. Apply through your council.
- Scotland: the National Entitlement Card gives free bus travel across Scotland to eligible disabled people, often with a companion.
- Wales: the Concessionary Travel Card gives free bus travel, with a companion pass available.
- Northern Ireland: the Half Fare and Blind Person's SmartPasses are issued by Translink.
Questions worth asking
- Is the wheelchair space forward or rear facing, and how big is it?
- Does the route use low-floor buses at all times of day?
- Can the driver kneel the bus and deploy the ramp at my stop?
Official sources and where to apply
Find providers
Search the accessible transport directory for buses and coaches and other services in your area.
Other transport guides
Rail Passenger Assist
Free assistance at stations and on trains across Great Britain and Northern Ireland, including help boarding, ramps, and someone to meet you.
Airport and airline assistance
Free special assistance at UK airports, how to book it, and how wheelchairs and mobility equipment are handled.
Ferries and water transport
Assistance on ferries to the islands, Northern Ireland and Europe, including notice periods and what to check about the vessel and terminal.
Blue Badge
Who can get a Blue Badge, how eligibility differs across the four nations, how to apply and how to use it.