From September 2025, young people across Wales will be able to travel by bus for just £1 per journey under a new government-backed scheme. This initiative, launched by the Welsh Government in partnership with Transport for Wales and local bus operators, aims to make public transport more affordable for families, reduce car dependency, and encourage greener travel habits.
The rollout of this new fare structure marks a significant shift in transport policy. With the cost-of-living crisis putting pressure on household budgets, the £1 bus fare could provide vital financial relief for parents, students, and young workers. But who exactly qualifies for this benefit, how can young passengers apply, and what does it mean for the future of public transport in Wales?
This article explains everything you need to know about the £1 bus fare scheme in Wales, including eligibility, application processes, routes covered, government funding, and its long-term impact on society and the environment.
What is the £1 Bus Fare Scheme in Wales?
The £1 bus fare scheme is a government-subsidised programme designed to make bus travel more accessible to young people. Eligible passengers will only need to pay £1 per bus journey, regardless of distance, as long as the journey is made on participating routes in Wales.
The scheme is intended to remove barriers to public transport, particularly for younger passengers who often rely on buses for education, work, or social activities. It mirrors similar initiatives in other UK regions, but Wales has taken a bold step in implementing a nationwide rollout specifically targeting affordability for young people.
Who is Eligible for the £1 Bus Fare?
The Welsh Government has confirmed that the scheme is open to specific age groups, although eligibility may differ slightly depending on local council areas. Generally, the following groups will qualify:
- Young passengers aged 16 to 21 with a valid identification card such as a MyTravelPass or a Transport for Wales ID.
- Students in full-time education at schools, colleges, or universities within Wales.
- Apprentices and trainees who require buses for commuting to training centres or workplaces.
- In some areas, children under 16 may also benefit from discounted fares, though not all will be capped at £1.
Passengers must provide proof of age or valid student/apprenticeship identification when applying for or using the scheme.
How to Apply for the £1 Bus Fare in Wales
Applying for the scheme is straightforward. Here’s how eligible young passengers can access the discount:
- Obtain a MyTravelPass – Young people between 16 and 21 can apply online for a MyTravelPass through the Transport for Wales website. This pass is already recognised for discounted fares and will now be automatically updated to support the £1 scheme.
- Student ID Integration – Many colleges and universities are partnering with Transport for Wales to integrate student IDs with the new fare system. This will allow students to use their student cards as proof of eligibility.
- Digital Ticketing – Transport for Wales is working to expand mobile ticketing options, meaning passengers can link their discount to digital travel apps for easier boarding.
- Council-Specific Applications – In some counties, councils will manage distribution of passes, so applicants may need to check local authority websites.
Why the Welsh Government Introduced the Scheme
The government has outlined several key reasons for introducing the £1 bus fare scheme:
- Tackling the cost of living: With rising fuel, energy, and travel costs, many families struggle to support their children’s transport needs. The scheme provides direct financial relief.
- Encouraging greener transport: By making buses cheaper, the government hopes to reduce reliance on cars, cut emissions, and ease congestion in busy towns and cities.
- Supporting education and employment: Affordable bus fares allow young people to access schools, colleges, apprenticeships, and jobs without worrying about high transport costs.
- Reviving the bus industry: The Welsh bus sector has faced declining passenger numbers in recent years. This scheme provides financial incentives for operators to retain and grow ridership.
How Much Can Families Save?
Bus travel costs vary across Wales, but for many routes, a single journey can cost between £2.50 and £5.00. By reducing the price to £1, families could save hundreds of pounds annually.
For example:
- A student commuting 5 days per week at a normal rate of £3 per journey would usually spend around £30 weekly. Under the new scheme, the same travel would cost just £10 per week, saving £20 every week.
- Over the course of a school year (approx. 40 weeks), that amounts to savings of £800 per passenger.
For households with more than one child, the savings are even more substantial, making this one of the most impactful cost-of-living measures for families in Wales.
Which Routes Are Covered?
The scheme applies to most bus routes operating under Transport for Wales and other participating operators. However, there may be some exclusions for premium or long-distance services.
Key routes likely to be included:
- Local town and city services – Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, and Wrexham.
- Regional links – Services connecting towns and villages to major hubs.
- School and college routes – Dedicated buses serving educational institutions.
Passengers are encouraged to check the Transport for Wales website or contact local bus companies to confirm whether their usual routes are included.
Funding the £1 Bus Fare Scheme
The scheme is funded through a combination of Welsh Government subsidies and contributions from Transport for Wales. An estimated £40 million has been allocated for the first year to cover operator costs and compensate for reduced passenger fares.
Government ministers have emphasised that this investment is not just about lowering costs but also about promoting long-term sustainability in public transport. By encouraging higher passenger volumes, operators may offset initial losses and achieve greater efficiency.
Wider Benefits of the £1 Fare Scheme
The scheme is expected to bring multiple benefits beyond just affordability:
- Reduced carbon footprint by shifting more young people to public transport.
- Less congestion in towns and cities, improving air quality and reducing travel delays.
- Boosted economy as young workers and students can travel more freely for jobs and opportunities.
- Greater independence for young people, particularly those in rural areas with fewer transport options.
Challenges and Criticisms
While the scheme has been welcomed, it also faces challenges:
- Funding sustainability – Some critics worry the government may struggle to maintain subsidies long-term.
- Bus availability – In rural areas, services are often limited, meaning reduced fares alone may not improve access.
- Operator participation – Not all bus companies may sign up immediately, leaving gaps in coverage.
- Inflation pressures – Rising operational costs could make the scheme harder to fund over time.
The government has promised to monitor outcomes closely and adjust policies if necessary.
Reactions from the Public and Operators
Public reaction has been largely positive, with many parents, students, and youth groups praising the scheme. Social media has seen an outpouring of support, with some users calling it “a lifeline for families” and “a real step toward fairer transport.”
Bus operators have also expressed cautious optimism. While concerns remain about funding, many companies see the scheme as an opportunity to attract younger passengers and secure long-term ridership.
The Future of Transport Subsidies in Wales
The £1 bus fare for young passengers is part of a broader vision for transport in Wales. The Welsh Government has already committed to expanding rail services, investing in greener vehicles, and exploring integrated ticketing systems across buses, trains, and trams.
If successful, the scheme could inspire similar initiatives for other passenger groups, such as pensioners, low-income workers, or people living in remote areas.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £1 bus fare scheme?
Young passengers aged 16–21 with a MyTravelPass or equivalent ID, students in full-time education, and apprentices are the primary beneficiaries.
Do I need to apply for the discount?
Yes. Most young people will need to apply for or renew their MyTravelPass or provide valid student/apprenticeship ID.
Are all routes included?
Most local and regional bus services in Wales are included, though some premium long-distance services may not be covered.
How long will the scheme last?
The government has funded the scheme for at least one year, with future funding subject to performance reviews.
Can children under 16 travel for £1?
In some areas, yes, but not all. Local councils may set their own additional rules.
Conclusion
The rollout of £1 bus fares for young passengers in Wales is one of the most ambitious transport policies in recent years. By slashing travel costs, it not only helps families struggling with the cost of living but also encourages a shift towards greener, more sustainable travel.
While challenges remain, particularly around long-term funding and rural service availability, the scheme is widely seen as a positive step that could transform the way young people move around Wales. For students, apprentices, and young workers, this initiative represents both financial relief and greater freedom.
If you are a young person living in Wales or a parent of an eligible child, now is the time to apply for the scheme and start enjoying affordable, reliable travel for just £1 per journey.