Your council runs it, so you apply to them. Families on low incomes get the longest distances covered.
Quick facts
- Under 8
- School more than 2 miles away
- 8 and over
- School more than 3 miles away
- Also
- No safe walking route, or SEND
- Low income
- Extra routes up to 6 or 15 miles
- Apply to
- Your council
Who qualifies
Children of compulsory school age qualify for free school transport if they go to their nearest suitable school and any of the following apply:
- the school is more than 2 miles away and the child is under 8
- the school is more than 3 miles away and the child is 8 or over
- there’s no safe walking route between their home and school
- they cannot walk there because of their special educational needs or disabilities or a mobility problem
If your child gets free school meals
Your child may also qualify for free school transport if they’re eligible for free school meals. They may be eligible for free school meals if you get certain benefits.
From the start of the 2026 to 2027 academic year, your child will continue to be eligible for free school transport if you get Universal Credit and have a household income of £7,400 or less a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get).
Your child must also be:
- aged 8 to 11, go to their nearest school and it’s at least 2 miles away
- aged 11 to 16 and go to a school 2 to 6 miles away - if it’s one of their 3 nearest suitable schools
- aged 11 to 16 and go to a school 2 to 15 miles away - if it’s one you chose because of your religion or belief
If your child is 16 or over
If your child is 16 or over and still in education, ask your local council if they offer any help with transport. Some colleges also help through the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund.
How to apply
Find out more about applying for free school transport from your local council.
Common questions
How far does my child have to live from school for free transport?
More than 2 miles if they are under 8, or more than 3 miles if they are 8 or over, to their nearest suitable school.
Does Universal Credit change the free school transport rules?
Children stay eligible for the extended low-income routes only if household income is £7,400 or less a year, even though the free school meals rule has changed.
Can my child get free transport because of special needs?
Yes, if they cannot walk there because of their special educational needs, disability or a mobility problem.
What about 16 to 18 year olds?
Ask your local council. There is no automatic right, but many councils help.