Over 70s across Ireland can now bring a companion on public transport for free

Older people across Ireland will now be able to bring a companion with them on public transport for free.

As part of Budget 2025, the government announced that from September 29, 2025, all those aged 70 years or over in receipt of Free Travel will have an entitlement to receive a Free Travel Companion Public Services Card.

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This will mean the person aged 70 or over can have another person, aged 16 or older, including their spouse or partner, travel with them for free on all transport services provided as part of the Free Travel scheme.

If you are aged 70 years or over and you currently have a Free Travel ‘Personal’ (FT-P) PSC or ‘Spouse’ (FT+S) PSC, there is no need to contact the Department. The Department has written to all those already in receipt of Free Travel who will benefit from this measure, setting out the process involved in ensuring that they will receive a Free Travel Companion (FT+C) PSC.

For those aged over 70 whose FT-P or FT+S PSC expires after 1st September 2025, the Department is currently issuing new Free Travel Companion (FT+C) PSC’s to everyone in this category.

For those aged over 70 whose Free Travel PSC expires before 1st September 2025, as previously advised in writing, they should renew their PSC either online or in person.

The quickest and easiest way is to renew online. To do this you will need a verified MyGovID account. If you do not have a verified MyGovID account, please visit www.mygovid.ie to complete a simple verification process. You can then renew your PSC online at www.mywelfare.ie by clicking on the ‘Accessing Public Services’ tab.

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As part of the online process, you will be asked to upload your photograph. Guidelines and a short video are provided on MyWelfare.ie on how to take a photograph that meets the required standard.

If you are unable to avail of the online service and wish to renew your PSC in person, please click here to find your nearest Intreo/PSC Centre PSC Centres are available throughout the country and offer either an appointment or walk-in service.

When you renew your PSC, your new card will be sent to you by post.

More information click HERE