Free school transport

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 does not qualify for free school transport for these reasons, they may still qualify if you have a low family income.

Find out more about applying for free school transport from your local council.

If your child is 16 or over and still in education, ask your local council if they offer any help with transport.

If you have a low family income

If your child does not qualify for free school transport for another reason, they may be eligible if either:

• they are entitled to free school meals
• you get the maximum Working Tax Credit

Your child will get free school transport if they’re:

• 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

Find out more about applying for free school transport from your local council.