Vale of Glamorgan Council
Cyngor Bro Morgannwg
Cost of Living Support Icon
​

Apply Online to buy a School Bus Pass 

Applications to buy a School Bus Pass are currently unavailable.

 

New accessibility rules, introduced by the Department for Transport, for buses and coaches came into effect on 31st July 2026. These rules are designed to make travel easier and more accessible for everyone, including disabled passengers.

 

Because of these changes, we are currently unable to sell school transport passes for the next academic year. This is because some vehicles used on school transport services do not yet meet the new accessibility requirements. Without meeting these requirements, they cannot legally carry fare-paying passengers.

 

The new rules relate to accessibility features, such as wheelchair access and clear signage. They do not mean that the vehicles are unsafe.

 

We are working with transport operators to establish if they meet the requirements needed to sell spare seats and will share further updates as soon as possible.

 

This has not been a decision taken by the Council and is outside of our control. Respectfully, we ask that you do not phone or email queries relating to purchase passes and re-visit this webpage for updates.

 

What’s changing? 

We’ve made it easier to apply to buy a school bus pass! From now on, all applications and payments will be online only and the old way of applying is now closed - we can no longer accept email applications. 

 

To apply, just complete our new online form. You’ll also be able to join a waiting list if places are full. 

 

Bus passes are limited and offered on a first come first served basis so we recommend applying as soon as possible. 

  

Apply to buy a School Bus Pass

 

What You Need to Do 

  1. Find the bus service number (e.g. P112) If you are not sure which one you need, check our online timetables
  2. Fill in the online application form
  3. Wait for an offer if spaces are available - we'll be in touch by email
  4. Pay online to secure your child’s place - you will have seven days to pay via the link we send you

Payment Options 

There are two types of pass:

  • Termly Pass: £150 (one school term)
  • Yearly Pass: £450 (full academic year)

You’ll need to pay in full if you are offered a place.

 

Please read the Terms & Conditions before applying:

  • Getting a bus pass does not guarantee a place every year. 

  • Spaces are based on the size of the bus and how many spare seats there are. 

  • The Council may need to take back a place at short notice if it's needed for a pupil who qualifies for free transport. 

  • Buying a pass means you accept these terms. 

 

Apply to buy a School Bus Pass

 

 

School bus route timetables

To apply to buy a bus pass, you’ll need to know the bus service number for the route you want (for example, P112).

 

Not sure which route your child needs? You can check the timetables online:

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • How do I apply for a school bus pass?
    1. Find the bus service number (e.g. P112) If you are not sure which one you need, check our online timetables
    2. Fill in the online application form
    3. Wait for an offer if spaces are available - we'll be in touch by email
    4. Pay online to secure your child’s place - you will have seven days to pay via the link we send you

 

  • Can I still apply by paper or phone?

    No. All bus pass applications must now be done online.

     

    If you need support, please email schooltransport@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk and we’ll do our best to help. 

 

  • Who can buy a school bus pass?
     Anyone can apply, but passes are given out on a first come, first served basis.

 

  • Is a seat guaranteed if I apply?

    No. This service is not guaranteed – getting a seat depends on how many spaces are left on the bus after seats for pupils who are eligible for free transport are allocated.

     

 

  • Can the bus stop at my local bus stop?

    No. The school bus services can’t stop at individual local bus stops. To keep the service running efficiently for everyone, buses only stop at set points along it's routes.

     

    You can view the routes here.

 

  • How long does the pass last?
    There are two types of pass: 

    • A yearly pass is valid for the whole school year. 

    • A termly pass only lasts for one school term.

     

    If you buy a termly pass, you’ll be offered a chance to renew it for the next term, but only if you pay again upfront.

     
    If you choose not to renew or don’t pay in time, the place will go to the next person on the waiting list. 

 

  • Can my child keep the seat all year, if I buy a yearly pass?
    Usually yes, but the Council might need to take the seat back if it’s needed for a pupil who is eligible free transport.

 

  • Are passes refundable?
    No, passes are non-refundable unless the Council withdraws the seat to give it to a pupil who is eligible for free transport.

 

  • How much does it cost?

    There are two options: 

     

    Termly Pass: £150 (one school term)

    Yearly Pass: £450 (full academic year)

     

    You must pay when you accept the place. You will be sent a link to pay online. 

 

  • What if all the seats are gone?
    If there are no spaces, we’ll add your child to the waiting list. If a space comes up, we’ll get in touch.

 

  • I’ve lost or damaged my bus pass – what do I do?
     If your pass is lost or damaged, please contact the School Transport team to get a replacement. There will be a charge of £15 for replacement passes. Email  schooltransport@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk

 

  • Can I pay in instalments?

    No, all passes must be paid for upfront.

     

    We offer termly passes to help keep costs down.

     
    If you have a termly pass, we will contact you and you’ll be offered a chance to buy the next term’s pass – but only if you pay before the deadline.