Frequently asked questions

Below are a list of frequently asked questions about Gold Card. Before contacting the Gold Card office see if the list below can answer your query.

Where can I travel by bus free of charge?
With Gold Card if you're over 60, or eligible disabled, you can enjoy free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.

When exactly is off-peak travel?
Off-peak hours are 9.30am until 11pm Monday to Friday and all day weekends and bank holidays.

What is the definition of a ‘local’ bus?
In most cases this will be self-evident but in a few instances this could include some longer distance buses and coach services where part of their route is registered as a local bus service.  Long-distance express services, special tours and excursions are not classed as local bus services. If in doubt check with the bus operator.

Will I be able to enjoy free bus travel anywhere within the UK?
No. You can only get free bus travel within England. Gold Card is not valid in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.

Can I use Derbyshire Gold to get free train travel?
No. Derbyshire Gold can only be used for free bus travel.  You can use it to get half fare local train travel at anytime. This includes on most journeys within Derbyshire and on some trips to and from neighbouring counties.

If I visit an area that offers additional services such as free train or tram travel will I be entitled to them?
Probably not. As a general rule local authorities will only provide additional services for their own residents. Some authorities though, may provide them – check with the relevant authority in the area to which you intend to travel.

I visit relatives in London occasionally so will I be able to enjoy the same benefits as a London Freedom Pass holder?
No. Because those benefits are paid for by the London authorities, only London Freedom Pass holders will be able to enjoy additional travel on the tube and train. But you will be able to enjoy free off-peak bus travel when visiting the capital.

What should I do if my circumstances change?
If your circumstances change, for example if you move address either to a different county or within Derbyshire, or become ineligible because of a change in your disability, please tell your local council.

How do I get discounts in shops with my Gold Card?
Firstly, get a copy of the latest Gold Card Discount Directory, free from your county council library or from Call Derbyshire 08 456 058 058. You can also print off a list of discounters in your area from this website.

There are more than 1,400 shops, restaurants, pubs and services in and around Derbyshire that give a Gold Card discount of usually 10 per cent or more. Please note that sometimes sale items or special offers are excluded from a Gold Card discount.

Simply show your Gold Card when you pay to have the amount deducted. Please note that discounts are for the cardholder only.

I have lost my Gold Card, how do I get a new one?
Contact your local district or borough council which issued your card. They will have your details on file so you will not need to supply another application form or photograph.
Please note there is a £5 charge for a replacement card.

I have had my Gold Card stolen, do I have to pay for a new one?
A You will not have to pay the £5 replacement fee if you can prove that your Gold Card has been stolen. Once you have reported it missing to the police you should be issued with a crime reference number. You should give this to prove that your Gold Card has been stolen and the fee should be waivered.

What do I need to do to get free travel when I get on a bus?
Show the driver your Gold Card – the side with your photograph on the front - to prove you travel for free and tell them where you want to get off the bus. Even though you don’t need to give the driver any cash, you will be issued with a ticket.

When you make the return journey you will need to show your Gold Card and you will be issued with another ticket. In some parts of the country buses may have machines that ‘read’ your card and you may have to swipe your card against the machine instead of showing it to the driver. If you are unsure ask the driver.

Can I get free travel if I am under 60?
Some people under 60 may qualify for Gold Card if they have a disability. This includes people who:

• are blind or partially sighted
• are profoundly or severely deaf
• are without speech
• are without arms or have the long term loss of the use of both arms
• have a long term disability which seriously impairs your ability to walk.  This may include Blue Badge holders
• have a learning disability
• are disqualified from driving on medical grounds.  This may include people with a severe mental disorder.

To find out what documents you will need to prove that you are eligible, please see How to get a gold card.

I am nearly 60 and was looking forward to getting my Gold Card on my 60th birthday. Is it true that I will have to wait longer?
Yes. Anyone born on or after April 6 1950 will have to wait extra time before they are eligible for a Gold Card. Type your date of birth here {add in the link to the ready reckoner] to find out when you can apply.

Why will I now have to wait longer for my Gold Card?
This is not something Derbyshire County Council has decided to do – it is happening throughout the country. It is because age-related benefits, like free bus travel, are being brought in line with the state pension age of 65 for men and women.

It’s important for older people to get out and about so it doesn’t seem fair to make people wait longer for a Gold Card?
It was decided the fairest thing to do would be to make everyone born between 1950 and 1955 wait a little bit longer rather than introduce a one-off rise. This would have meant people nearing 60 having to wait an extra full five years before they could get a Gold Card.

I am already 60. When can I get a Gold Card?
If you are already 60 and don’t yet have a Gold Card you can apply for one straight away.

I am disabled. Do I have to wait longer to get a Gold Card?
If you qualify for Gold Card because of disability you can apply for a Gold Card immediately, regardless of your age.

I was born after April 61955. When do I get a Gold Card?
You will get your Gold Card on your 65th birthday.

How can I find out more about Gold Card?
Derbyshire Gold card is issued by your local district, borough or city council. Please contact them for information about your card - their telephone numbers can be found on our other councils contact page.

Or contact Call Derbyshire 08 456 058 058 between 8am and 8pm weekdays, 9.30am and 4pm Saturdays. Call charges to this number may vary and calls from mobiles may cost considerably more. You may also contact Call Derbyshire on 01629 533190.