Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
With a Gold Card you get free bus travel anywhere in England. You can also get discounts at more than 1,300 shops and other businesses and it can be used to borrow at all Derbyshire and Derby City libraries.
Before contacting the Gold Card office see if these FAQs can help.
My Gold Card expired in March 2013. Can I still get a new one?
Yes you can request a new Gold Card even if your old one has now expired. You need to get in touch with your local district or borough council − the one you pay your Council Tax to. If you live in Derby, contact Derby City Council.
When will I get my new Gold Card?
You should receive your new Gold Card within a week of requesting it. If it does not arrive within this time, contact your local council.
Why do I have to tell you if my circumstances have changed?
It's important that you tell us if your circumstances change as it helps us keep our Gold Card records up to date. If you need a new Gold Card in the future it means there is less chance of us sending out a card in error, for example to the wrong address.
I've moved out of Derbyshire. Can I still have a Gold Card?
No, Gold Cards are only for Derbyshire residents. But if you continue to be eligible, you will still be entitled to the equivalent English National Concessionary Travel Scheme bus pass in the area where you now live − the area in which you pay council tax.
I don't need a Gold Card any more. What should I do?
If you no longer need a Gold Card it is better that you let us know so that we can update our records and avoid sending you something you don't want.
A relative of mine has died. What should I do with their Gold Card?
You should tell us if someone you know no longer needs a Gold Card so we can cancel it and avoid sending them a card in the future. You should destroy their old card carefully.
Can I get a new photograph for my new Gold Card?
If you think your photograph is out of date and not a good likeness you can get a new one taken, free-of-charge, at a photography session at your local district or borough council office.
Where can I travel by bus free of charge?
With Gold Card, 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 in the UK?
No. You can only get free bus travel in England. Gold Card is not valid in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.
Can I use Derbyshire Gold to get free train travel?
No. You can no longer get half fare local train travel with Gold Card.
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 councils will only provide additional services for their own residents. To avoid doubt, 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.
How do I get discounts in shops with my Gold Card?
Firstly, view the full list of discounters online or get a free copy of the latest Gold Card Discount Directory from your local district or borough council office, any of our libraries or from Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058.
There are more than 1,000 shops, restaurants, pubs and services in and around Derbyshire that give a Gold Card discount, typically of 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. If you are using a service, for example a tradesman, you should tell them you'd like a Gold Card discount before you agree the price.
I have lost my Gold Card, how do I get a new one?
Contact the local district or borough council that issued your card. They will already 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?
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 may be issued with a ticket. When you make the return journey you will need to show your Gold Card. 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 do not qualify for a Gold Card on age?
Some younger people may qualify for Gold Card if they have a disability.
This includes people who are:
- blind or partially sighted
- profoundly or severely deaf
- without speech
- without arms or have the long term loss of the use of both arms
- have a long-term disability which seriously impairs their 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?
Anyone born on or after 6 April 1950 will have to wait extra time before they are eligible for a Gold Card.
This is not something we 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.
Type your date of birth in our eligibility calculator (opens in a new window) to find out when you can apply.
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 immediately, regardless of your age.
I was born after 6 April 1955. 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 through 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.
Alternatively, contact Call Derbyshire on 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.
