Knowledge Centre

Your guide to the National Entitlement Card (NEC)

The National Entitlement Card (NEC) is a smartcard that helps you travel around Scotland for free or at a discount. It’s available to people with vision impairment. What you can get depends on whether you are registered as sight impaired (partially sighted) or severely sight impaired (blind).

Certificate of Visual Impairment Registration

 

What does the NEC offer for people who are registered as severely sight impaired (blind)?

Free bus travel

If you are severely sight impaired, you can travel free on buses across Scotland. This is available any time of day on most bus routes. A companion can travel for free with you if the “+1” is on your card.

 

Free train travel

If you are severely sight impaired (blind), your NEC will have a special symbol (usually a “+1”). This lets you travel for free on trains in Scotland.

A companion can also travel with you for a reduced fare in some council areas if the “+1” is on your card.

 

Free ferry travel

If you are severely sight impaired (blind), your NEC also gives you free ferry travel on many routes in Scotland. A companion can travel for free with you if the “+1” is on your card.

 

What if I’m registered as sight impaired (partially sighted)?

Free travel on buses

Your NEC allows you to travel for free on buses across Scotland, giving you freedom and independence.

 

Train and ferry travel

If you are sight impaired (partially sighted), you may not automatically qualify for free train or ferry travel through the NEC. Eligibility depends on meeting additional criteria, such as receiving certain benefits, including:

• Attendance Allowance
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

If you do not qualify for free travel through the NEC, you may still be eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard, which offers discounted rail fares. Click the link below to learn more:

Disabled Persons Railcard

 

What does the National Entitlement Card look like?

Sight impaired (partially sighted)

ID: Example of an NEC for someone who is registered sight impaired.

 

Your NEC may look something like this. The orange ‘C Eye’ logo indicates free concessionary travel for people who are sight impaired (partially sighted).

 

Severely sight impaired (blind)

ID: Example of an NEC for someone who is registered severely sight impaired. 

Your NEC may look something like this. The orange ‘C+1 Eye’ logo indicates free concessionary travel for people who are severely sight impaired (blind) individuals, plus a companion

 

How to apply for the National Entitlement Card (NEC)

Applying for the NEC is straightforward, but the steps and requirements may vary depending on whether you are partially sighted or severely sight impaired (blind).

 

Step 1: Contact your local council

You can apply for the NEC through your local council. Most councils have an online application process, but you can also apply in person or by post. Visit your local council’s website or call them to start the application process.

 

Step 2: Provide the correct proof of eligibility

You’ll need to provide documents showing you are eligible for the NEC. The type of proof required depends on whether you are partially sighted or severely sight impaired:

 

If you are sight impaired (partially sighted): Provide a Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI) confirming your sight impairment (partially sighted). Some councils may accept registration with the local sight loss register as evidence.

 

If you are severely sight impaired (blind): Provide a Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI) confirming your severe sight impairment (blind).

A letter from your ophthalmologist or proof of registration as blind with your local authority is also valid.

 

If applying for free train and ferry travel, ensure you submit this documentation so your NEC can include the “+1” symbol, allowing a companion to travel with you for free.

 

Step 3: Submit your application

Complete the application form provided by your local council.

Attach the required proof of your vision impairment (CVI or equivalent).

Include a passport-style photograph if needed (some councils may take this in person).

 

Ways to submit your application:

• Online: Upload your documents directly through your council’s website.
• In Person: Visit a local council office or library where staff can help you complete the application.
• By Post: Send the form and supporting documents to your council’s address.

 

Step 4: Wait for your NEC to arrive

Once your application has been processed, your NEC will be sent to you by post. This can take up to four weeks, so plan ahead if you need the card for travel.