Families are being asked to verify that their youngster’s Zip Oyster photocard remains current ahead of the autumn term.
TfL is warning parents to submit fresh applications or extend current passes so pupils can keep enjoying reduced or complimentary transport throughout the city.
The passes cater for children between five and 10 years old, those aged 11 to 15, and individuals aged 16 and above. They provide complimentary or reduced-price journeys on buses, trams and rail services throughout London.
Emma Strain, TfL’s customer director, stated that with the new academic year quickly approaching, parents and carers must examine whether their child’s Zip Oyster photocard remains current and submit an application for a replacement or updated version if required. Having a valid pass before term begins will enable young people to continue accessing affordable transport on London’s Underground, buses and rail services.
The five-to-10 Zip Oyster photocard permits complimentary travel on all buses, the Underground, trams, the Docklands Light Railway, London Overground, the Elizabeth line (excluding the West Drayton-Reading section) and the majority of National Rail services within Greater London.
The 11-to-15 pass provides complimentary bus and tram journeys alongside reduced child fares on the Underground, DLR and other rail services. Guardians are also advised to verify eligibility for 16-plus, 18-plus or apprentice Oyster photocards, which provide additional savings for those in education or apprenticeship programmes.
Applications can be submitted digitally via the TfL website, and passes are generally dispatched within a fortnight of acceptance.
TfL is also promoting the Weekend Hopper fare, which enables unlimited bus and tram trips for £1.75 on Saturdays and Sundays through to the end of August. The reduction is applied automatically when touching in with the same card or device throughout the day.
Full details regarding Zip Oyster photocards and the application procedure can be found on the TfL website at tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel.