If you’re 60 years or older, here’s how free fares and discounts work for interstate bus travel. It’s all guaranteed under the Elderly Statute!
How does free fare work?
Bus companies must reserve two free seats for seniors on every conventional bus for interstate travel. If those seats are already taken, you’re entitled to a minimum 50% discount on the ticket price for other seats.
Who qualifies?
- Seniors aged 60 or older;
- With an income equal to or less than two minimum wages.
How to request the benefit?
- Through our system: You can request the free fare by filling out the request form. If your trip includes a return, don’t forget to request the return reservation as well.
- Directly with the bus company: You can also request the benefit directly at the bus company in your departure city, up to 3 hours before departure. If it’s a round trip, make sure to request the return reservation too.
What happens if no one claims the free seats?
After the 3-hour deadline, if the reserved senior seats aren’t taken, the bus company may sell them. But if they remain unsold, they’ll still be available for you to request the free fare.
How to request the 50% discount?
To secure the discount, pay attention to these timeframes:
- Trips up to 500 km: The discount is only valid if requested at least 6 hours before the trip.
- Trips over 500 km: The timeframe extends to 12 hours before departure.
How to prove your income?
You can use any of the following documents to prove your income:
- Updated work card;
- Pay stub or employer-issued document;
- Social security contribution booklet;
- Benefit payment statement or declaration from INSS or another public/private social security system;
- Document issued by Social Assistance Departments.
If you don’t have any of these documents, request the Elderly ID Card from the Municipal Social Assistance Department in your city, or equivalent offices. All city governments are required to issue this document!