FREE bus pass holders are being reminded they only have until the end of this month to apply for new electronic cards.

The existing green bus passes are being phased out and have no longer been recognised on electronic scanners on buses since December 31 but passengers have been able to keep using them as a grace period was agreed with operators that allowed cardholders to continue to use their old cards.

The grace period is due to come to an end on February 29, which means that from March 1 only the new-style cards will be accepted for travel.

James Price, chief executive of Transport for Wales, said: “We’ve received close to 600,000 bus pass applications over the past five months, with the hard work still taking place as applications continue to be processed every day to make sure we send out people’s new cards as quickly as possible.

“Whilst it’s very positive to see that the majority of regular bus pass passengers have received their new cards, it’s essential that we remind everyone who has a yet to apply to do so as soon as possible to ensure they’re able to continue to enjoy the benefits of their bus pass after February 29.

“If anyone is aware of a neighbour, family member or friend who has a bus pass, we’re asking if they can please help by making sure they’ve applied for their replacement pass as soon as possible.

“We’re continuing to work very closely with all local authorities and bus operators to make sure we have a smooth as possible transition in place after the agreed grace period comes to an end. This is essential to make sure we’re supporting the most vulnerable passengers with their travel experiences.”

Transport for Wales is encouraging cardholders to apply online if they can via the website www.tfw.wales/travelcards. Online is the quickest way to apply as cardholders may not have to provide a new photo or documentation, as details are checked electronically against government databases. Support with applying online is available from local councils, or cardholders can ask someone they trust to apply on their behalf. Paper applications are also available, but Transport for Wales do stress that this way does take longer to process.

If anyone has any concerns, Transport for Wales are asking people to get in touch straight away by calling the helpline on 0300 303 4240 or emailing the team at [email protected]s.