Tap On/Tap Off fare system and National Entitlement Card reimbursement information: FOI release

Information requested

Regarding the Tap On/Tap Off fare system and government reimbursements for NEC (National Entitlement Card) journeys:

1. Does the “Tap On – Tap Off” fare system operate on any First Bus services in Aberdeen?

If so, which routes are included?

Are passengers required to “tap off” at the end of each journey?

How are passengers informed of this requirement?

2. What fare is applied in cases where the passenger only performs a “tap on” but does not tap off?

3. How does Transport Scotland calculate reimbursement to operators in such cases?

Is reimbursement based on the maximum fare, regardless of actual journey length?

Are there controls in place to verify that passengers were charged appropriately?

4. Does Transport Scotland require operators to issue a physical or digital ticket when a contactless bank card (non-NEC) is used for fare payment?

5. Has Transport Scotland received any complaints or concerns regarding the absence of “tap off” usage, particularly among NEC users (children, young people, pensioners)?

6. Please provide data for the last three financial years (2022–2025) regarding:

a. The total number of NEC journeys registered by First Bus (or First Aberdeen Ltd),

b. The total reimbursement paid to First Bus under the NEC scheme.

Response

While our aim is to provide information whenever possible, in this instance the Scottish Government does not have some of the information you have requested. The reasons why we don’t have the information are explained in the responses below.

In answer to your questions:

For questions 1 and 2 - An exemption, Section 17, applies that we do not hold this information. National Entitlement Cards (NECs) are not compatible for use with First Bus “tap on/tap off” systems. Any queries regarding the terms and conditions of using “tap on/tap off”, for non-concessionary travel on First should be directed to them. Details of how to contact First can be found on their website.

3. As the National Concessionary Travel Schemes are not accessible through “tap on/tap off” with First, there is no impact on reimbursements made.

4. Transport Scotland have no input or authority on a commercial bus operators travel conditions including ticket issuance.

5. “Tap off” is not available for use with a NEC so this is not a situation that can occur.

6a. – Please find the data in the Annex attached as requested. Please note that there are three First bodies that operate within the National Concessionary Travel Schemes and data for all three has been provided.

6b. – Please refer to the recent response to your FOI, reference 202500464827, issued 29 May 2025 for this answer.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.

FOI 202500465728 - Information released - Annex

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