Thousands of Derbyshire Gold Card holders - which entitle older people and those with certain disabilities to free off-peak local bus travel - have been warned that expiry dates are looming.
Gold Card holders throughout South Derbyshire are being warned to check the validity dates on their cards, which can also be used to obtain discounts at some 700 shops and businesses and borrow items from any county library.
Most Gold Cards are valid for five years for older people and some disabled recipients, with around 108,000 of the 185,000 currently in circulation due for renewal soon – with the majority expiring in September and October 2017.
Councillor Trevor Ainsworth, the county council's deputy cabinet member for highways, transport and infrastructure, said: "Cards are issued automatically when the personal information we hold exactly matches electoral data. Where we haven't been able to check this, card holders will have to renew themselves.
"It is simple to renew and hundreds have already successfully requested new cards. I would encourage others to follow this lead so they can continue to benefit from free travel and other discounts."
The application form can be completed by Gold Card holders whose circumstances have not changed since they were issued with their current card, and disabled card holders who do not need to show continuing proof of eligibility.
Any card holder whose circumstances have changed since they were issued with their present card − for example those who have moved address within Derbyshire or changed their name − cannot apply online.
Existing Gold Card holders who have not yet received a new one, and whose cards expire within the next two months, can visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk and fill in an online form.
First-time Gold Card applicants will need to download and complete an application form at www.derbyshire.gov.uk
Those without internet access can call the District Council on 01283 595795 or visit the Civic Offices in Swadlincote. Online renewals can also be made at Derbyshire libraries, where staff can help if required.
Card holders who move out of Derbyshire are no longer eligible for a Gold Card but may still apply for the equivalent in their new local authority area.
