Teenagers apply now for free or discounted London travel

What's this about?

From Saturday 30 September, all 16-17 year olds (plus 17-18 year olds still in full time education) who use London's buses or trams will need to have a valid 'Zip' (photographic Oyster card) to get free or discounted travel. From then on, anyone 16 and above who doesn't have a photocard will be expected to pay the adult cash rate, which, at £2 a time, will soon mount up.

It's free to get a Zip, so if you know anyone aged 16 to 18 using London's network, urge them or their guardian to get the card as soon as possible.

What to do?

• If you already have a Zip: As it expires on 30 September you'll need to return your application form in the pre-paid envelope you received by Saturday 13 September.
  
  
• If you're a new applicant: You'll need to order it at the Post Office by this Saturday, 13 September.

How to get a new Zip

Anyone aged 16 to 17 can get one. If you're 18 but live in a London Borough and are still in full-time education you can also get one.

• If you live in London: Application forms are available at Post Offices (see which Post Offices you can get them from), at some colleges, or you can request one online or by calling 0845 330 9876.
  
  If you're still in full time education you'll need to get it signed by your school or college. Once completed, it'll need to be taken to a Post Office with a valid passport, ID card (from a European Economic Association country) or birth certificate, plus a passport-sized photo.
  
  You'll need to do this by this Saturday, 13 September.

• If you live outside of London:
  
  It's too late if you'll need to use it before 30 September but if you'll need one after that then request a visitor's form online and return it with a passport photo and £5 deposit at least four weeks before needing to use it. It can then be collected from a Travel Information Centre in London of your choice but you'll need to take a passport/birth certificate or EEC ID card there too.
  
  The £5 deposit will be credited on the card for PAYG use or you can opt for a refund.

Additional information on the Zip scheme is available on Transport for London's website.

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