Free Public Transport in Singapore for Kids Under 7: What Parents Should Know
Getting around Singapore is incredibly easy, and for young children, it’s also free. The Child Concession Card is designed to make public transport simple and affordable for families. It allows children to travel for free on buses and MRT/LRT services, except on Premium Bus and NightRider services. Here's a complete guide for parents and caregivers.
Who Can Apply?
Your child is eligible for a Child Concession Card if:
They are at least 0.9 meters tall
They are under 7 years old
They are not enrolled in a primary school
Children who are shorter than 0.9 meters can travel free without a card, as long as they are accompanied by a fare-paying adult.
How to Apply
You can apply at any SimplyGo Ticket Office. The process is easy and the card is ready to use right away. No activation is needed.
Bring the following documents:
For Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents: Original birth certificate
For Non-Citizens: Original passport
If someone is applying on your behalf: Their original NRIC or passport
There is no application fee, and each child is entitled to one card.
The card will include your child’s name, date of birth, birth certificate or passport number, and the expiry date.
Usage and Top-Ups
The card allows free travel on standard public transport services. However, if your child travels on Premium Bus or NightRider services, you will need to top up the card with stored value, and adult cash fares will apply.
If the card becomes faulty or damaged, it can be replaced at no cost. If the damage is not due to a technical issue, a $13 administrative fee will apply.
Validity Period
The Child Concession Card is valid until 30 April of the year your child turns seven years old, no matter which month they were born. This makes it easier for all children to switch to the Primary School Smart Card at the same time.
If your child is not attending a primary school that year, you can call the SimplyGo Hotline at 1800-2255 663 for help at least three months before the expiry date. Your child may qualify for a Non-MOE School Smart Card instead.
You can check the expiry date at any:
SimplyGo Ticket Office
SimplyGo Kiosk
Assisted Service Kiosk
Returning the Card and Getting a Refund
When your child receives a new Primary School Smart Card or no longer needs the Child Concession Card, you can return it at any SimplyGo Ticket Office.
To receive a refund of any unused travel value, bring:
For Singapore Citizens: Original or photocopy of NRIC or birth certificate
For Permanent Residents or Non-Citizens: Original or photocopy of birth certificate or passport
If someone else is collecting the refund: Their original NRIC or passport
If the card is expired, the refund cannot be issued immediately. You will be given a receipt and can collect the refund after 10 working days from any SimplyGo Ticket Office.
If you want to apply for a new card later, there will be a $13 administrative fee.
The Child Concession Card is a great way to help young children travel freely and safely around Singapore. It’s free to apply, easy to use, and helps families save on daily transport costs.
