Make sure you touch your Freedom pass on the yellow circle card readers when you enter a train station and when you exit.
For buses, trams and Docklands Light Railway (DLR) you will only need to touch your card on the reader when boarding.
Do's and Don'ts
What we recommend you do and what we recommend you don't do with your pass.
What we recommend you do and what we recommend you don't do with your pass.
What to do
Touch in & out
Keep your address details up to date
If you move to a new address, it's important that you update your Freedom pass account.
When your pass is due for renewal, we automatically send you a new pass. Any pass sent to the incorrect address could incur a replacement fee charge.
Details of how to change your address are found on the change of details page
Always be ready for inspection
You should be ready to show your Freedom Pass to station staff or ticket inspectors if requested.
For more information please read Transport for London's Conditions of Carriage.
Look after your pass
Your Freedom Pass contains a delicate electronic chip and aerial which allow it to communicate with card readers across the transport network. Looking after your pass will help ensure it continues to work correctly.
To help prevent damage, please:
- Keep your pass in a wallet, purse or protective card holder.
- Avoid bending, folding or applying pressure to your pass.
- Keep your pass away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
- Avoid scratching, cutting or damaging the surface of the pass.
Damaged passes that no longer work incur a cost for a replacement card.
If your pass goes through a washing machine
A Freedom Pass that has been through a washing machine may stop working, even if there is no visible damage to the card.
If this happens, you will need to follow the process for replacing a damaged or faulty pass.
Please note that if the pass is found to have been damaged, including damage caused by liquids, cleaning products or washing machines, the replacement fee will apply.
What NOT to do
Don't lend your card to someone else
The Freedom Pass is only to be used by the authorised holder.
Please do not lend your pass to friends or relatives.
Misuse of the Freedom Pass can result in the pass being revoked.
Don't keep your pass with contactless payment cards
Ensure that you keep your Freedom pass separate from your contactless payment cards.
If you touch a purse or wallet containing your Freedom Pass and a contactless payment card onto a yellow reader, the reader may charge your payment card for the journey rather than recognising your Freedom Pass.
If you have a valid Freedom Pass and have been charged a fare on your contactless payment card, please contact TfL Customer Services on 0343 222 1234 to apply for a refund. You will need to advise them of your Freedom Pass number, name and bank account details.
Visit the TFL website to find out more about contactless payments.
Don't keep near Electronics
Keep your Freedom Pass away from mobile phones and all other electrical devices as this can result in the pass being damaged.
Damaged passes that no longer work incur a cost for a replacement card.
Don't clean your pass
Cleaning products and liquids can damage the electronic chip and aerial inside the pass, which may stop it from working correctly.
Please do not:
- Use disinfectant sprays, cleaning products, bleach, alcohol wipes or solvents.
- Soak the pass in water or any other liquid.
- Place the pass in a washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher.
If your pass becomes dirty, gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth.
Where your pass is valid and between what times