Published on
September 3, 2025
As of September 3, 2025, Ireland has expanded its free travel initiative for children. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has introduced the Child 5–8 Leap Card, which allows children between the ages of 5 and 8 to travel for free on all Transport for Ireland (TFI) services. With this new program, approximately 263,000 children across the country are now eligible for free public transport, available until their 9th birthday.
Families can apply for this new card via the official TFI website, leapcard.ie. The Child 5–8 Leap Card provides a seamless travel experience for families using the broad network of TFI services, including Dublin Bus, Iarnród Éireann, LUAS, Bus Éireann, Go-Ahead Ireland, and TFI Local Link.
The Benefits of Free Travel for Children
This initiative is a step forward in making Ireland’s transport system more accessible and sustainable. The introduction of the Child 5–8 Leap Card eliminates the need for families to worry about the cost of transport for young children, encouraging them to make use of public transport more often.
Children under 5 years of age already travel for free without needing a card, and now, children aged 5-8 will enjoy the same benefits, helping to make journeys more affordable for families. The program also aims to foster a shift toward more eco-friendly transportation options by encouraging early adoption of public transport habits among younger generations.
How the Card Works
The Child 5–8 Leap Card is available for children up to their 9th birthday, and it covers all TFI services across the country. Parents or guardians can apply for the card online. Once the application is completed, they can use it for free travel on buses, trains, trams, and other public transport across Ireland’s vast network.
Support for Families and Sustainable Travel
This new program is designed to make commuting easier for families. Whether it’s for school trips, family outings, or day-to-day activities, the Child 5–8 Leap Card offers a simple solution to transport costs, supporting families in their everyday routines.
The initiative is also in line with Ireland’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable travel. By making public transport more affordable for families, the government is encouraging families to use environmentally friendly travel options from a young age. This change is part of the National Transport Authority’s ongoing efforts to reduce the reliance on private cars, helping to decrease traffic congestion and environmental impact across the country.
Broader Impact on Ireland’s Transport Network
The introduction of the Child 5–8 Leap Card is part of a larger movement to make Ireland’s public transport system more inclusive. By lowering costs and improving access, this program not only supports families but also strengthens the overall connectivity of the country. Whether in rural areas or urban centers, families will now find it easier to navigate Ireland’s public transport network.
The TFI network connects several major cities, towns, and regions, including Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick, making travel more straightforward for families and visitors. As Ireland continues to develop its transport infrastructure, this initiative further aligns with the country’s efforts to create a more sustainable future, reducing the reliance on cars and promoting greener alternatives.
Making Ireland a More Family-Friendly Destination
From a tourism perspective, this new initiative will likely attract more families to explore Ireland using public transport. Families visiting Ireland can now experience the convenience of free travel on public transport, making it easier for them to explore different parts of the country without the added cost of transport. This is particularly beneficial for families looking to travel across major tourist destinations such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway, where public transport is key to navigating the cities.
With the new Leap Card, families traveling from abroad or within the country can enjoy affordable and easy transportation while sightseeing. The broader use of public transport for visitors also supports Ireland’s goals to promote sustainable tourism and reduce the environmental impact of travel in popular tourist spots.
Moving Towards a Sustainable Future
The Child 5–8 Leap Card represents an important milestone in the country’s commitment to a more sustainable and accessible transport system. By providing free travel for children, the NTA is helping to shape the future of public transport in Ireland, encouraging greener, more eco-friendly practices.
The initiative is also a part of the government’s commitment to supporting families, making life more affordable, and preparing the next generation for a world that values sustainability. The Child 5–8 Leap Card is one of many steps in Ireland’s ongoing efforts to create a more connected, accessible, and sustainable transport system for all.
