As London prepares for the start of the new school year, TfL is reminding parents and guardians to apply for their child's Zip Oyster photocard, or check if their existing one is still valid, to ensure they can continue to travel for free at a reduced rate across the capital.

The Zip Oyster photocards, available for children and young people aged between 5-10, 11-15 and 16+, give free or discounted travel on buses, trams and trains in London.

The card enables supporting safe, green and affordable journeys around London. Parents can apply for a new photocard online via the TfL website.

For school children, travelling with a Zip Oyster photocard supports independence while providing reassurance to families that their children can get to school or visit friends in an affordable way.

The 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard allows free travel on all bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line and most National Rail services in London. The 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard ensures free bus and tram travel and 50 per cent off Tube and rail journeys.

TfL's enforcement officers are regularly deployed across the network to provide reassurance and help keep children and young people safe. TfL also supports schools through its free educational programme, Travel for Life, which aims to encourage young Londoners to travel actively, responsibly and safely to school.

Emma Strain, Customer Director at TfL, said: "Ensuring parents are aware of the free travel and reduced fares that their children may be eligible to receive on our transport services is a priority to us.

"Whether travelling to school or visiting friends, a Zip Oyster photocard is essential to getting around London in the most cost-efficient way possible.

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"We are reminding parents to check their children's Zip Oyster photocards so they can apply for new photocards if required, allowing their children to make the most out of London's Tube, bus and rail network ahead of the new school term."

TfL is also encouraging families to consider sustainable and active modes of travel where possible. Walking, cycling, and using public transport are all accessible options, and TfL has made significant infrastructure investments in recent years to make active journeys safer and easier across the city.

This includes protected cycling lanes, widened pavements, and traffic-free zones outside schools as part of the School Streets programme.

More information about Zip Oyster photocards and how to apply is available on the TfL website at tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel.