A gratuidade no transporte para idosos representa mais do que apenas um benefÃcio; ela oferece aos mais velhos uma maneira mais acessÃvel de se deslocar e de participar ativamente da sociedade. Entender e reivindicar esse direito é o primeiro passo para garantir que os cidadãos da terceira idade sejam protagonistas em suas comunidades.
According to the law, senior citizens are entitled to free and discounted travel, measures that favor their mobility and independence. The statute that protects senior citizens establishes these guarantees and is an important milestone in the fight for greater respect and quality of life for this segment of the population.
If you are over 60 – or even if you know someone who is – and want to know how to take advantage of these benefits, stay with me. Let's understand how this free travel option works and what you need to do to be able to travel free of charge or with a discount!
How does free travel for seniors work?
As you saw, the Elderly Statute ensures this benefit and offers two free spaces per vehicle on interstate transport, in addition to a 50% discount on other tickets, if the reserved spaces are already occupied.
To take advantage of this benefit, there is a specific period for booking the free ticket, which can be done up to 30 working days before the travel date.
But be careful, this reservation must be made up to 3 hours before the departure time – in other words, don't leave it to the last minute, as the chance of getting the benefit may decrease as the time of travel approaches.
It is essential to be aware of the rules so as not to miss out on the opportunity to enjoy this right. Be aware that the number of free places is limited, and as demand is high, it is recommended that you organize your trip well in advance.
Additionally, have all the necessary documents on hand to present when booking your ticket, thus facilitating the entire process.
Who can have free passage under the law?
If you are 60 years of age or older and your individual income is up to two minimum wages, the benefit of free tickets is your guaranteed right. According to the Elderly Statute, these criteria include both free travel for elderly people on interstate buses and a 50% discount on tickets when these seats are already occupied.
Knowing that the statute protects the elderly is reassuring, as you will have the security of counting on the support of the law when planning your trips. Take advantage of these conditions and enjoy new experiences without worrying about the cost of tickets.
How to issue the Senior Citizen Card
To guarantee your free travel ticket, it is important to have a Senior Citizen Card, and to issue it, there are some steps to be followed. One of the requirements is to be registered with the Single Registry, a system that identifies low-income families, allowing access to government social programs.
The first step is to visit a Social Assistance Reference Center (CRAS) in your city, where you can request the issuance of a Senior Citizen Card. With the correct documentation, the process is simple and CRAS employees will guide you through each step.
The expectation is that within 90 days you will receive the Senior Citizen Card at home, but if you need to travel before that deadline, you can obtain a Provisional Declaration that gives you the same right to free travel.
What documents are required?
If you want to guarantee your right to free travel or a discount on interstate transport, you need to have your documentation up to date. In addition to your identity card and Senior Citizen Card, other documents are requested to prove your economic situation.
Take with you a pay slip, your contribution booklet National Social Security Institute (INSS), the benefit payment statement or a formal declaration from the INSS that proves your income. These documents serve to confirm that your income meets the criteria required by law.
If you work and contribute to Social Security, an updated employment record is also a way to demonstrate your monthly income. In some cases, other proof of income may be requested, but these are usually sufficient.
What are the rules imposed by the government?
One of the rules is that interstate passenger transport companies reserve two free seats on each trip for people aged 60 or over and with an income equal to or less than two minimum wages.
If these seats are already occupied, as you have already seen, the elderly person is entitled to a 50% discount on the price of the ticket. If the bus company or transportation service does not respect this right, you can and should take action.
One option is to file a complaint with ANTT Ombudsman, the National Land Transport Agency, the body responsible for monitoring and ensuring that the rules are complied with.
In the event of any irregularity or refusal, do not hesitate to seek assistance from the ombudsman or public defender. Your right is protected by ANTT resolution no. 1,692 and other state laws that may apply.
How can an elderly person apply to use the benefit?
If you are already planning your trip and want to take advantage of the free ticket, first, get your ID and proof of income ready. With these documents, You can go to a service point of the transport company and make the request.
Don't forget that in order to board, in addition to making the request, you must have all the documents that prove that you have this right – which includes, for example, your photo ID and Senior Citizen Card or, if it has not yet been issued, the provisional declaration.
Does the benefit also apply to plane tickets?
Many people wonder whether free travel and discounts for senior citizens also apply to air tickets. The answer is that, generally, the benefit we are talking about here applies more to the land transport system.
When it comes to state air travel, some states have their own laws that provide discounts for those aged 65 or over. So, it's a good idea to check the state law in your region and consult the airlines to find out more about these discounts.
Finally, it is important to remember that information about free services may change. Therefore, it is essential that you stay constantly informed and keep an eye on updates to government programs.
Conclusion
While reading, You understood the details about how to acquire this facility and its importance for the quality of life of those who have already contributed so much to society..
To enjoy your right, it is extremely important to be aware of the guidelines and changes in policies aimed at free services that may be determined by regulatory agencies such as ANTT.
This way, the guarantee of a safe and cost-free trip will be increasingly within your reach, allowing you to enjoy unforgettable experiences during your golden years. Happy travels!
