Transport
Free public transport in Maastricht: who qualifies and how
Residents on a low income can travel free off-peak by bus and train through Dal Vrij Limburg. Who qualifies, how to apply, and why SAB wants over-65s included.
If you have no car, you depend on the bus. For people on a small income that is an expensive dependency. Residents of Maastricht on a low income can now travel free off-peak by bus and train.
Dal Vrij Limburg: what it is
Dal Vrij Limburg is a pass from the province of Limburg and the operator Arriva. Residents on a minimum income travel free during off-peak hours: outside rush hour on weekdays, and all weekend and on public holidays.
It applies on Arriva buses and trains within Limburg.
Who is it for?
For residents on a low income. Even if you have no benefit but do have a small income, you can apply. Your income is checked during the application.
Over-65s are not automatically included. There is no separate age-based scheme in Maastricht. If you have only a state pension and a small additional pension, you may qualify on the basis of your income.
How to apply
- You apply yourself, online through the Arriva website
- You need DigiD
- Your income is checked during the application
The council cannot apply on your behalf. If applying online does not work for you, SAB’s help desk will assist free of charge.
What SAB has asked for
SAB asked the council to include over-65s in free off-peak travel as well. That request was not taken up, on the grounds that it would target a single group.
We continue to press for it. A pensioner on a small income who sits just above the threshold qualifies for nothing and stays at home. That is precisely the isolation the council writes policy against elsewhere.
Frequently asked questions
Outside rush hour on weekdays, plus the whole weekend and public holidays. The pass does not apply during the morning and evening peak.
No. You apply yourself, online through Arriva. Your income is checked as part of the application. If you cannot manage on your own, we will help you.
That depends on your income, not on your age. If you are below the income threshold you can apply. If you are just above it you fall outside — and that is exactly what SAB wants to change.
Yes, within Limburg, on Arriva buses and trains during off-peak hours.
Cannot work it out?
The help desk helps you free of charge, including with reports and applications. Fill in the form and we will get in touch.
Go to the help desk