School transport in Ireland is organised under a national scheme. Bus Éireann operates the service on behalf of the Department of Education, while eligibility is set by the scheme rules. The Committee does not decide individual applications, but its staff can help families understand the process.
Who can apply
Eligibility generally depends on the distance between home and the nearest suitable school, and on whether a child has special educational needs. Children with special educational needs may be eligible for transport under a separate arrangement, even where distance would not qualify them.
- Primary children who live a qualifying distance from their nearest school.
- Post primary children who live a qualifying distance from their nearest school.
- Children with special educational needs, where transport is recommended.
- Other categories set out in the scheme, including some children from the Traveller community and some pupils attending Irish medium schools.
How to apply
Applications are made through the national school transport system, normally before the start of the school year. You will need the pupil's details, the school, the home address and payment information. Late applications may still be considered, but a seat is not guaranteed.
- Check the current scheme rules and closing dates on the official school transport page.
- Create or update your family account and add each child.
- Select the school and route, then pay the required contribution.
- Keep the receipt and application reference.
- Contact the office if you need help understanding a decision or a route.
Concessionary seats
Where a bus has spare capacity, concessionary seats may be offered to pupils who do not meet the eligibility rules. These seats are reviewed each year and can be withdrawn if eligible pupils later need the space. A concessionary seat is not a permanent entitlement.
Special educational needs
Transport for children with special educational needs is arranged separately and may involve a taxi, a minibus or an escort. The school and the National Council for Special Education are usually involved in the application. Early contact helps to avoid delays.
Local help
The Committee's office can answer general questions and direct families to the correct operator or department. If a route is not running as expected, contact the transport operator in the first instance and keep a note of the time and details.
Routes, timetables and closing dates change each year. Always check the official scheme information before you apply or pay.