Free public transport for over-65s brings queues to Lignes d’Azur offices
Free public transport for residents aged over 65 has come into effect across the Nice Côte d’Azur metropolitan area, prompting a surge in registrations and long queues at Lignes d’Azur offices.
From Tuesday 1 September, eligible residents can travel free of charge on the network’s buses and trams, provided they have a dedicated travel pass which must be validated on every journey.
Listen to this article
The measure was announced in May by Nice Mayor and Metropolitan President Éric Ciotti, with registrations opening at the end of July.
More than 20,000 people have already registered, according to figures reported by Nice-Matin, including around 10,000 people who are new to the Lignes d’Azur network.
The launch has coincided with the start of the new school year, when large numbers of pupils and students are also visiting Lignes d’Azur offices to buy or renew their passes.
Long queues have been reported at the Espace Mobilités on Boulevard Dubouchage in central Nice.
Additional seasonal staff have been brought in to check documents and help reduce waiting times.
First-time applicants are also being encouraged to apply online rather than visit an office.
To obtain the free pass, eligible residents must provide documents including proof of identity, proof of address and a passport photo.
Despite the expected increase in passenger numbers, Lignes d’Azur says it is not concerned about overcrowding, as older passengers are generally expected to travel at different times from commuters.
The network recorded more than 108 million bus and tram journeys in 2025, and the new scheme is expected to bring thousands of additional passengers onto public transport across the metropolitan area.