Starting September 3, 2025, Ireland took a significant step toward supporting families and empowering its youngest citizens. Now, children ages 5 to 8 across the country can travel for free on all public transportation services using a brand-new Child Leap Card. This simple but powerful measure provides not only immediate economic relief for over 263,000 eligible families but also sets a positive tone for communities, mobility, and the future of public services. Under the initiative, children with a Child Leap Card are permitted to board buses and trains free. The smart card is easy to apply for and use, ensuring little hassle for parents and smooth travel for kids. Significant savings are associated with the card, including weekly fares dropping from €16 to €10.60 ($18.64 to $12.35), a 33% reduction for those with older siblings, and zero for child cardholders. The change ensures that no child is left on the platform because of financial pressures, and no parent has to stress over their child’s daily fare.
