Pensioners by age have the right to travel for free on certain types of public transport with a valid pension certificate. If the driver unjustifiably refuses to transport, the passenger can file a complaint. This is reported by Judicial and Legal Newspaper referring to the State Transport Safety Service of Ukraine.
In which transport do pensioners have benefits in Ukraine in 2026
Free travel for pensioners by age is provided in trams, trolleybuses, subways, municipal buses, suburban electric trains, and suburban buses. To use the benefit, one must present a pension certificate.
In private route taxis conditions may differ. Free transport of pensioners in such vehicles depends on local regulations and compensation for costs to the carrier from the community budget.
If the driver refused the legal benefit, the passenger should record:
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the name and contact information of the carrier;
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the full name of the driver;
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the state or serial number of the vehicle;
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the route number, place, and time of the trip;
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the contacts of witnesses, if any.
It is also advisable to keep the ticket or other document that confirms the trip. If possible, the circumstances of the refusal can be documented with photos or videos.
Where to complain about the driver in Ukraine in 2026
A statement can be filed with the carrier, the transportation department of the city council, the State Service of Ukraine for Transport Safety, or its local division. In the case of a conflict or violation of public order, one can contact the police at number 102.
In the complaint, it is necessary to describe the circumstances of the refusal and provide information about the transport, route, driver, and carrier. It is recommended to attach a copy of the pension certificate, ticket, and any available photos or videos to the application. If the matter goes to court, testimonies from other passengers may serve as additional evidence.
It is worth reminding that in Kirovohrad region, veterans and families of the deceased have the right to free travel.