Getting a Blue Badge
Disabled parking permits Getting a Blue Badge Parking Permit A Blue Badge can help disabled people, people with certain health […]
Getting a Blue Badge Parking Permit
A Blue Badge can help disabled people, people with certain health conditions, and those who care for them park closer to where they need to go.
This guide explains who may qualify for a Blue Badge, how long it usually lasts, how to apply, and what to do if you move house or if your badge is lost or stolen.
Some people qualify automatically, while others may need an assessment
Blue Badge eligibility depends on your disability, health condition, mobility needs, benefit awards, or the needs of a child in your care.
Automatic Eligibility
Some people qualify without a further assessment because of certain benefits or registered sight loss.
Assessed Eligibility
Other people may qualify if their disability or health condition makes walking very difficult.
Children Under Two
Parents may be able to apply if a child needs bulky medical equipment or must stay close to a vehicle.
People who may not need an assessment
Some people are automatically eligible for a Blue Badge. The exact rules can depend on your benefit award and where you live, so it is always worth checking the latest guidance before applying.
- People who receive certain qualifying mobility benefits
- People who are registered blind
- People who receive War Pensioners Mobility Supplement
- People who meet certain Personal Independence Payment criteria
People who may need to be assessed
You may also be eligible if you have a permanent and substantial disability which means you cannot walk, or which makes walking very difficult.
You may also qualify if you drive regularly, have a severe disability in both arms, and cannot operate some or all types of parking meter.
If you do not automatically qualify, your local council will usually ask questions and may request further information from a doctor or independent health professional.
Parents may be able to apply for a child
If a child is under two years old, a Blue Badge may be available in specific medical circumstances.
- The child must always be accompanied by bulky medical equipment
- The equipment cannot be carried around without great difficulty
- The child needs to be kept near a vehicle for treatment
- The child may need to be quickly driven somewhere for medical care
You can use a Blue Badge as a driver or passenger
A Blue Badge is personal to the badge holder. You do not need to own or drive a car yourself. You can use it in any vehicle you are travelling in, whether you are the driver or a passenger.
Driver
Use the badge when you are driving and parking for your own needs.
Passenger
Use the badge when someone else is driving you and the journey is for you.
Personal to You
The badge is for the badge holder, not simply for a specific car.
Blue Badges usually last up to three years
In most cases, a Blue Badge is issued for up to three years. You should apply for a renewal before your current badge expires.
Some badges may last for less than three years. For example, if your eligibility is linked to a time-limited benefit award, the badge may only be valid for the same period.
Apply through your local council or GOV.UK
Local councils are responsible for issuing Blue Badges. You can usually apply online, renew a badge, or find out what evidence you need through GOV.UK.
You may need to provide proof of identity, proof of address, a recent photograph, details of your condition, and evidence of qualifying benefits if relevant.
Fees vary depending on where you live. GOV.UK says a Blue Badge costs up to £10 in England, up to £20 in Scotland, and is free in Wales.
Before applying, have ready:
- Your personal details
- Proof of address
- Proof of identity
- A recent digital or passport-style photo
- Details of your disability or health condition
- Benefit evidence if you automatically qualify
What if your Blue Badge application is refused?
If your council decides you do not qualify for a Blue Badge, you may be able to ask them to look at the decision again.
This can be useful if you feel important information was not considered, or if your mobility problems have become more severe since your assessment.
Each council has its own process, so check your refusal letter or contact the council that handled your application.
Moving house, lost badges and stolen badges
You should contact the council that issued your badge if your details change, or if your badge is lost, stolen or damaged.
Looking for a wheelchair accessible car or van?
Our team can help you compare wheelchair accessible vehicles and choose the right layout for your needs.
This page is general guidance only. Blue Badge rules and fees can change, so always check the latest GOV.UK or local council information before applying.