Blue Badge Guide – Parking for Disabled People in the UK

Understanding the Blue Badge Disability Benefit in the UK

The Blue Badge scheme is a cornerstone of accessibility in the UK, designed to provide parking privileges for people with disabilities or health conditions that make walking difficult. Our Purpl guide looks at the Blue Badge scheme, explaining its purpose, eligibility criteria, application process and benefits.

I hesitated to get a Blue Badge when my walking first worsened, feeling I wasn’t ‘disabled enough.’ But parking closer made life easier, preventing my legs from giving out. Now I mostly use a wheelchair, but the badge gives me some independence, letting me reach places on my own and rest when needed.
Georgina, Founder of Purpl

The Purpose of the Blue Badge Scheme
Understanding Blue Badge Eligibility
Who is Automatically Eligible for a Blue Badge?
Who Else Can Apply for a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge Application Process
Personal Information Required for a Blue Badge Application
What Evidence is Required for a Blue Badge Application?
Evidence Required for Disabled Individuals who are Automatically Eligible
Evidence Required for Disabled People who are not Automatically Eligible
What Happens After You Have Applied for a Blue Badge
How to Appeal a Blue Badge Decision
Reapplying for your Blue Badge
Your Responsibilities as a Blue Badge Holder
How to Display Your Blue Badge
When to Use the Parking Clock with your Blue Badge
Parking Rules When Using a Blue Badge
Places Where You Need to Check Before Parking
Places Where You Cannot Park
What if Your Situation Changes?
Benefits of a Blue Badge
Challenges with the Blue Badge
Recent Blue Badge Developments
Other Disability Benefits To Consider
Conclusion
About the Author
Frequently Asked Questions

The Purpose of the Blue Badge Scheme

The Blue Badge scheme was introduced in 1971 to improve the mobility of disabled people in the UK by allowing them to park closer to their destinations. This can be a lifeline for people who face barriers to transportation, enabling them to maintain independence, access essential services, and participate in social activities.

The Blue Badge is recognised across the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and even extends to certain countries in the European Union, ensuring that Blue Badge holders can benefit from improved access wherever they travel.

The Blue Badge is for your use and benefit only. It must only be displayed if you are travelling in a vehicle as a driver or passenger, or if someone is collecting you or dropping you off and needs to park at the place where you are being collected or dropped.

Did you know you can use a Blue Badge in any vehicle, so if a friend is taking you out they can park in a disabled space as long as you are getting out of the car.
Georgina’s Disabled Tips

Understanding Blue Badge Eligibility

Some disabled people will automatically be eligible for a Blue Badge and will not need to provide further evidence, if you don’t meet the criteria for automatic eligibility, you may still be able to receive a Blue Badge based on other factors.

Who is Automatically Eligible for a Blue Badge?

Disabled people who meet the following criteria will be automatically eligible for a Blue Badge as long as they are over the age of 3. Please note you will need to provide your documentation with your disability award information as part of the application process.

Higher Rate of the Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA): This is often awarded to individuals with severe mobility impairments.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP): A score of 8 or more points under the “moving around” activity or you receive the mobility component of PIP and have obtained 10 points under the ‘planning and following journeys’ activity, on the grounds that you are unable to undertake any journey because it would cause you overwhelming psychological distress.
War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement: Awarded to veterans with mobility-related issues.
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme: For disabled individuals who have a permanent and substantial disability due to injuries that causes inability to walk or very considerable difficulty in walking sustained during service and have received a lump sum benefit within tariff levels 1 to 8.
Registered Blind: Individuals certified as severely sight impaired will automatically qualify.

Who Else Can Apply for a Blue Badge?

If you don’t meet the automatic criteria you may still qualify for a Blue Badge, this will be dependent on your local council and is not guaranteed. If you have a permanent and substantial disability that significantly affects you ability to walk or you struggle with extreme anxiety, you may be able to get a Blue Badge.

Each council is different, and you will be assessed on an individual basis. You may qualify for a Blue Badge based on the following examples:

if you cannot walk at all
if you cannot walk without help from someone else or without using mobility aids
if you find walking very difficult due to pain, breathlessness or the time it takes you to move
if walking is dangerous to your health and safety
if you find it difficult or impossible to control your actions and lack awareness of the impact you could have on others
if you regularly have intense and overwhelming responses to situations causing temporary loss of behavioural control
if you frequently become extremely anxious or fearful of public/open spaces
if you have a child under the age of 3 with a medical condition that means the child always needs to be accompanied by bulky medical equipment
if you have a child under the age of 3 with a medical condition that means the child must always be kept near a vehicle in case they need emergency medical treatment

As mentioned, local councils assess these applications on a case-by-case basis, often requiring medical evidence and, in some cases, an independent mobility assessment. To find your local council, you can search on this website with your postcode.

An accessible vehicle is parked with the boot open and a ramp for a wheelchair user to enter the car

The Blue Badge Application Process

The council will need to assess your application before making a decision and there are several steps that you will need to go through when applying for a Blue Badge, this may be slightly different depending on where you live and how your local council manages the process.

The application is more complicated if you’re not automatically eligible, as you will need to make a case as to why you believe you should have a Blue Badge, this means providing as much evidence as you can. You may need some help to guide you through the process, if so, please contact your nearest Citizens Advice who will be able to assist you.

This is a quick overview of what is required, we will then go into each section in more detail and provide you with further information that may be beneficial to you:

Gather Your Supporting Documents: You will need to provide proof of your identity, address, and disability. Documents may include medical reports, benefit letters, and/or mobility assessments.
Complete the Application Form: The form requires personal details, information about the your disability, and how it impacts your mobility. You can apply for your Blue Badge online or if you prefer to complete a paper form, you will need to contact your local council to see if they have that option available.
Submit the Application: Once completed, the form and supporting documents are submitted to the local council.
Pay the Fee: Most councils charge a small fee for processing the application. A Blue Badge costs up to £10 in England and £20 in Scotland. A Blue Badge is free for disabled people living in Wales.
Undergo an Assessment (if needed): For discretionary applications, councils may require a mobility assessment conducted by an occupational therapist or healthcare professional.
Receive the Badge: If approved, the Blue Badge is typically valid for three years and can be renewed upon expiry.

Personal Information Required for a Blue Badge Application

If you are a disabled person in the UK looking to apply for a Blue Badge, you will need to provide the following on your application:

Your contact details including a telephone number, email address and postal address
A recent digital photo of your head and shoulders (ensure your photo quality is good)
Your National Insurance Number (if you have one)
Proof of your identity, this may include a copy of your:
- passport
- birth or adoption certificate
- driving licence
- marriage or civil partnership certificate
- divorce or dissolution certificate
Proof of your address, this may include a copy of a:
- recent council tax bill
- recent letter from the government like the DWP (Department of Work and Pensions)
- recent letter from a school (if the applicant is under 16)
- driving licence

You will then need to provide evidence to demonstrate that you meet the automatic criteria. If you don’t meet the automatic criteria you will be asked further questions and may need to provide extra evidence to help with your application.

What Evidence is Required for a Blue Badge Application?

The evidence you need to provide for your Blue Badge application will depend on whether you meet the automatic criteria or not. Below is the information you will need to provide to your local council when applying for a Blue Badge in the UK.

If you are unable to upload your documents at the time of your application, you will need to still send them to your local council. Find out how to contact your local council.

Evidence Required for Disabled Individuals who are Automatically Eligible

If you meet the criteria for automatic eligibility for a Blue Badge you will still need to provide proof of your disability benefit award details, below is the detail required.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
You will need to know the scores from your mobility assessment along with your award end date (if applicable). You will also be asked to provide proof of your PIP award including the following pages from your most recent DWP award letter:

your entitlement to PIP (front page)
your PIP assessment scores (second to last page)
your PIP mobility scores (last page)

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
You will need to know which rate of the mobility component you receive along with your award end date (if applicable). You will also be asked to provide proof of your DLA award including the following pages from your most recent DWP award letter:

your mobility rating
your certificate of entitlement to DLA
the date of the letter

Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
You will be asked to provide proof of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme benefit. This will be the most recent letter you received from the Ministry of Defence, which clearly shows:

you were injured in service on or after 6 April 2005
you have been awarded a benefit by the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, with a lump sum payment within Tariffs 1 to 8
you are certified as having a permanent, substantial disability which causes an inability to walk or very considerable difficulty in walking

War Pensioners’ Mobility Scheme
You will be asked to provide proof of your War Pensioners’ Mobility Scheme benefit. This will be the most recent letter from the Ministry of Defence, which clearly shows:

you was injured in service before 6 April 2005
you are in receipt of the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement

A male female couple are getting into a car, the woman is a wheelchair user and is wearing a denim jacket and has long dark hair, the man is standing and has short dark hair and beard, they look happy

Evidence Required for Disabled People who are not Automatically Eligible

If you are applying for a Blue Badge and you do not meet the automatic criteria your application will need to be assessed by your local council. To help the council assess your application, you will be asked to provide additional information depending on the answers you give during the eligibility part of the application form.

If you cannot walk or find walking difficult or you have a non-visible (hidden) condition, you will be asked to provide additional details of:

any relevant medication that you are taking
any relevant treatments that you are receiving or are due to receive
details of any healthcare or associated professionals that have been involved with the treatment of your condition

You will then be asked if you want to upload supporting documents, these could be copies of your prescriptions, copies of any diagnosis letters or other letters from your medical team that relate to your condition. If you are unable to upload your documents at the time of your application, you will need to still send them to your local council. Find out how to contact your local council.

For those individuals who cannot walk or find walking difficult, you will also be asked questions around how your condition affects your ability to walk.

For those individuals who have a non-visible (hidden) condition, you will also be asked questions around how journeys between your vehicle and your destination are impacted by your condition.

What Happens After You Have Applied for a Blue Badge

Please note that it may take a long time for your application to be processed, especially if you are not automatically eligible. We recommend contacting your council if you haven’t heard back from them within 12 weeks.

Some individuals may be asked to do a mobility assessment. A health professional will look at your ability to carry out a range of different mobility activities. They will then inform your council whether they think your health condition or disability limits your ability to move around enough for you to require a blue badge. You also might be asked to send in additional information or be asked to have a conversation with a member of the council.

You will receive an email or a letter letting you know if your application was approved. If you were refused a Blue Badge, you can ask your council to reconsider their decision. The decision letter you receive will tell you how to ask for a review and what the time limit is.

How to Appeal a Blue Badge Decision

If your application for a Blue Badge is declined, it can be disheartening, but there are steps you can take to appeal the decision or strengthen a new application. You can ask your council to reconsider their decision. The decision letter from the council will tell you how to ask for a review and what the time limit is.

It is worth noting that all councils have slightly different review processes, some will include a form with your letter to be completed and returned, and others will ask you to write your own letter. Make sure you follow the instructions they provide. Citizens Advice has advice on how to write your review request letter for those who need support.

If a local authority decides that you do not qualify for a Blue Badge, you can ask for another review of the decision within 28 days of receiving it.

Understand the Reason for Rejection

Request a Detailed Explanation: Contact your local council to ask for the specific reasons why your application was denied. Understanding the decision will help you address any gaps or weaknesses in your application.
Review the Eligibility Criteria: Ensure that your condition aligns with the criteria, particularly if you are applying under discretionary grounds.

Appeal the Decision

Submit an Appeal: Many councils allow you to appeal the decision if you believe it was made in error. Write a formal letter or complete the required appeal form, providing additional information or clarifications.
Provide Additional Evidence: Include any new medical reports, letters from healthcare providers, or assessments that support your case. Highlight how your condition affects your mobility and daily life.
Seek Support: Advocacy groups, such as Disability Rights UK and Citizens Advice can provide guidance and support during the appeals process.

Reapply with More Evidence

Strengthen Your Application: Gather detailed medical evidence, such as letters from specialists or physiotherapists, and include personal statements explaining how your condition impacts your mobility.
Request a Mobility Assessment: Some councils may reconsider your application if you agree to undergo a mobility assessment conducted by an independent professional.

Consider Other Support Options

Explore Alternative Benefits: If you are not eligible for a Blue Badge, you may still qualify for other mobility-related benefits, such as a Disabled Person’s Bus Pass or Disabled Railcard.
Get Support and Advice: Disability organisations, charities and support groups can provide advice on navigating the system and exploring alternative avenues for assistance.

Stay Informed

Monitor Changes to the Scheme: Eligibility criteria and application processes may change over time. Keep up to date with developments to ensure your application reflects current requirements.

Being turned down for a Blue Badge can feel like a setback, but with persistence and the right support, you may still achieve a positive outcome. The appeals process and reapplication provide opportunities to ensure that your needs are properly considered.

How to Reapply for a Blue Badge

Your Blue Badge will last for three years. The council will normally contact you to let you know your Blue Badge will be expiring soon and that you need to reapply. We recommend that you reapply for your new Blue Badge 6-8 weeks before it runs out in case there are any delays.

You can reapply for your Blue Badge on the government website.

Your Responsibilities as a Blue Badge Holder

You must use the Blue Badge properly otherwise it may be taken away from you. The Blue Badge is for your use only, you must never allow friends or family to use your Blue Badge. It is a criminal offence for you or anyone else to misuse the Blue Badge. Doing so could lead to a £1,000 fine and confiscation of the Blue Badge.

If you are using the Blue Badge as a passenger, it is your responsibility to make sure that the driver is aware of all the rules. Make sure you have read the guidance rules for using a Blue Badge.

How to Display Your Blue Badge

You must display your Blue Badge in a place where it can be clearly read from outside the vehicle. The front of the Blue Badge should face upwards, showing the hologram, the side with your photograph should not be visible.

You must also ensure that the details on the front of the Blue Badge remain legible. If they become unreadable through fading or wear and tear, you must return the Blue Badge to your local council so they can issue you with a new one. Displaying a badge that is illegible may result in a parking fine.

Make sure you are not displaying a Blue Badge that has expired as it will not be valid which may result in your receiving a parking ticket and a fine.

Incorrect display of the Blue Badge may result in a parking fine or a penalty charge notice.

When to Use the Parking Clock with your Blue Badge

When you receive your Blue Badge you will also be provided with a Parking Clock, this is used in certain situations for example, when you park on yellow lines or in other places where there is a time restriction. You will need to display your time of arrival on the Parking Clock The clock should be sent to you together with the Blue Badge and a guidance booklet. If you didn’t receive one you can contact your council and ask them to send you one.

If you need to display your Parking Clock, make sure you place it on your vehicle’s dashboard or facia panel, so that the time can be seen clearly through the front windscreen next to your Blue Badge. The clock should be set to show the quarter hour period during which you arrived.

Parking Rules When Using a Blue Badge

The Blue Badge is not a licence to park anywhere, you must not park in places where it could endanger, inconvenience or obstruct pedestrians or other road users. When you receive your Blue Badge you will also receive a guidance booklet with it – this will give you details on where you can park as well as where you can’t park. Make sure you read it thoroughly to avoid fines or confiscation of your Blue Badge.

The way a Blue Badge can be used differs depending on where you live:

These are the parking concessions available to you as a Blue Badge holder in England:

Yellow Lines

As a Blue Badge holder, you may park on single or double yellow lines for up to 3 hours, but in general not where there are restrictions on loading or unloading – as indicated by yellow kerb dashes and / or signs on plates or on yellow lines in off-street car parks. You may wish to check whether a particular local council has chosen to exempt Blue Badge holders from this restriction.

You must display your Blue Badge and the Parking Clock showing the quarter hour period during which you arrived. You must wait for at least one hour after a previous period of parking before you can park the same vehicle in the same road or part of a road on the same day.

‘On-Street’ Parking Meters and Pay-and-Display Machines

Typically Blue Badge holders may park for free and for as long as they need to but this may depend on your local council so always check first. You must display the Blue Badge.

‘On-Street’ Disabled Parking Bays – Signs have a Blue Wheelchair Symbol

You may park for free. Unless signs say otherwise, you may also park without time limit. You must display the Blue Badge (and the Parking Clock if the bay is time limited).

Did you know you can park in a regular parking space if there are no disabled bays free. Make sure you display your Blue Badge correctly and if it is a car park where disabled people can park for free then you won’t need to pay either.
Georgina’s Disability Tips

Places Where You Need to Check Before Parking

There are a number of restrictions and local parking schemes which you need to be aware of. Here is a list of those places and the parking restrictions in force. If in doubt, ask the relevant council.

Off-Street Car Parks

Such as supermarket, hospital or local council car parks. Off-street car park operators should provide parking spaces for disabled people. However, it is up to the car park owner to decide whether badge holders can park free of charge. Do not assume you can always park for free. In some places, the local council will offer free parking for disabled people across all the council run car parks.

London

For the London boroughs of Kensington & Chelsea, the City of Westminster, the City of London and part of the London Borough of Camden see Parking in Central London below for further details.

Town Centres where Local Schemes are in Operation

Check local signs for information.

On-Street Parking Areas

Where all motorists can park for free but only for a limited time. Blue Badge holders may park for free and generally without time limit. However, if signs show there is also a time limit for Blue Badge holders, you must comply with the time limit shown and display your parking clock.

Private Roads

Do not park unless you have permission from the owner.

Red Routes

Red routes are major roads in Greater London which are marked with a single or double red line. Transport for London has general information on concessions for Blue Badge holders on roads that have priority (red) route controls. You can obtain this information by ringing them on 0845 305 1234 or by visiting their website. There are a small number of red routes outside of London. Contact the relevant local council for advice on parking restrictions on these routes.

Places Where You Cannot Park

There are some places where you absolutely cannot park even if you have a Blue Badge, these include:

Places where a ban on loading or unloading is in force, as indicated above by kerb markings
Parking places reserved for specific users such as resident’s bays or loading bays
Pedestrian crossings (zebra, pelican, toucan and puffin crossings), including areas marked by zig-zag lines
Clearways (no stopping)
A bus stop clearway during its hours of operation
An urban clearway within its hours of operation. You may pick up or drop off passengers. All parking is forbidden
School ‘keep clear’ markings during the hours shown on a yellow no-stopping plate
Bus, tram or cycle lanes or cycle tracks
Where there are double white lines in the centre of the road, even if one of the lines is broken
Where temporary parking restrictions are in force

Two disabled men are outside in a park, one man is sat on a low wall, he is white, has long dark hair and a beard and has a lower limb difference and a prosthetic leg. He is fist bumping with another man who is black with a grey t-shirt and is a wheelchair user, both look happy

What if Your Situation Changes?

You should always tell your local council if something changes, such as:

your condition changes, so you don’t need the badge
the badge is lost, stolen or damaged
you change address
your name changes (for example by marriage, civil partnership, deed poll)
the holder of the badge dies

You will also be able to update your details on GOV.UK.

Benefits of the Blue Badge

The Blue Badge provides disabled people with range of benefits, significantly improving the quality of life for you and your family. The key benefits of having a Blue Badge include:

Parking Privileges

Free Parking: Blue Badge holders can park free of charge in many pay-and-display spaces and on-street parking areas.
Extended Time Limits: In areas with time-restricted parking, Blue Badge holders often enjoy longer durations or no time limit.
Access to Restricted Areas: The Blue Badge allows parking in spaces that are otherwise off-limits to the public, such as pedestrian zones.

Proximity to Destinations

As a Blue Badge holder you can park closer to essential destinations such as shops, hospitals, and workplaces, minimising the physical strain of walking long distances.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety

Having the ability to park in convenient locations reduces stress, particularly in busy areas where parking is limited.

Social Inclusion

By easing access to social and recreational activities, the Blue Badge helps combat isolation and promotes community engagement. For many disabled individuals, the Blue Badge represents a vital tool for maintaining independence and participating fully in society. It empowers them to pursue education, employment, and leisure activities without the constant worry of parking accessibility.

Discounts

Not only can you use your Blue Badge as evidence of your disability to join Purpl and access disabled discounts you can also use it to get other concessions for example discounts on ferry crossings and free carer places when out and about. It is always worth asking if they do a discount if you have a Blue Badge.

Challenges with the Blue Badge

Despite its many benefits, the Blue Badge scheme is not without its challenges, here are some of the most common problems that disabled people in the UK encounter:

Inconsistent Eligibility Assessments
The discretionary application process can lead to inconsistencies, with some councils approving applications more readily than others. This has raised concerns about fairness and the need for standardised guidelines.

Limited Availability of Accessible Parking
Despite having a Blue Badge, many disabled people struggle to find available parking spaces, particularly in urban areas.

Public Perception
There are misconceptions about the scheme, with some members of the public questioning the validity of certain badge holders’ disabilities. Invisible disabilities, such as chronic pain or mental health conditions, are particularly prone to skepticism, and this can cause a lot of anxiety with the use of the Blue Badge.

Recent Blue Badge Developments

The Blue Badge scheme has evolved over the years to address changing societal needs and to enhance inclusivity. The biggest developments include:

Inclusion of Invisible Disabilities
In 2019, the scheme was expanded to include individuals with non-visible disabilities such as autism, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain conditions. This was a landmark change that recognised the diverse ways in which disabilities can impact mobility.

Digital Modernisation
Many councils now offer online application and renewal processes, making it easier for individuals to access the scheme. Efforts are also underway to improve the digital verification of Blue Badges to reduce fraud.

Public Awareness Campaigns
Campaigns have been launched to educate the public about the Blue Badge scheme, aiming to reduce stigma and improve understanding of its purpose.

Other Disability Benefits To Consider

If you’re disabled you may be exempt from vehicle tax, or qualify for a reduction. We have a Purpl guide where you can find out if you qualify for vehicle tax exemption. You could also get Toll concessions on rivers, bridges and tunnels .

And of course, if you have a Blue Badge, you can join Purpl and enjoy massive savings, disabled discounts, offers and deals from all your favourite brands!

Conclusion

The Blue Badge scheme is a vital lifeline for people in the UK, offering improved access, independence, and quality of life. As society continues to prioritise inclusivity and accessibility, the Blue Badge scheme serves as a reminder of the importance of removing barriers and empowering all individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

For those who rely on it, the Blue Badge is more than just a parking permit, it’s a symbol of equality and opportunity.

About the Author

Georgina is the founder of Purpl Disabled Discounts, she understands the financial challenges that come with living with a disability as she has MS and ADHD. She is on a mission to help the disabled community save money through discounts on everyday products and services, as well as creating a place to support every individual living with a disability in the UK. You can read her story about why she launched Purpl and her ultimate goal of launching a foundation to give grants to disabled people in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Blue Badge if I’m not a wheelchair user?

Yes, possibly. In 2019, the scheme was expanded to include people with non-visible disabilities such as autism, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain conditions. Local councils assess these applications on a case-by-case basis, often requiring detailed medical evidence and, in some cases, an independent mobility assessment.

Who can use my Blue Badge?

The badge is for your use and benefit only. It must only be displayed if you are travelling in the vehicle as a driver or passenger, or if someone is collecting you or dropping you off and needs to park at the place where you are being collected or dropped.

Can I use my Blue Badge abroad?

You can use your UK Blue Badge when travelling in some EU countries, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Check which countries accept a UK Blue Badge. But it is advised to check as parking concessions vary in each country.

There are no current arrangements for you to use the badge outside the European Union, in countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand, although they may be prepared to recognise the Blue Badge. It is advised that you to check what concessions are available before travelling to non-EU countries.

Can I use my Blue Badge to park for free at hospitals?

If you are a Blue Badge holder, you should receive free parking during your visit to an NHS hospital. This applies whether you are the patient, a visitor, or taking the patient into hospital and is part of a government objective to provide free parking for those with the greatest need. Rules for using your Blue Badge do vary from one hospital trust to another, so do check with your hospital.

Can I use my expired Blue Badge whilst waiting for my new one?

No, we highly recommend you do not use an expired Blue Badge as it will not be valid. You may incur a parking fee and a fine as well as potentially losing your right to have one.