Applying For A Blue Badge

A Blue Badge lets you park in special parking spaces for disabled people. You can also park for free at on-street parking meters and in Pay and Display bays.
  • You get Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and score at least 8 points or more under the ‘moving around’ activity of the mobility component because you can’t walk more than 50 metres OR score 10 points under the 'planning and following a journey' activity (if you score other amounts you may still be able to receive a blue badge, but it is not automatic).
  • You are under 16 and get the higher rate of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
  • You get the War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement or a payment from the Armed Forces and Reserve Forces Compensation Scheme (tariffs 1-8) and have a permanent disability that makes it hard for you to walk.
  • You are registered blind or care for a child over 2 years old who is blind.

You might also be able to get a Blue Badge if:

  • You have difficulty walking or getting to places because of physical disabilities (such as pain or breathlessness) or mental health problems (such as stress or anxiety).
  • You can’t walk without help or mobility aids.
  • You have a life-limiting illness and an SR1 form.
  • You have severe disabilities in both arms that make it hard for you to use parking machines.
  • You care for a child over 2 years old who has trouble walking or getting to places due to physical or mental health problems.
  • You care for a child under 3 years old who needs to stay close to a vehicle for emergency medical treatment.

You will need:

  • ID (like a passport or driver’s licence).
  • Proof of address (such as a council tax bill or letter from DWP).
  • National Insurance number (if you have one).
  • Your contact details (phone number, address).
  • Proof of benefits (like PIP or DLA).
  • Proof of your medication or treatment (prescriptions, diagnosis letters or patient summary).
  • Answers to questions about your condition.
  • You can apply online or by post.
  • A decision is usually made within 12 weeks.
  • You might be asked to have a mobility assessment with a health professional.
  • The council might ask you for more information.
  • If your application is refused, you can ask the council to look at it again. You have 4 weeks to do this.
  • If your application is approved, you may need to pay up to £10 in England or £20 in Scotland for your badge. In Wales, it’s free.
  • A Blue Badge lasts for 3 years. You need to reapply to renew before it runs out.
Age UK
Scope
Citizens Advice

If you are having difficulties, please contact the Friends, Families and Travellers helpline on 01273 234 777. We are open:

  • Monday to Friday
  • From 10.00am to 4.30pm
  • Closed on Bank Holidays

Correct as of September 2024.

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