Brits applying for a Blue Badge must ensure they have four key items to hand. Without these you will be unable to successfully register for the parking permit.
A Blue Badge is a disabled parking permit that allows individuals with severe mobility problems to park closer to their destination, offering on-street parking concession. In 2024 it was recorded that 2.84 million people had Blue Badges in England.
Blue Badge applications, while generally made online, come with specific recommendations for those with mental health conditions, as highlighted by official advice.
The guidance explicitly states: “If you have a mental condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic, you cannot apply online.
“You should phone your local council’s Blue Badge team for a paper application form.”
Moreover, individuals not automatically entitled to the Blue Badge might have to undergo further evaluation, including a mobility assessment and consultation with a healthcare professional.
It’s important to note that the timeframe for processing Blue Badge applications or renewals is variable, typically taking up to 12 weeks. Local councils handle these applications, set the fees, and provide an estimated timeline.
What do you need to apply?
Applications are submitted online to your local council, and you’ll need a recent digital photo of your head and shoulders – you can take this yourself.
And you need a photo or scan of your:
- Proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address such as a Council Tax bill or government letter – you can also choose to have your local council check the Electoral Register instead
- Proof of benefits – if you get any
You’ll also need to know:
- Your National Insurance number
- The details of your current Blue Badge – if you’re reapplying
Check if you qualify
You’ll automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you:
- Are under 16 and have a letter confirming your eligibility from your visual impairment care team
- Are 16 or over and registered or certified as severely sight impaired
- Get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA
- Get PIP and scored 8 points or more in the ‘moving around’ area of your assessment
- Get PIP and scored 12 points in the ‘planning and following a journey’ area of your assessment
- Get PIP and used to get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA on an indefinite or lifetime basis
- Get PIP, used to get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA, and your PIP decision is being appealed
- Get ADP and have been awarded either 8 points or more in the moving around activity or 12 points in the planning and following a journey activity or enhanced rate mobility without reference to points
- Get the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment
- Get War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Got a lump sum payment from tariffs 1 to 8 of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme and have been certified as having a permanent and substantial disability.
If you’re not automatically eligible, you might still be able to get a Blue Badge under certain conditions, if you:
- Have a substantial disability lasting at least 12 months that means you cannot walk at all
- Have a substantial disability lasting at least 12 months that means you’re virtually unable to walk
- regularly drive and cannot use parking meters because of a severe disability in both arms
- Are responsible for a child under 3 years old who needs to be kept close to a vehicle for medical treatment
- Are responsible for a child under 3 years old who uses bulky medical equipment that cannot be carried around
- Have a mental health condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic when making journeys.
Once you’ve applied, your local council will process your application and inform you of their decision.
What to do if your application is rejected
Your local council should explain why you don’t qualify. If you believe they’ve overlooked some crucial information, you can request them to reconsider their decision. If your disability or health condition worsens, you can also reapply.
A Blue Badge costs up to £10 in England and £20 in Scotland. It’s free in Wales. They usually last up to three years.
You must reapply for a Blue Badge before your current one expires. For more information, visit gov.uk/apply-blue-badge.