The blue badge scheme only applies if you have a permanent disability and/or severe mobility problems. With effect from 30th August 2019 the Department for Transport has extended the eligibility for people to apply for a Blue Badge. People who suffer from some hidden disabilities including anxiety disorders, brain injury and many other conditions can now apply for a Blue Badge. "It will offer a lifeline to people who often find road travel difficult by providing better access to work and other amenities, while also helping combat loneliness by helping them stay connected to family and friends."
A blue badge will cost £10.00.
You will be eligible if:
- You are registered blind
- You receive the higher rate of the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- You score eight points or more in the “Moving around” activity of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- You use a vehicle supplied for disabled people by a Government health department
- You receive a War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement
- You have a severe permanent and substantial disability which means you are unable to walk or have considerable difficulty walking. In this case we may ask you more questions to help us determine whether you are eligible for a badge
- You have a severe disability in both arms, regularly drive a vehicle but cannot turn the steering wheel by hand even if that wheel is fitted with a turning knob
You may be eligible if:
- You have a hidden disability - such as Autism, Dementia, Parkinsons or a mental health condition.
Children under two years of age do not qualify for a badge as they would not normally be expected to be able to walk independently. However, if oxygen is needed this will be looked at favourably.
To apply for or renew your blue badge you will need:
- Your blue badge number (only on renewal).
- One passport sized photo.
- The name and address of your doctor.
- Copies of supporting documentation, eg, war pension mobility supplement letter, letter confirming you are in receipt of DLA.
- Agree to us contacting your GP for supporting information if necessary.
Apply / renew for a blue badge - this link takes you to the GOV.UK website to apply.
Please ensure that you have all the relevant documentation / photographs and are able to pay before you submit the application:
It is possible to save an application and come back to it at a later time.
Please be advised that your application may take between four to six weeks to process, depending on whether further clarification is required.
When renewing your Blue Badge please apply in plenty of time, but please note that we wouldn't usually send out a renewal badge more than a month before the expiry date.
The blue badge should only be displayed in the vehicle the blue badge holder is being transported in.
It is a criminal offence to misuse a blue badge, and could lead to a £1000 fine.