Apply for a new Blue Badge
If you struggle to get around and use a car you could get a Blue Badge. A Blue Badge lets you park closer to where you're going.
You need to apply online using the GOV.UK service. It will also tell you if you're likely to be eligible before you go through the application.
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.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) and applying for a Blue Badge
Your local council processes Blue Badge applications.
You can still apply for a Blue Badge but coronavirus is affecting council services.
This could mean your local council may not be able to process applications:
- as quickly as they usually would
- at all right now
- which need face to face appointments or assessments
If you apply for a Blue Badge your local council should reply to tell you about the situation in your area. They make take longer than usual to send you a reply.
If you need help applying
Contact your local council if you need help applying for a Blue Badge.
Some councils have paper application forms or can help you with your application.
You can apply for a Blue Badge yourself, for someone else, or for an organisation (such as a care home).
Blue Badge charge
The charge for a Blue Badge can be up to £20.
Your local council decides on the charge for a Blue Badge and you pay the money to them.
After you apply
Your local council processes your application. They'll also let you know if you need to go to a mobility assessment.
A mobility assessment is a meeting with a healthcare professional who will check if you're:
- eligible for a Blue Badge
- getting all the support you need to get around
When you'll hear about your application
Your local council will give you a decision in around 12 weeks.
If your application is not successful, you can ask for a review. You can find more information about how to do this in the letter from your council.
A Blue Badge usually lasts for 3 years. You need to reapply for it every 3 years.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland
If you do not live in Scotland, you should apply for a Blue Badge with: