Benefits Robin

Blue Badge

A Blue Badge allows you to park in designated disabled parking bays and closer to your destination. In England, the badge also lets you park for free at on-street parking meters and pay-and-display areas, and for up to 3 hours on single or double yellow lines (where safe to do so). Over 2.4 million people in England hold a Blue Badge.

You may qualify automatically if you receive the higher rate mobility component of DLA, the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP, War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement, or certain Armed Forces compensation payments. People who score 8 or more points on the PIP "moving around" activity are also eligible automatically. If you are registered blind, you automatically qualify.

Since 2019, the Blue Badge scheme has been extended to cover people with hidden disabilities — including conditions such as severe anxiety, autism spectrum conditions, cognitive impairments such as dementia, and other conditions that make journeys difficult or dangerous even though you may be physically able to walk. If you do not qualify automatically, your local council may invite you to a short mobility assessment.

The badge costs up to £10 (free in some council areas and always free in Scotland and Wales) and lasts for 3 years. Applications are handled by your local council — you can start the process online at GOV.UK, which redirects you to your council's application page. Processing times vary but are typically up to 12 weeks. You can apply for a renewal before your current badge expires.

Means-tested

No

Age group

Any age

Processing time

Up to 12 weeks

Key Requirements

  • 1Significant difficulty walking, or
  • 2Receiving PIP mobility component (8+ points)

How to Apply

  1. 1Apply online through GOV.UK, which will direct you to your local council's application
  2. 2Provide evidence of your disability or mobility condition
  3. 3Your council may arrange a mobility assessment if eligibility is not automatic
  4. 4If approved, collect your badge or receive it by post

What you may need

  • Proof of identity (passport, driving licence)
  • Proof of address
  • A recent passport-style photograph
  • PIP or DLA award letter (if you receive the mobility component)
  • Medical evidence if you do not automatically qualify (e.g., GP letter, consultant reports)

Helpful tips

  • If you receive the higher rate mobility component of DLA or 8+ points for PIP "moving around", you are likely to qualify automatically
  • Hidden disabilities (such as severe anxiety or autism) can also qualify — you do not need to use a wheelchair
  • The badge costs up to £10 and lasts 3 years — your council sets the fee

Official page

GOV.UK →

Evidence You May Need

Essential

Proof of identity

Passport or driving licence

Essential

Proof of address

Utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill

Essential

Passport-style photograph

A recent photo meeting passport photo requirements

Recommended

PIP or DLA award letter

If you receive the mobility component, this may qualify you automatically

Recommended

Medical evidence

GP letter, consultant reports, or other medical documents describing your mobility difficulties

Helpful

GP support letter

A letter from your GP outlining how your condition affects your mobility

Related Benefits

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

For working-age adults whose health affects daily living or mobility.

Up to £184.30/wk

Attendance Allowance

For people over State Pension age who need help with personal care.

Up to £110.40/wk

Council Tax Reduction

Reduction on Council Tax for people on low income or receiving certain benefits.

Up to 100% discount

Frequently Asked Questions

Who may be eligible for a Blue Badge?
People who receive PIP enhanced mobility (or 8+ points on "moving around"), higher rate DLA mobility, or are registered blind qualify automatically. Others with significant mobility difficulties — including hidden disabilities such as severe anxiety, autism, dementia, or conditions causing severe distress in public places — can apply and may need a council assessment.
How much does a Blue Badge cost?
A Blue Badge costs up to £10 in England and lasts for 3 years. Your local council sets the exact fee — some councils charge less or waive the fee entirely. In Scotland and Wales, Blue Badges are free. You can apply for a renewal before your current badge expires.
Can I get a Blue Badge for a hidden disability?
Yes. Since 2019, Blue Badges have been available for hidden disabilities. This includes conditions such as severe anxiety, autism spectrum conditions, learning disabilities, dementia, and other cognitive impairments that make journeys difficult, overwhelming, or dangerous — even if you are physically able to walk.
Where can I park with a Blue Badge?
In England, a Blue Badge lets you park in designated disabled bays (in car parks and on-street), park for free at on-street parking meters and pay-and-display areas, and park for up to 3 hours on single or double yellow lines where safe. Rules vary slightly in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Car park rules vary by operator.
How do I apply for a Blue Badge?
Start your application online at GOV.UK, which will redirect you to your local council's application page. You will need proof of identity, proof of address, a recent passport-style photograph, and evidence of your disability (PIP/DLA award letter or medical evidence). If you do not qualify automatically, your council may arrange a short mobility assessment. Processing takes up to 12 weeks.

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Important: Benefits Robin is not affiliated with the DWP or UK Government. We provide information and assistance, not legal or financial advice. These are estimates based on your answers. Final decisions are made by the DWP.