How to Apply for a Blue Badge Parking Permit

First: Check If You're Eligible

Before you apply, you need to check if you meet the eligibility criteria. The rules have changed and more people qualify than you might think.

Read our complete Blue Badge eligibility guide to see if you qualify.

You may also be eligible if you're applying on behalf of someone with hidden disabilities, mental health conditions, or conditions like dementia. Learn more about applying for someone with dementia or other conditions.

How to Apply: Step by Step

• 1
  Check you are eligible - use our eligibility guide or the GOV.UK eligibility checker before you start
• 2
  Gather your documents - photo, proof of identity, proof of address, benefit letters and any medical evidence (see the full list below)
• 3
  Apply online at GOV.UK - the application is handled by your local council through the GOV.UK portal. A paper form is also available if preferred
• 4
  Attend an assessment if asked - not everyone needs one, but your council may request a walking assessment
• 5
  Wait for a decision - your council has up to 12 weeks to process your application
• 6
  Receive and protect your badge - valid for up to three years. Set a reminder to renew six weeks before it expires

Applying for Yourself

You can now apply for a Blue Badge online. You can also check if you're eligible on the GOV.UK website.

There is also a paper application form if you prefer not to apply online. The application form is updated regularly, so check with your local council for the most up-to-date version.

To apply or find out more about Blue Badges, visit: GOV.UK Disability and Health Conditions

Applying for Someone Else

You can apply for a Blue Badge on behalf of another person if you are:

• A parent or guardian applying for a child
• A carer or family member applying for someone who cannot apply themselves
• An adult child applying on behalf of a parent or older relative
• An appointed representative with power of attorney or guardianship

Who Can Apply On Someone's Behalf?

The person who applies (applicant) must be either:

• The person who will use the badge (if they have the mental capacity to make the application)
• An authorised representative (parent, guardian, carer, or person with power of attorney)

What You'll Need When Applying for Someone Else

• A recent digital photo of the person who will use the badge (showing head and shoulders)
• Their proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
• Their proof of address (less than 12 months old)
• Proof of any benefits they receive
• Medical evidence of their disability or health condition
• Evidence of your relationship and authority to apply (e.g. birth certificate, guardianship order, power of attorney)

Special Circumstances

If you're applying for someone with dementia, severe mobility issues, or who cannot attend a walking assessment, let your council know. They may be able to arrange an assessment at their home or without a walking test.

Read our detailed guide on applying for a Blue Badge when someone has dementia - this covers special considerations and how to support a family member through the process.

What You'll Need (Applying for Yourself)

Documents Required:

• A recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders
• Proof of identity (such as a passport or driving licence)
• Proof of address (less than 12 months old)
• Proof of benefits (if you get any)

Information You'll Need to Know:

• Your National Insurance number (if you have one)
• The details of your current Blue Badge (if you're reapplying)

Cost and Timescale

How Much Does It Cost?

How Long Will It Take?

Your application will be sent to your council and they'll make a decision within 12 weeks.

All Blue Badge applications (new and renewals) are assessed on an individual basis against Department for Transport (DfT) guidelines. You may be asked to attend a walking assessment when you apply. Timescales can be dependent on the availability of assessment centres.

If your current badge has a serial number that ends in 'R', this indicates that the badge is reviewable and that eligibility may need to be reassessed with a walking assessment. If this is the case, your application for renewal should be made a minimum of six weeks prior to the expiry date.

It is up to you to remember to renew in plenty of time as some local authorities deal with thousands of applications every month.

If Your Application Is Refused

Your council should tell you why you're not eligible for a Blue Badge.

You can ask them to reconsider your case if you do not think all the important information you provided was taken into account.

You can also reapply if your mobility problems become more serious.

Citizens Advice and Scope can both provide free advice if you want to challenge a refusal.

Once You Have Your Blue Badge

Once your Blue Badge arrives, you'll want to protect it. Your badge is valuable - both as a practical tool for your independence and as a representation of your disability rights.

Where Can You Park?

Learn the rules about where you can and cannot park with a Blue Badge, including restrictions in certain areas and how penalties work.

Access to Additional Support

Did you know Blue Badge holders also have access to RADAR keys for disabled toilets across the UK? Find out more about RADAR keys and how they work.

Common Questions About Blue Badge Applications