Transport & travel
Blue Badge — disabled parking permit
The Blue Badge lets people with a disability or hidden condition park closer to where they need to be. It costs up to £10 in England, lasts up to three years, and you apply on GOV.UK — your borough makes the decision.
Ref · GOV-BLUE · Updated 2026-07-19
A Blue Badge is a national parking permit for people with a disability or a long-term health condition that affects their journeys. It lets the holder park in places that are closer, more convenient and often free, so that getting to shops, work, appointments and services is easier. The scheme runs across the whole of England, but the badge itself is issued by your local council after you apply.
The badge belongs to the person, not to a car. It can be used in any vehicle the holder is travelling in, whether as the driver or as a passenger, but it must never be used when the holder is not in the vehicle. Misuse — such as a friend or relative using it to park when the badge holder is not present — is against the law and can lead to the badge being withdrawn.
Who is eligible
Some people get a Blue Badge automatically. Others qualify after their council assesses how their condition affects them. You may be eligible if you:
- Are registered blind (severely sight impaired)
- Receive certain disability benefits at set rates, such as the higher-rate mobility component of some benefits
- Cannot walk far, or find walking very difficult or painful
- Have a hidden disability, such as a condition affecting mental health, that makes journeys very hard or unsafe
- Drive a vehicle that has been adapted, or regularly drive a disabled child who needs bulky medical equipment
How to apply, step by step
- Start the application on the GOV.UK Blue Badge service.
- Enter your details and describe how your condition affects your journeys.
- Upload the documents and any medical evidence your council asks for.
- Submit — your borough reviews it, may arrange an assessment, and decides.
What you need
- Proof of identity, such as a passport or driving licence
- Proof of address, such as a recent Council Tax or utility bill
- A recent digital photo of your head and shoulders
- Your National Insurance number (if you have one)
- Details of any relevant benefits, and supporting medical evidence if requested
Cost and how long it lasts
| Detail | In England |
|---|---|
| Cost of the badge | Up to £10 · set by your council |
| When you pay | Only if your application is approved |
| How long it lasts | Up to 3 years |
| Renewal | Reapply before it expires — not automatic |
Using your badge
With a Blue Badge you can usually park in designated disabled bays, and in many areas on single or double yellow lines for a limited period where it is safe to do so and no loading ban applies. You display the badge and, where required, the accompanying clock showing your arrival time. Central London has extra rules: several boroughs and the City of London operate their own arrangements, and the Congestion Charge is not automatically waived, so always check local signs and the relevant council or TfL guidance before you park.
Central London is different
Some inner boroughs and the City of London have their own Blue Badge rules and do not fully recognise the standard concessions. Check the local council's guidance for the area you are visiting.
Reapply before it expires
A Blue Badge does not renew itself. Reapply — usually up to 12 weeks before the end date — so there is no gap. Your council reassesses your eligibility each time.
Note: This portal links to the official services. government.london does not issue Blue Badges or take payments — GOV.UK and your borough do.
Common questions
Who is eligible for a Blue Badge?
Some people qualify automatically, for example if they are registered blind or receive certain disability benefits at set rates. Others qualify after an assessment if they cannot walk far, have a hidden disability that affects journeys, or drive an adapted vehicle. Your council decides using the GOV.UK criteria.
How much does a Blue Badge cost?
A Blue Badge costs up to £10 in England. Your council sets the exact fee up to that limit, and you only pay if your application is approved. The badge is normally valid for up to three years, after which you reapply.
How do I apply for a Blue Badge?
Apply on GOV.UK. Your application is then processed by your local council, which makes the decision and may ask for extra evidence or an assessment. Start at gov.uk/apply-blue-badge and follow it through to your borough.
Where can I park with a Blue Badge?
A Blue Badge lets you park in disabled bays and, in many areas, on single or double yellow lines for a limited time where it is safe. Rules differ in parts of central London, so always check local signs. The badge belongs to the person, not the vehicle, and must be used only when they are travelling.
How do I renew my Blue Badge?
A Blue Badge does not renew automatically. You must reapply before it expires, usually up to 12 weeks before the end date, using the same GOV.UK service. Your council reassesses your eligibility each time you reapply.
This is an information page. Applications, payments and renewals all happen on the official GOV.UK Blue Badge service and your borough.
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