What is a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge scheme is for people with severe mobility problems. It allows Blue Badge holders to park close to where they need to go. The badge may only be used when the badge holder is driving or is a passenger in the car. It may not be used by their friend, relative etc. unless the badge holder is travelling with them.
Do I qualify for a Blue Badge?
You will qualify if you meet one of the following criteria:
- are receiving Disability Living Allowance (Higher Rate Mobility)
- are receiving a War Pension Mobility Supplement
- are a registered blind person
- use a motor vehicle that is supplied by a government health department
You may qualify if you meet one of the following criteria:
- have severe disability in both upper limbs, drive a motor vehicle regularly but cannot turn the steering wheel by hand even if that wheel is fitted with a turning knob
- have a permanent and substantial disability which causes inability to walk or very considerable difficulty in walking.
In addition, children under the age of 3 may be eligible for a badge if they meet one of the following criteria:
a child who, on account of a condition, must always be accompanied by bulky medical equipment, which cannot be carried around with the child without great difficulty.
a child who, on account of a condition, must always be kept near a motor vehicle so that, if necessary, can be treated for that condition in the vehicle or taken to a place where they can be treated.
Restrictions
The badge can be used throughout the UK and within the European Union and some other European countries. The blue badge scheme does not apply to off street car parks, private roads or most airports.
How to apply for a Blue Badge
You may apply:
- call into a Local Service Centre with your supporting information, a passport quality photograph and the means to pay the £10 fee (credit or debit card preferred)
Supporting information includes:
Proof of address e.g. a current council tax or utility bill, or bank statement
Current photo identification e.g. passport or driving license
Your up to date supporting evidence e.g. letter of confirmation of Disability Living Allowance (Higher Rate Mobility). If you need an up to date copy of this letter telephone 08457 123 456.
What happens next?
Once your application is received we will assess your eligibility and notify you of the outcome. In some cases we may need to carry out a mobility assessment. If so, we will arrange for you to attend an appointment. If your application is successful you will be charged a fee of £10.
Appealing or making a complaint about a blue badge decision
If you would like to appeal or make a complaint about a decision not to award you a blue badge then you have the right to request an appeal within one month of the decision being made. You will need to write to:
Transport and Concessionary Travel Team
112-118 The Grove
Stratford, E15 1NS
If you are unhappy with the way your complaint was dealt with then please write to the Customer Services Manager of the Local Service Centre where your application was dealt with, outlining your reasons for the complaint. The manager will investigate your complaint and respond to you regarding the outcome of the investigation.
If the Blue Badge is not right for you...
The Blue Badge may not be the right answer to your mobility issue. If so, you may wish to look into the following options:
- Door to Door Scheme which comprises
- London Taxicard Scheme - subsidised door-to-door transport for people who have serious mobility impairment and difficulty in using public transport.
- Dial-a-ride - free door to door minibus scheme run by TfL for people with mobility problems
- Freedom Pass - Free use of public transport for people with mobility problems.
Replacing Lost and Stolen Badges
If your Blue Badge is lost or stolen you must obtain a police reference number before you can apply for a replacement badge. To apply for a replacement badge use the same process as if applying for a new badge (see section on How to Apply for a Blue Badge above). You will be asked to insert the police reference number in your application, this will ensure that your old badge is cancelled and help prevent misuse of it. All replacement badges will be charged at £10.
More information
Changes to the Blue Badge Scheme
Parking with a Blue Badge
Misuse of the Blue Badge
Disabled Resident's Parking Permit
Parking Problems
Download the Blue Badge leaflet