Cars & Transport guide

Apply for a Blue Badge for disabled parking

Check if you or someone you care for qualifies for a Blue Badge, gather the right evidence, apply through your council and use the badge correctly.

Estimated time: 45–60 minutes to applyUpdated: 1 October 2026

Use this guide if you, a child or an adult you care for has difficulty walking, a hidden disability or a condition that makes journeys hard. You apply to your local council, usually through the GOV.UK service in England, Scotland and Wales, or through nidirect in Northern Ireland. Have proof of identity, proof of address, a recent digital photo, your National Insurance number and any benefit award letters ready.

Step by step

  1. Check whether you may qualify automatically

    Some people get a Blue Badge without further assessment because of certain benefit awards, such as particular levels of the mobility parts of Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance, or for certain war pensions, or for being registered as severely sight impaired. Look at your benefit award letter and check the current criteria on GOV.UK, as the qualifying levels are specific. If you are not automatically eligible, you may still qualify after the council assesses your application.

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