.png){kind=small}
Download the Blue Badge Form and Apply in Minutes
Can You Download an Application Form for a Blue Badge?
A Blue Badge is a special parking permit that allows people with disabilities or health conditions that affect their mobility to park closer to their destination. It can also give access to other concessions, such as free or discounted parking, exemption from tolls or congestion charges, and use of bus lanes.
If you're eligible for a Blue Badge, you can apply for one online or on paper. In this article, we'll explain how to do both, what you need to apply, how much it costs, and how long it takes. We'll also tell you what to do if your application is refused and answer some common questions about the scheme.
can you download an application form for a blue badge
Benefits of Having a Blue Badge
Having a Blue Badge can make travelling easier and more convenient for you and anyone who drives you around. With a Blue Badge, you can:
Park in designated disabled parking spaces, which are usually wider and closer to the entrance of buildings
Park on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours, unless there is a ban on loading or unloading
Park for free and without time limit in most on-street parking spaces, such as pay-and-display bays or meters
Park for free in some off-street car parks, such as those run by local councils or supermarkets
Use your badge in other countries that recognise the scheme, such as the European Union, Norway, Switzerland, and some states in the USA
Depending on where you live, you may also be eligible for other benefits, such as:
Exemption from tolls or congestion charges, such as the London Congestion Charge or the Dartford Crossing
Use of bus lanes or priority routes
Discounted parking rates or permits from private operators
To find out more about the benefits of having a Blue Badge in your area, contact your local council or visit their website.
How to Apply for a Blue Badge Online
The easiest way to apply for or renew a Blue Badge is online at GOV.UK. You can use this service if you live in England, Scotland, or Wales. If you live in Northern Ireland, you need to apply through a different website. Here are the steps to apply for a Blue Badge online:
How to apply for a blue badge online or by paper
Blue badge eligibility criteria and benefits
Blue badge application form PDF download
What documents do you need for a blue badge application
Blue badge renewal process and fees
Blue badge scheme for disabled drivers and passengers
How to check the status of your blue badge application
How to report a lost, stolen or damaged blue badge
How to use your blue badge correctly and avoid fines
How to appeal a blue badge refusal or cancellation
Where can you park with a blue badge in the UK
Blue badge parking rules and exemptions
Blue badge parking map and app
How to find accessible parking spaces with a blue badge
Blue badge discounts and concessions for travel and leisure
How to apply for a blue badge if you have a hidden disability
Blue badge assessment and mobility test
How long does it take to get a blue badge
How to change your details on your blue badge
How to return your blue badge if you no longer need it
Blue badges for children and young people with disabilities
Blue badges for organisations that transport disabled people
Blue badges for war veterans and armed forces personnel
How to get a companion badge or carer's permit with a blue badge
How to get a green badge or white badge for other parking needs
How to apply for a blue badge in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland
How to use your blue badge abroad in Europe and other countries
How to get a disabled person's railcard or bus pass with a blue badge
How to get a mobility scooter or wheelchair with a blue badge
How to get other disability benefits and grants with a blue badge
What is the difference between a blue badge and a disabled parking permit
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a blue badge
What are the common myths and misconceptions about the blue badge scheme
What are the best tips and advice for blue badge holders
What are the latest news and updates on the blue badge scheme
How to contact your local council or GOV.UK about your blue badge queries
How to find support and guidance from charities and organisations for blue badge holders
How to join online forums and communities for blue badge holders
How to share your feedback and experiences as a blue badge holder
How to get involved in campaigns and consultations on the blue badge scheme
What You Need to Apply Online
Before you start your online application, make sure you have the following:
A digital or signed photo of yourself that meets the passport photo standards
A photo or scan of your proof of identity, such as your passport, driving licence, or birth certificate
A photo or scan of your proof of address, such as a recent utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill
A photo or scan of your proof of benefits, if you're applying under the automatic eligibility criteria (see below)
A photo or scan of any other documents that support your application, such as a letter from your doctor, a mobility assessment report, or a certificate of visual impairment
Your National Insurance number, if you have one
Your driving licence number, if you have one
A valid debit or credit card to pay the 10 fee (see below)
An email address and a phone number to receive updates on your application
How to Fill in the Online Application Form
Once you have everything you need, you can start your online application by visiting the GOV.UK website and clicking on "Start now". You'll be asked to enter your postcode and select your local council. Then, you'll be taken to the online application form, which consists of several sections:
Personal details: You'll need to provide your name, date of birth, gender, address, contact details, and driving licence number (if applicable).
Eligibility: You'll need to answer some questions about your disability or health condition and how it affects your mobility. Depending on your answers, you may be automatically eligible for a Blue Badge or need further assessment by your local council.
Photo: You'll need to upload a digital or signed photo of yourself that meets the passport photo standards.
Documents: You'll need to upload photos or scans of your proof of identity, proof of address, proof of benefits (if applicable), and any other documents that support your application.
Payment: You'll need to pay the 10 fee by debit or credit card. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
When filling in the online application form, make sure you:
Read the instructions and guidance carefully and follow them exactly
Answer all the questions honestly and accurately
Check your spelling and grammar before submitting
Keep a note of your application reference number and password for future reference
How to Pay for Your Blue Badge
The fee for a Blue Badge is 10 in England and 20 in Scotland. In Wales, there is no fee. You can pay for your Blue Badge online by debit or credit card when you complete the online application form. Alternatively, you can pay by cheque, postal order, cash, or phone after you submit your online application. You'll receive instructions on how to do this by email from your local council.
How Long It Takes to Get Your Blue Badge
After you submit your online application, you'll receive an email confirmation from your local council. They will review your application and let you know their decision within 12 weeks. However, this may take longer if they need more information from you or if they are experiencing high demand.
If your application is approved, you'll receive your Blue Badge by post within 10 working days. If your application is refused, you'll receive an email explaining why and how to challenge the decision or reapply if your circumstances change.
How to Apply for a Blue Badge on Paper
If you prefer not to apply online or cannot access the internet, you can also apply for or renew a Blue Badge on paper. This may take longer than applying online and require more effort from you. Here are the steps to apply for a Blue Badge on paper:
Where to Get a Paper Application Form
To get a paper application form, you can either:
Contact your local council by phone, email, or post and request one. You can find their contact details on the GOV.UK website by entering your postcode and selecting your local council.
Download and print a paper application form from your local council's website. You can find their website address on the GOV.UK website by entering your postcode and selecting your local council.
Make sure you get the right paper application form for your situation. There are different forms for people who are applying under the automatic eligibility criteria and people who are applying under the further assessment criteria (see below).
How to Fill in the Paper Application Form
Once you have the paper application form, you need to fill it in by hand and sign it. The paper application form consists of several sections:
Personal details: You'll need to provide your name, date of birth, gender, address, contact details, and driving licence number (if applicable).
Eligibility: