If you struggle with your mobility, familiar places, or need a carer or companion with you whenever you go anywhere; a Blue Badge would mean you would have less stressful journeys, and would be closer to your destination by using Blue Badge spaces.

The current wait times when applying for a Blue Badge is between 4 to 12 weeks, and up to 12 weeks when reapplying – but as this is usually done through your local council, don’t forget to check if there are any restrictions, updated wait times, etc.
The cost of a Blue Badge is £10 in England, £10 in Northern Ireland, £20 in Scotland, and is free in Wales.

To apply, you’ll need:

  • National Insurance Number
  • Details of your current blue badge (if reapplying)
  • Proof of any benefits you receive

Photo or scan of:

  • A clear, recent photo showing your head and shoulders – a passport-style photo is recommended
  • Proof of identity – this can be a birth certificate, passport or driving license
  • Proof of address – this can be a government letter
  • Proof of benefits (if applicable)

The application itself is very long, with some questions that you may find confusing or difficult to answer.

You are automatically eligible for a Blue Badge if you:

  • Scored 8 points or more in the ‘Moving Around’ section of your PIP assessment
  • Scored 10 points in the ‘Planning and Following Journeys’ section of your PIP assessment, and put in category ‘E’ – which means your stress, anxiety or other mental health condition stops you leaving the house
  • Are registered blind
  • Get the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance
  • Get War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
  • Received a lump sum payment as part of the Armed Forces Compensation scheme, and have been certified as having a permanent and substantial disability

Note that if you get more than 10 points on the ‘Planning and Following Journeys’ section of your PIP assessment, you are not automatically eligible for a Blue Badge.

Be aware that you may be asked to go to an in-person assessment if more information about your condition or disability is needed. There also may be a walking portion in the assessment.

If your application is successful

If your application is successful, you will receive an email or letter stating that your application has been processed and your council have ordered your badge.

If your application is unsuccessful

If your application is unsuccessful, you will receive a letter or email from your council explaining why you have been refused. You will also be refunded.

You can ask for a review of the decision – every council is different, so there may be a form that you can send back to them, or you may be asked to write your own letter to send back to the address at the top of your letter. Explain in your letter why the reasons for your rejection are wrong, in as much detail as you can. Add more details if you can, and include any evidence.

Disclaimer: To the best of my ability, the information found on this website is correct at the time of writing.

Page last updated: 09/10/2025