12-week warning for persons using the permit as a driver or passenger

Latest statistics from the Department for Transport and Transport Scotland show that there are currently over 2.8 million Blue Badge holders in England (2.57 million) and Scotland (235,779). The Scottish figure could be much higher, with the most recent data published in November 2021.

The eligibility criteria for a Blue Badge were expanded in 2019 to include people with non-visible disabilities such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia and epilepsy. The permit allows people to park closer to where they want to go when travelling as a driver or passenger.

Most users are aware that their Blue Badge has an expiry date of three years from the date of issue, but many may not be aware that renewal is not automatic and that an application must be submitted 12 weeks (three months) before expiry to ensure that the new permit arrives before the current one is no longer valid. Blue Badge holders can face a hefty fine of £1,000 if they continue to display the card after it has expired.

This is because displaying an expired Blue Badge is classed as ‘misuse’. Transport Scotland guidance states: “Misuse of a badge is a criminal offence. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge.”

Eligibility for a Blue Badge is also assessed each time a renewal application is made. Guidance on MyGov.Scot explains: “Your Blue Badge is not automatically renewed. You must reapply for it every 3 years.

“Your eligibility will be checked each time you re-apply. This is to ensure you can still get a Blue Badge. Your local council will process your application and decide whether you can get a Blue Badge.

“You must reapply 12 weeks before your badge expires.”

A Blue Badge costs £20 in Scotland, up to £10 in England and is free in Wales. You can reapply for your Blue Badge on the GOV.UK site here.

How to renew your Blue Card online

You will need a recent digital photograph showing your head and shoulders.

You will also need a photo or scan of:

• proof of identity (such as birth certificate, passport or driver’s license)
• proof of address (such as a municipal tax assessment or a letter from the government)
• proof of benefits (if you have any)

You should also know the following:

• your citizen service number (if you have one)
• your current Blue Badge details

You can start the application online and save the information you enter if you need to find the required documents. You can easily return to it later and complete the process.

Change of data

You must contact your municipality if there is a change in your:

• name
• address
• council area
• contact details

Top 10 Things to Remember When Using Your Blue Card

• You must follow the rules when using your Blue Card. If you do not, you are committing a crime.
• You can only use your Blue Card as a driver or passenger
• No one else is allowed to use your badge if you are not in the vehicle with them.
• If you do not get out of the vehicle, you will not be allowed to use your Blue Card to get a parking space
• You may not allow others to use your badge
• You must hold your blue badge upright so that the number is clearly visible and your photo is facing downwards.
• You must request a new badge before your old badge expires
• If your badge gets damaged, you must request a new one
• Keep your badge safe. If it is lost or stolen, you must inform the police and local council.
• Check the signs to make sure that disabled parking permit holders are allowed to park there