Glossary · UK
What is Blue Badge?
A national scheme permit that lets disabled people, or those who drive them, park closer to destinations with extra concessions on restricted parking.
Full Definition
The Blue Badge is a UK-wide parking permit for people with severe mobility difficulties, certain hidden disabilities, or those who care for them. It allows the holder to park in disabled bays and, in many areas, on single or double yellow lines for a limited time and free of charge or for longer than normal at on-street meters and pay-and-display bays. You apply through your local council, which assesses eligibility; some applicants qualify automatically (for example, certain disability benefit recipients), while others undergo a mobility assessment. Councils may charge an application fee up to a capped amount, and the badge typically lasts up to three years before renewal. Rules on where it can be used vary by local authority, and it does not apply in some central London congestion zones with their own arrangements. The badge belongs to the person, not the vehicle, so it can be used in any car the holder travels in. Misuse is a criminal offence.