To receive a disabled badge or 'Blue Badge' as it is known in the UK, there are certain criteria that have to be fulfilled.
Getting a Blue Badge
Who is entitled to a Blue Badge?
Anyone who is over two years old and is registered blind or is receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or a War Pensioner's Mobility Supplement will automatically be entitled to the scheme.
Assessment
You will need to undergo an assessment if you have a permanent and substantial disability which means you cannot walk, or makes walking very difficult or if you drive a motor vehicle regularly and have a severe disability in both arms, making it very difficult or impossible to operate parking meters.
Parents can apply for Blue Badges for their children in certain circumstances. Your local authority is responsible for the parking permits scheme and will advise you as to whether you qualify and what examinations you may need to undergo.
How to apply
Contact your local council - it will send you the Blue Badge application form which you must complete and return with two passport sized photographs. An application fee may apply. In England, badges may be applied for online. Most badges are valid for three years. If you lose your badge, if it is stolen or if the holder dies, the local council must be informed immediately.
Using the Blue Badge
Using the badge as a driver or passenger
You do not need to be driving the vehicle to use your Blue Badge as the badge is valid in any vehicle in which the holder is travelling but must be displayed clearly.
Where can you use your badge
Disabled badge holders may park on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours, except where there is a ban on loading or unloading, at 'on-street' parking meters and pay-and-display machines for free and for as long as they need to or in designated disabled parking spaces.
Rules may differ in different areas, so make sure you confirm with your local council exactly where you may park with your badge. The scheme does not apply to off-street car parks, private roads and at most airports or in certain areas of London.
Travelling abroad
Using your disability parking permit in EU countries
The UK has an agreement with most of the EU countries to allow reciprocal use of the Bue Badge scheme. However, it is very important that you check the specific regulations of the country to which you are travelling.
Final word
The Blue Badge scheme is for disabled people only and should not be misused. For more information, check the UK government website.
