Questions have been raised about the time it takes to apply for a blue badge after the UK Government confirmed that 90% of all scheme applications are made online. The Department for Transport also said it runs a “programme of continuous improvement to the digital service to make online badge applications quicker and easier for applicants and local authorities”.

Lilian Greenwood, the transport minister, said this includes “undertaking specific research and testing to identify innovative improvements to the online application process”. The minister was responding after Reform UK MP Lee Anderson asked what steps are being taken to “reduce processing times for applications to the Blue Badge digital service”.

The Blue Badge Digital Service offers a national online application and badge management facility through GOV.UK.

According to latest statistics, there are currently more than 3 million Blue Badge holders in England and Scotland.

In 2019 eligibility criteria was extended to include individuals with non-visible disabilities such as Parkinson's, dementia and epilepsy to help more people park closer to the places they want to go when they travel as a driver, or a passenger. 

Most users will be aware their Blue Badge has an expiry date of three years from the point of issue, however, many may not be aware that renewal is not automatic and an application should be made 12 weeks before it expires to ensure the new permit arrives before the current one is no longer valid.

Blue Badge holders could face a £1,000 fine if they continue to display it after it has expired.

Eligibility is reviewed every time a renewal application is submitted. 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 a Blue Badge online

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

You’ll also need a photo or scan of your:

• proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence)
• proof of address (such as a Council Tax bill or government letter)
• proof of benefits (if you get any)

You will also need to know:

• your National Insurance number (if you have one)
• the details of your current Blue Badge

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

  Change of details

  You should contact your local council if there's a change to your:

  • name
  • address
  • council area
  • contact details

Top 10 things to remember when using your Blue Badge

• • • You must follow the rules when using your Blue Badge, if you don’t you are committing a crime
    • You can only use your Blue Badge as a driver or passenger
    • No-one else should use your badge if you are not in the vehicle with them
    • If you are not getting out of the vehicle, you should not use your Blue Badge to get a parking space
    • You must not let other people use your badge
    • You must display your Blue Badge the right way up so the number can be seen clearly and your photo is face down
    • You must apply for a new badge before your old badge runs out
    • If your badge gets damaged you must apply for a new one
    • Keep your badge safe. If it is lost or stolen, you must tell the police and the Local Council
    • Check signs to make sure that Blue Badge holders are allowed to park there