People with a hidden health condition could be eligible for a Blue Badge as a driver or passenger
If you are not automatically eligible, you may be able to get a Blue Badge under certain other circumstances.
Eleven groups of people automatically qualify for a Blue Badge, which can be used when travelling as either a driver in their own vehicle or as a passenger in any other car. This includes people who are registered blind (or severely sight-impaired), those on the higher level of the mobility rate for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Child Disability Payment (CDP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
However, the Scottish Government has published a comprehensive list of circumstances which could see people with hidden conditions, walking issues or parents caring for a disabled child, qualify for a Blue Badge.
Applications for a Blue Badge can be made online, however the guidance advises that people with a mental condition need to contact their local council directly. This is because they may need an assessment before a Blue Badge can be issued.
The guidance states: “If you have a mental condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic, you cannot apply online. You should phone your local council's Blue Badge team for a paper application form.”
The guidance also advises that those who do not automatically qualify for the Blue Badge scheme may need to have a mobility assessment and a meeting with a healthcare professional.
If you have a physical disability or health condition that affects your ability to walk safely, or have a hidden condition such as a heart condition, dementia, ADHD, epilepsy, chronic fatigue or Parkinson's, you may be able to get a Blue Badge to help you park closer to the places you want to go.
There are currently more than 235,700 Blue Badge holders living in Scotland and in many cases, people will automatically qualify for the £20 parking permit. An estimated 3.2 million people benefit from the scheme across the UK.
It’s also worth noting that there is no set processing time for new applications or Blue Badge renewals, but it can take around 12 weeks - but it usually around 10 working days. Your local council processes Blue Badge applications and sets the price - they will also be able to advise on how long it might take.
Below is a brief overview of the Blue Badge application process. Full details can be found on MYGOV.SCOT here.
Blue Badge updates
Blue Badge automatic qualification
You will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge in Scotland if you:
- are under 16 and have a letter confirming your eligibility from your visual impairment care team
- are 16 or over and registered or certified as severely sight impaired
- get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA
- get PIP and scored 8 points or more in the 'moving around' area of your assessment
- get PIP and scored 12 points in the 'planning and following a journey' area of your assessment
- get PIP and used to get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA on an indefinite or lifetime basis
- get PIP, used to get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA, and your PIP decision is being appealed
- get ADP and have been awarded either 8 points or more in the moving around activity or 12 points in the planning and following a journey activity or enhanced rate mobility without reference to points
- get the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment
- get War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement
- got a lump sum payment from tariffs 1 to 8 of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme and have been certified as having a permanent and substantial disability
Other people who may qualify for a Blue Badge
If you are not automatically eligible, you may be able to get a Blue Badge in certain circumstances, if you:
- have a substantial disability lasting at least 12 months that means you cannot walk at all
- have a substantial disability lasting at least 12 months that means you're virtually unable to walk
- regularly drive and cannot use parking meters because of a severe disability in both arms
- are responsible for a child under 3-years-old who needs to be kept close to a vehicle for medical treatment
- are responsible for a child under 3-years-old who uses bulky medical equipment that cannot be carried around
- have a mental health condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic when making journeys
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Where can I park with my Blue Badge?
You can use your Blue Badge to park in certain restricted areas for free, including:
- at on-street parking meters
- in pay and display bays
- in disabled parking spaces
- on single and double yellow lines if there are no loading restrictions
Using your badge in other parts of the UK
You can use your Blue Badge in most other countries. If you're using your Blue Badge in England or Wales you will need to use a parking clock - this comes with your Blue Badge.
The Timer Clock is a plastic dial with hands that can be adjusted to show the time of parking arrival.
What do I need to apply?
Applications are made online to your local council and you’ll need a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders - you can take this picture yourself.
You will 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 - you can also choose to have your local council check the Electoral Register instead
- proof of benefits - if you get any
You will also need to know:
- your National Insurance number
- the details of your current Blue Badge - if you’re reapplying
Once you apply, your local council will process your application and give you a decision.
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If your application is turned down
Your local council should tell you why you’re not eligible. You can ask them to reconsider their decision if you think they haven’t taken into account some important information.
You can also reapply if your disability or health condition becomes more serious. Apply for a Blue Badge on the mygov.scot website here.