Introduction
The Blue Badge scheme is the name given to the UK system of issuing disabled parking permits to disabled people who struggle with mobility or are unsafe when moving around for other reasons. Blue badges are valid for parking across the whole UK whether they were issued in Scotland or in England.
Who can apply for a blue badge?
Anyone who struggles with mobility because they are disabled can apply for a blue badge. You do not need to have a car or drive. The blue badge exists to allow a more parking options when a vehicle is carrying a disabled person or being driven by a disabled person. The badge is associated with the person and not with the car. This also means that the blue badge may not be used when the disabled person is not in the car.
Who will be given a blue badge automatically?
Some people are automatically eligible to receive a blue badge if they apply. Examples include people who
- Are registered severely sight impaired.
- Score 8 points or more in the Moving Around activity, or 12 points in the Planning and Following a Journey activity of the Adult Disability Payment.
- Get the higher rate of mobility of Child Disability Payment.
There is a longer list of those who are automatically eligible which includes people receiving some other disability benefits. You can check whether you are automatically eligible on the full list.
If your application is unsuccessful
If your council decides you are not eligible, they should tell you why. You can ask them to reconsider your case if you don’t think the information you provided was taken into account. You can re-apply if your mobility problems become more serious.
Parking concessions
When you park using the concessions your badge gives you, you must display the badge at the front of the car where it can be clearly read through the windscreen. If you do not display the badge correctly you may be fined.Â
The badge and its concessions are for the badge holder’s use only. It is a criminal offence to misuse the badge.Â
Blue badge holders can park on single or double yellow lines for as long as they need to, unless there is a ban on loading and unloading. Badge holders can also park at parking meters on the street and, at council pay and display machines and disabled parking bays for free as long as they want to.Â
You can still get a parking ticket if you park where there is a ban on loading and unloading during the prohibited times, or in other restricted areas such as a local permit holder bay and you don’t have a permit, Always check signs to see what the rules are when parking.
If you do receive a parking ticket you can appeal.Â
Regional parking variations
Scotland has a national scheme, but there are variations in the rules elsewhere. In Scotland, there is no time restriction on parking for Blue Badge holders, unless local restrictions apply. In England and Wales you will need a parking clock which must be displayed when you are parking on yellow lines or in a Blue Badge parking bay that has a time limit.
Badge holders living in Scotland should now be given a parking clock when they receive their Blue Badge. If not, contact your council. The Blue Badge scheme does not apply in four central London boroughs, who offer their own parking concessions.
Parking abroad
Acceptance of the Blue Badge varies, so check national and local rules before your travel.Â
There is information about using your badge in the European Union and European Economic Area here Using a Blue Badge in the European Union and European Economic Area – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Further information and resources
Blue Badge Initial Enquiry Support Service
Telephone (Scotland): 0344 100 1001
Transport Scotland / Blue Badge Improvement Service
Information last updated on 8 February 2024. Please note that information may be subject to change. All information is provided in good faith but Disability Information Scotland does not endorse any product or service referred to within this resource.
If you would like this information guide in another version then please contact us and we will post or email you a copy.
Mobility, Travel and Transport:Frequently Asked Questions
Through our helpline we receive enquiries spanning a wide range of different topics. Here is a selection of those most asked:
Can I get a reduction of Vehicle Excise Duty?
If you are disabled you may be entitled to a reduction or exemption of vehicle tax. The vehicle must be registered in your name or a specific driver’s name and must only be used for your personal needs.
You can apply for exemption if you get the:
- higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- enhanced rate mobility component of Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
- War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
You can get a 50% reduction in vehicle tax if you get the Personal Independence Payment or Adult Disability Payment standard rate mobility component Adult Disability Payment – mygov.scot
You can find out more here Vehicles exempt from vehicle tax – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
How can I get a disabled parking space outside my house?
If you need a disabled parking space outside your house, contact your council. They will assess your circumstances and may charge for this.
To qualify, you must
- have a current blue badge
- either be the driver of the vehicle or be assisted by a carer who is the driver if they live where the space is needed
- keep the vehicle at the address you give on the application form
- normally have difficulty getting a perking space on the public road.
A disabled parking space can be used by anyone with a blue badge, not just the person who applied for it.
For further information or help searching for your local council’s contact number then please contact our helpline on 0300 323 9961.
For more information on getting a blue badge, check out our Blue Badges Information Guide.
Mobility, Travel and Transport:Search for Local Organisations
Our quick search tool can connect you to over 3000 service providers, suppliers and organisations supporting people across Scotland. To find support near you, simply enter your search term and select your local authority.
| Organisation | Description |
|---|---|
| Altogether Travel | Services provided: Altogether Travel is the award winning Supported Holiday and Travel company. This unique service combines a travel agent with a care company, they are the UK’s first Care Inspectorate registered travel company. This means they can… |
| Aspire2 Mobility | From scooters to active wheelchairs, riser chairs, beds, and everything in between; we’re committed to helping you find the best solution to live your life as freely and comfortably as possible. Although we’re based in the middle of the English country… |
| Atlas Conversions | Supplier of easy access and wheelchair accessible vehicles |
| Autism Specific Consultancy Services Scotland Ltd | Autism Specific Consultancy Services Scotland Ltd (ASCS-S) offers a range of services that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of its customer. The Autism Consultant and Director of ASCS-S’ has over two decades of experience in the Health and So… |
| Autoadapt | Provide a range of adaptations for vehicles |
| Automotive Group | Manufacture and supply accessible vehicles |
| Back Up Trust | Aims: The Back-Up Trust inspires people to transform their lives after spinal cord injury. The charity challenges perceptions of disability and run services which grow confidence and independence and offer a supportive network. Services provided: Hold… |
| Badenoch & Strathspey Community ConnXions | Services provided: BSCX operates one of the most successful Community Transport Schemes in Scotland, with the assistance of volunteer drivers and telephonists. The scheme meets the individual needs of people who cannot get out and about and fills gaps… |
| Beach Wheelchair Project North Berwick | Services provided: We are based in the Beach Hut in North Berwick Harbour. We provide free hires of beach wheelchairs to help anyone with reduced mobility to get on the sand at our beautiful beach. We have a range of wheelchairs to suit as many people… |
| Blue Badge Scotland | Guidance on Blue Badge eligibility and online applications via the website |