There’s a reminder to renew ahead of time
The government has issued a stark reminder to all Blue Badge carriers about the improper use of the disability parking permit.
It comes after Labour MP Sojan Joseph issued a question about the potential for temporary use of expired badges while awaiting renewal. Responding in writing on Thursday, Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood MP said: “The Department has no plans to allow the temporary use of an expired Blue Badge.
“It is an offence to use an expired badge which should be returned to the issuing local authority. Allowing the use of expired badges would undermine the effective enforcement of the scheme.”
Since expanding the eligibility for Blue Badges in 2019 to include those with non-visible disabilities like Parkinson’s, dementia, and epilepsy, more individuals can now park nearer their destinations. As reported by the Daily Record, badge holders should be aware that the permits expire three years from the date of issue, and renewing is not an automatic process—applications should be made 12 weeks prior to expiry.
Delaying renewal could hit hard in the pocket, as displaying an outdated badge could lead to a steep £1,000 fine. Under official guidelines, this counts as ‘misuse’, which is illegal, noting: “Misuse of a badge is a crime. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge.”
As the deadline for renewing Blue Badges approaches, users must act swiftly to avoid missing the cut-off date. Badges expire by the end of May, and to meet the 12-week guideline, renewal applications must be submitted by the end of February.
The eligibility criteria for Blue Badges are reassessed with each renewal, as stated in the official guidelines: “Your Blue Badge is not renewed automatically. You need to reapply for it every 3 years” and “Your eligibility will be checked every time you reapply.”
This reassessment ensures that applicants still qualify for a Blue Badge. Local councils process the applications and determine eligibility.
It is recommended to begin the reapplication process 12 weeks prior to the current badge’s expiration date. The cost of a Blue Badge varies across the UK: £10 in England, £20 in Scotland, and free in Wales.
Reapplications can be submitted through the GOV.UK website.
How to renew your Blue Badge online
You will require a recent digital photograph of your head and shoulders. Additionally, you’ll need:
- proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence)
- proof of benefits (if you get any)
- proof of address (such as a Council Tax bill or government letter)
- the details of your current Blue Badge
- your National Insurance number (if you have one)
You can conveniently return to the application form later to finish the process.