UK Blue Badge parking permit explained: eligibility and concessions

People with disabilities and certain health conditions can apply for a Blue Badge parking permit that allows them to park closer to destinations, use disabled bays and in many cases be exempt from some onstreet parking restrictions. The scheme, introduced in 1970 to help people with mobility difficulties, covers holders when driving their own vehicle and when travelling as a passenger in any car, including taxis, provided the badge holder is present.

A Blue Badge grants a range of concessions. Holders can use designated disabled parking bays and, in most circumstances, may park on single or double yellow lines for up to three hours. Badge holders may be entitled to free parking at onstreet parking meters and pay and display machines when the badge is displayed correctly, though local signs and restrictions can override these concessions. Offstreet car parks must provide spaces for Blue Badge holders, but operators may still apply their own charges. Some locations remain always prohibited, and misuse can attract fines or penalties.

Eligibility is divided into automatic and discretionary categories. Automatic qualification covers a number of specified groups, including people who...