Blue badge scheme

A blue badge enables people with a seriously impaired ability to walk, or those registered blind, either as a passenger or driver, to park close to their destination.

With certain restrictions, a blue badge enables the holder to:

park free of charge at a parking meter or pay-and-display bays
park without a time limit at places where others are time-limited
park for up to three hours on single or double yellow lines (except where there is a ban on loading or unloading or other restrictions).

Badge holders are not permitted to park in a way that might cause an obstruction or danger to other road users.

Some central London boroughs have further restrictions on where blue badge holders can park. Details can be obtained from these boroughs (including Camden, Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea ).

To qualify
You will qualify automatically if you are a resident of the borough and can provide proof that you:

are registered as blind
or
receive a disability living allowance with a mobility component at higher rate
or
receive attendance allowance
or
use a vehicle supplied by a government department or receive a grant to allow you to adapt a vehicle for your needs
or
receive a war pension mobility supplement
or
have a severe disability in both upper limbs, hold a valid driving licence and are unable to turn the steering wheel by hand with the aid of a steering knob

Documentary evidence of residence and disability must be provided to support your application.

How to apply
Print out and complete the application form (word). Alternatively, you can collect a form from your local social services reception point or request one by telephoning (020) 8825 8000.

You will need to go in person to your local social services reception point with the completed application form and documentary evidence. If your application is successful, you will also need to provide two recent colour passport-style photographs of yourself (please sign them on the back). An administration fee of £2 is payable at the time of issuing.