The Blue Badge scheme provides a range of parking and toll concessions for people with severe mobility problems, including free parking and being able to park closer to your destination.
A Blue Badge is awarded to the individual, so you can apply if you are a driver or a passenger.
There are three categories of Blue Badge:
- Automatic
- Discretionary
- Temporary
There is no charge for a Blue Badge; however, you must meet certain criteria depending on which category you are applying for.
Automatic eligibility
If you are receiving certain benefits you are automatically eligible for a Blue Badge – you must still apply directly to your local council but there is no need for an assessment.
You are also automatically eligible if you are registered blind or have a severe sight impairment.
Armed forces veterans have automatic eligibility if receiving benefits under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (Tariff 1 ̶ 8), including Tariff 6 under Permanent Mental Disorder.
Discretionary
You or your child could be eligible for a discretionary Blue Badge in the following circumstances:
- You or a child over two are unable to walk or have difficulty walking, e.g. you need walking aids or oxygen to walk a short distance.
- A child under three needs to travel with bulky medical equipment or must always be near a vehicle so they can quickly access life-saving medical treatment for their condition.
- You have a severe cognitive impairment, i.e. you cannot plan or go on a journey without support from someone else.
- You have a terminal illness that seriously limits your mobility.
- You have a severe disability in both arms (you can only apply using this criteria if you are the driver).
You will be asked to supply satisfactory evidence of the qualifying condition or illness during the application process.
Temporary
If you are recovering from, or awaiting treatment for, a serious illness or injury, you can apply for a temporary 12-month badge. Examples include:
- Complex leg fractures which take well over a year to treat.
- Joint replacements, e.g. hip, knee, which severely limit mobility.
- Stroke, head and spinal injuries which affect mobility.
- Undergoing medical treatment, e.g. for cancer, which has an impact on mobility.
You will be assessed for a temporary Blue Badge.
For more information about eligibility visit gov.wales
Organisational badges
Organisations transporting disabled people who would qualify individually for a Blue Badge can apply for an organisational badge.
Applying for a Blue Badge
To apply for a Blue Badge (or renew an existing one) contact your local council or apply online (your application will be sent to your local council to assess).
Your local council’s decision is final – you cannot appeal to the Welsh Government.