The Government has issued a stern warning to all Blue Badge holders, stating that it is illegal to use the disability parking permit if it has expired.
The Department for Transport’s response was prompted by Labour MP Sojan Joseph’s question about the possibility of temporarily using an expired badge while its renewal is being processed.
In a written reply on Thursday, Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood MP stated: “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.”
The eligibility criteria for a Blue Badge was broadened in 2019 to include individuals with non-visible disabilities such as Parkinson’s, dementia and epilepsy, enabling more people to park closer to their destinations when travelling as a driver or passenger, reports the Daily Record.
Blue Badge holders are reminded that their permits have a three-year expiry date from the date of issue, but renewal is not automatic. An application should be made 12 weeks before expiry—failing to renew on time could result in a hefty £1,000 fine for displaying an outdated badge, which is considered ‘misuse’ under guidelines, which state: “Misuse of a badge is a crime. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge.”
With badges expiring by the end of May requiring a renewal application by the end of February to meet the 12-week guideline, users must act fast. The eligibility for a Blue Badge is re-assessed at each renewal, with official guidance stating “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 is to make sure you can still get a Blue Badge. Your local council processes your application and decides if you can get a Blue Badge.” It’s advised to start the reapplication process 12 weeks before the current badge expires.
Costs vary across the UK, with a Blue Badge costing £10 in England, £20 in Scotland, and free of charge in Wales. Reapplications can be done through the GOV.UK site.
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.