Thousands of Brits could be eligible for a Blue Badge even without receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or other disability benefits.

Many assume a Blue Badge is exclusively available to those with physical mobility difficulties or those claiming PIP, however, following a rule change in 2019, local councils across England, Scotland and Wales can grant a Blue Badge following an individual assessment – even when no disability benefit is being paid.

The amendment means people with hidden conditions, including autism, dementia and severe anxiety, may be eligible for a Blue Badge if travelling causes overwhelming psychological distress or serious safety risks.

Eligibility for a Blue Badge is not restricted to benefit awards. Whilst some Brits qualify automatically through certain mobility payments, others can apply directly through their local council and be assessed on how their condition impacts their ability to make a journey.

With more than two million Blue Badges in circulation across the UK awareness of the non-benefit route remains low, leaving some families unaware they could be entitled to support, reports the Daily Record.

Two ways to qualify for a Blue Badge

Automatic eligibility

• Certain mobility benefit awards
• No further council assessment needed

Further assessment

• No qualifying benefit required
• Council reviews medical evidence
• Decision based on how your condition affects travel

Blue Badge automatic qualification

You will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you:

• are under 16 and have a letter confirming your eligibility from your visual impairment care team
• are 16 or over and registered or certified as severely sight impaired
• get the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• get PIP and scored 8 points or more in the ‘moving around’ area of your assessment
• get PIP and scored 12 points in the ‘planning and following a journey’ area of your assessment
• get PIP and used to get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA on an indefinite or lifetime basis
• get PIP, used to get the higher rate of the mobility component of DLA, and your PIP decision is being appealed
• get the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment
• get War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
• got a lump sum payment from tariffs 1 to 8 of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme and have been certified as having a permanent and substantial disability

If travelling causes overwhelming distress, panic or serious safety risks, you may still be eligible even if you do not claim disability benefits.

Other people who may be eligible for a Blue Badge

If you are not automatically eligible, you may be able to obtain a Blue Badge under certain circumstances, if you:

• have a substantial disability lasting at least 12 months that means you cannot walk at all
• have a substantial disability lasting at least 12 months that means you’re virtually unable to walk
• regularly drive and cannot use parking meters because of a severe disability in both arms
• are responsible for a child under 3-years-old who needs to be kept close to a vehicle for medical treatment
• are responsible for a child under 3-years-old who uses bulky medical equipment that cannot be carried around
• have a mental health condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic when making journeys

Blue Badge: Common Myths Explained

Myth 1: You must receive PIP or Adult Disability Payment to qualify

• Reality: Not always. Councils can assess applications even if no disability benefit is in payment.

Myth 2: Blue Badges are only for people with physical mobility problems

• Reality: Hidden disabilities, including autism, dementia and severe anxiety, can qualify if travelling causes severe psychological distress or safety risks.

Myth 3: You need to have a car in your name

• Reality: The badge belongs to the person, not the vehicle. It can be used in any car they are travelling in.

Myth 4: You can use a relative’s badge if they’re not with you

• Reality: This is illegal. Misuse can lead to fines and confiscation.

Myth 5: If you’re refused once, that’s the end of it

• Reality: You can request a review and provide additional evidence.

How to apply for a Blue Badge

Applications are made online to your local council and you’ll need a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders – you can take this picture yourself.

You will also need a photo or scan of your:

• proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence)
• proof of address such as a Council Tax bill or government letter – you can also choose to have your local council check the Electoral Register instead
• proof of benefits – if you get any

You will also need to know:

• your National Insurance number
• the details of your current Blue Badge – if you’re reapplying

Once you apply, your local council will process your application and give you a decision.

If your application is turned down

Your local council should tell you why you’re not eligible. You can ask them to reconsider their decision if you think they haven’t taken into account some important information. You can also reapply if your disability or health condition becomes more serious.

With more than two million Blue Badges in circulation across the UK, the scheme is well established – but awareness of the non-benefit route remains low. Anyone who struggles to make journeys safely can check eligibility through their local council and request an assessment.