Blue Badge holders could be fined up to £1,000 if they fail to return their badge when it is no longer needed. The warning comes from Gov.uk, which states that people must give the badge back to their council if their condition improves or they no longer require it.
According to Citizens Advice, this guidance applies only to England. The advice targets individuals whose circumstances have changed, meaning they no longer qualify for a Blue Badge. Failure to return the permit can result in the maximum fine.
Other reasons for a fine
Misusing a Blue Badge deliberately is another reason holders could face a fine of up to £1,000. Examples of misuse include giving the badge to someone else to use, continuing to use it when it is no longer needed, or using it to park while just waiting without intending to leave the car.
Citizens Advice reminds holders: "If someone else is driving you, you must let them know the rules. If they don’t follow them the council can take your badge away."
Eligibility and application
People are automatically eligible for a Blue Badge if they are registered as blind, care for a blind child aged over 2, receive the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), get War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, or received a lump sum payment under the Armed Forces Compensation scheme (tariffs 1 to 8) with a certified permanent and substantial disability.
For those receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP), automatic eligibility applies if they scored 8 points or more in the ‘moving around’ area, or scored 10 points in the ‘planning and following journeys’ area and were placed in category ‘E’. Those not automatically eligible can still get a badge if they have long-term problems walking or going to places, including issues caused by stress, anxiety or other mental health conditions, or severe problems using both arms. For children, a badge can be obtained if the child is over 2 with long-term walking problems or under 3 and needs to be close to a vehicle due to a health condition.
Applications and renewals can be completed online on GOV.UK, or via paper forms at some councils. Applicants must apply through their local council, as a doctor cannot obtain a badge on their behalf. Those not automatically eligible must complete an extra part of the form explaining their need, and can contact Citizens Advice for help.
Required documents
Before applying, holders need their National Insurance number or child reference number, and details of any current Blue Badge. Additional documents include the original decision letter from the Department for Work and Pensions if automatically eligible, details of a medical condition if not automatically eligible, proof of identification, proof of address from the last 12 months, and a recent digital photograph.
For postal applications, Citizens Advice recommends sending photocopies rather than originals. A professional, such as a solicitor, must certify the ID copy by signing it and writing ‘This copy is a true likeness of the original’, along with their name, address, occupation, and the date. Some professionals may charge a fee for this service.
