Millions of Blue Badge holders are being advised to submit a renewal application at least three months before their permit expires if they still need it. In Scotland, Transport Scotland oversees the scheme, while local councils process applications and carry out assessments where required.
Guidance on the Scottish Government's website states: "Most local councils take around 12 weeks to make a decision but it can take longer. Check with your local council to find out their current waiting times."
More than three million active permits
Latest figures from the Department for Transport and Transport Scotland show over three million Blue Badge holders in England, around 220,000 in Wales and 235,779 in Scotland, using the permit as either a driver or passenger.
Most users know their badge has an expiry date of up to three years from issue, but many may not realise renewal is not automatic. The Department for Transport sends a reminder email about four months before expiry, provided the original application was made online and the email address has not changed.
Fines for expired badges
If a badge expires before the end of this year, holders should submit a renewal form now. The new badge will not be valid until the old one expires, as it has a start date.
Displaying an out-of-date Blue Badge is classed as misuse and could lead to a £1,000 fine. Transport Scotland guidance states: "Misuse of a badge is a crime. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge."
A Blue Badge costs £20 in Scotland, up to £10 in England and is free in Wales. Renewal applications can be made online via GOV.UK.
How to renew and what you need
Applicants need a recent digital photo of their head and shoulders, plus a photo or scan of proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence), proof of address (such as a Council Tax bill or government letter) and proof of benefits if any. They also need their National Insurance number and current Blue Badge details. Applications can be saved online and completed later.
Holders should contact their local council if their name, address, council area or contact details change.
Rules for using a Blue Badge include: only using it as a driver or passenger, not letting others use it, not using it if not getting out of the vehicle, displaying it correctly with the number visible and photo face down, applying for a new badge before the old one runs out, applying for a new one if damaged, reporting loss or theft to the police and local council, and checking signs to ensure parking is allowed.
