Blue Badge holders warned they could be hit with £1,000 fine for parking mistake

Blue Badge holders could face fines of up to £1,000 for breaking easy-to-forget rules. Moreover, misuse of the Blue Badge alongside other traffic offences could result in even higher penalties.

The government has spelt out the ‘rights and responsibilities’ of the Blue Badge scheme, with slight variations across different parts of the UK. Key rules include using the permit as a driver or passenger, parking restrictions, rules about remaining in the car in a disabled parking space and whether others can use the badge.

There are specific rules for off-street car parks such as hospitals and supermarkets – signage in these areas should be observed. The Blue Badge allows a vehicle to park in many places where other motorists cannot, including on-street parking meter spaces, on-street pay-and-display spaces, disabled person’s parking spaces and over single or double yellow lines, reports the

Here are some essential tips for using a Blue Badge correctly and six parking rules to follow, whether you’re a driver or passenger. Full details about using a Blue Badge correctly can be found on

• You should check for time restrictions on nearby signs or with the local authorities and use a parking clock.
• You can park on single or double yellow lines, unless there are loading restrictions in place.
• Check signs to make sure that Blue Badge holders are allowed to park there.
• You must not let other people use your badge.
• You must display your Blue Badge the right way up so the number can be seen clearly and your photo is face down.
• If you are a passenger, someone else can use your Blue Badge to drop you off or pick you up.
• No-one else should use your badge if you are not in the vehicle with them.
• If your badge gets damaged you must apply for a new one.
• You can only use your Blue Badge as a driver or passenger.
• Keep your badge safe. If it is lost or stolen, you must tell the police and the local council.
• You must follow the rules when using your Blue Badge – if you don’t you are committing a crime.
• You must apply for a new badge before your old badge runs out.
• If you are not getting out of the vehicle, you should not use your Blue Badge to get a parking space.
• If you are a passenger and the driver is remaining in the car, the badge must be removed from the vehicle and the driver should park in a non-disabled parking space.
• If you are not getting out of the vehicle, you should not use your Blue Badge to get a parking space.
• Never park where it would endanger, inconvenience or obstruct pedestrians or other road users.

Who might be eligible for a Blue Badge?

If you have a physical disability or health condition that affects your ability to walk safely, or if you suffer from a hidden illness such as dementia, autism or Parkinson’s, you may be eligible for a Blue Badge. This would enable you to park closer to your destinations.

Eligibility criteria include having a significant disability lasting at least 12 months that prevents you from walking or makes it very difficult, regularly driving but being unable to use parking meters due to severe disability in both arms, or caring for a child under three who needs medical treatment near a vehicle or uses bulky medical equipment. To apply, you need to submit an online application to your local council, along with a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders.

You’ll also need to provide a photograph or scan of your proof of identity (like a birth certificate, passport or driving licence), proof of address (for example, a Council Tax bill or government letter – alternatively, you can opt for your local council to verify the Electoral Register) and proof of benefits if you receive any. You’ll also need to know your National Insurance number and the details of your current Blue Badge if you’re reapplying.

After you’ve applied, your local council will handle your application and inform you of their decision. You can start the application process through