The Blue Badge scheme was extended in 2019 to include people with non-visible disabilities, such as Parkinson’s, dementia and epilepsy – but holders may not be aware its renewal is not automatic
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Millions of Blue Badge holders in UK risk £1,000 fines for not renewing on time.
Department of Transport and Transport Scotland data showed more than 2.8million people across England (2.57m) and Scotland (235,779) have a Blue Badge permit.
In 2019, the eligibility for Blue Badge was broadened to include individuals suffering from hidden conditions including Parkinson’s, dementia, and epilepsy. This badge gives drivers the privilege of parking closer to their destination, irrespective of whether they are driving or travelling as a passenger.
Holders of the Blue Badge will know it only has a three-year validity from the date of issue, but they are often unaware renewal is not automatic. This means an application for a replacement document should be submitted 12 weeks – or three months – before it expires to avoid any period of invalidity.
A £1,000 penalty could be given to anyone continuing to display the expired badge. This is considered as ‘misuse’, which is why Transport Scotland’s guidelines state: “Misuse of a badge is a crime. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge.”