The Blue Badge Scheme is a national scheme that allows badge holders to park closer to their destination, but the national concessions apply only to on-street parking. The scheme helps you travel independently, as either a driver or a passenger. Transport Scotland is responsible for the legislation setting out the framework for the scheme and supports local authorities to deliver the scheme.
How to apply
You can apply online:
Blue badge applications can only be made online. You can grant permission for another individual to apply on your behalf, for example a support worker, friend or family member. Correspondence can go directly to you or your preferred point of contact.
All applicants will need to supply the following:
- Proof of identify (passport, driving licence, birth or marriage certificate).
- Proof of address (council tax bill or utility bill from the last 12 months).
- A recent digital photo (or a photo that can be scanned and uploaded) clearly showing your head and shoulders.
- National insurance number.
- Any proof of receipt of benefit or evidence you wish to submit in support of your application. See the table below for more details.
Payment is taken at the time of application and the cost is £20 to issue a badge. If your application is declined you will be refunded via the original payment method.
| Eligibility criteria | Supporting documents required |
|---|---|
| Registered blind | Certificate of Visual Impairment (or confirm you are registered with NESS) |
| Higher rate mobility – Disability Living Allowance | Letter of entitlement dated within the last 12 months |
| Personal Independence Payments and have been awarded 8 points or more in the Moving Around category or awarded 12 points in the Planning and Following Journeys category | Letter of entitlement dated within the last 12 months |
| War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement | Letter of entitlement |
| Armed Forces and Reserved Forces (Compensation) Scheme | Letter of entitlement |
| Terminal illness | DS1500 form if you have received it or confirm the name of your healthcare professional |
| Walking difficulties | Any relevant correspondence you wish to submit, details of any walking aids you use |
| You are applying on behalf of a child under 3 who needs to be close to a vehicle | Details of medical condition and equipment required |
| Cognitive impairment | Letter of diagnosis from medical professional and details of benefits you are receiving |
Please note if you are in receipt of Attendance Allowance you would not be automatically eligible for a Blue Badge.
Applying under the Cognitive Impairment Criteria
In 2017 Transport for Scotland revised and extended the eligibility criteria to allow people who pose a risk to themselves or others in traffic to apply for a disabled person’s parking badge, provided they meet the criteria.
The eligibility criteria was extended to:
- (a) A person who has a mental disorder within the meaning in the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003,
- (b) who receives specified social security benefits at specified rates, and
- (c) who lacks awareness of danger from traffic, which is likely to compromise their safety, or the safety of others, as a result.
If you are applying under these criteria the option on your online application will be:
A diagnosed cognitive impairment and lack awareness of danger from traffic and are likely to compromise your safety or the safety of others.
As part of your application we will require a healthcare or social work or teaching professional who has seen the applicant at some time over the last 12 months and who is not the applicant’s GP to complete a Healthcare Professional Diagnosis Form. This can be completed and uploaded by the applicant or on their behalf as part of the online application or emailed directly to customerapplications@aberdeencity.gov.uk
More information
See the Frequently Asked Questions about Blue Badge applications page for more information.