PIP, DLA and Blue Badge explained

What is a Blue Badge?

A Blue Badge allows disabled people (or vehicles transporting them) to park closer to their destination. This includes parking in designated disabled bays, on yellow lines for up to 3 hours in England, and in other locations where parking would otherwise be restricted.

The badge belongs to the person, not the vehicle — it can be used in any car.

Automatic eligibility linked to benefits

You automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you receive:

• The higher rate of the DLA mobility component
• The PIP enhanced rate mobility component (scoring 8 points or more under the moving around activity)
• A War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement

Eligibility without automatic qualification

Even if you do not receive one of the benefits listed above, you may still qualify for a Blue Badge if you have a permanent and substantial disability that causes very considerable difficulty when walking. You apply through your local council, which carries out an assessment.

This means people who receive the standard rate PIP mobility component, or who receive no mobility benefit at all, can still apply and may qualify based on their walking difficulties.

For children

Children aged 2 and under are not eligible for a Blue Badge. Children aged 3 and over who receive the higher rate DLA mobility component automatically qualify. Younger children with specific medical conditions may also qualify — check GOV.UK for current guidance.

How to apply

Blue Badge applications are made through your local council, not through the DWP. The council manages the scheme and processes applications. Apply online via GOV.UK.

Official source

To apply: GOV.UK — Apply for or renew a Blue Badge