What is the Blue European Badge Scheme?

The Blue European Badge Scheme provides a European arrangement of parking concessions for people with mobility problems who travel either as drivers or passengers and for registered blind people.

The blue badge replaces orange badge which could only be used in Great Britain. The blue badge is plastic coated/laminated. The new badge does not require the name of the holder to appear on the front, just on the reverse. This meets the personal safety concerns that some people have about displaying their names.

The scheme allows badge holders to park closer to their destination, e.g. shops, restaurants, public buildings. The European concessions apply only to on street parking although some local authorities also waive charges in the "off street" car parks.

NB - There are some exceptions to the use of the concessions;

Central London Boroughs

Some Airports

Certain town centres where vehicular access is prohibited

To renew or apply for a blue badge in Kent there is now a central number 01622 605020 this line is always busy. We advise patience and trying this number later in the day.

Motability

If you are receiving the high rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance and have more than three years to run of your benefit you can use your benefit towards the hire or purchase of a car through the motability scheme. Most people go for the hire option, this is a three year agreement with mileage per year. Your car has to be kept in good condition and order. Your insurance will be paid and you will have no servicing bills. You can also use your mobility component to purchase an electric wheelchair.

If you have the mobility component Disability Living Allowance higher rate don't forget to apply for your road tax exemption.