Disabled BadgeThe friendly Blue Badge guide

What documents and evidence you need for a Blue Badge

Have these ready before you start and the application goes much more smoothly.

In short

To apply for a Blue Badge you need proof of identity (such as a passport, birth certificate or driving licence), proof of address (such as a council tax bill or government letter), and proof of any qualifying benefit. You also need a recent digital photo. For an assessed application, supporting medical evidence about how your condition affects you is very helpful.

What you always need

  • Proof of identity: passport, birth or marriage certificate, or driving licence.
  • Proof of address: a recent council tax bill, or a letter from a government department.
  • A recent digital photo of your head and shoulders.
  • Your National Insurance number, if you have one.
  • Your existing badge details, if you are renewing.

If you qualify through a benefit

  • Your PIP, DLA, War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement or Armed Forces compensation award letter showing the rate and points.

If you are assessed on your condition

There is no fixed list, but helpful evidence includes letters from your GP, consultant or therapy team, details of your medication and treatment, and a clear description of how far and how easily you can walk, or how journeys affect you. See discretionary eligibility.

Quality over quantity

One clear letter that explains the real impact of your condition is worth more than a pile of unrelated documents. Focus on evidence that shows how your day-to-day mobility or journeys are affected.

Frequently asked questions

What proof of address is accepted?

Usually a recent council tax bill or a letter from a government department. [CONFIRM] the exact list with your council if your situation is unusual.

Do I need medical evidence?

If you qualify automatically through a benefit, often not. If you are assessed on your condition, supporting medical evidence helps a great deal.

Last updated: 12 June 2026. We review our guides regularly, but rules change, so always confirm with the official source for your nation.

Our sources

Related guides

How to apply for a Blue Badge, step by stepA clear, step-by-step guide to applying for a Blue Badge: what to have ready, how to apply online, and what happens after you submit.Discretionary eligibility and how it is assessedIf you do not qualify automatically, you can still get a Blue Badge based on how your condition affects you. Here is how the assessment works.How much does a Blue Badge cost?What a Blue Badge costs in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, why it differs, and a warning about third-party sites that overcharge.