DWP - full list of benefits that qualify for Blue Badge

The Blue Badge scheme helps disabled people park closer to their destination and can make everyday journeys significantly easier.

Here's who qualifies automatically.

You automatically qualify if you receive one of these benefits

According to the guidance on GOV.UK: "You automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you are aged 3 or over and at least one of the following applies" before listing the qualifying benefits and circumstances.

You may be entitled to a Blue Badge without further assessment if you receive:

• Higher-rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with 8 points or more under the 'moving around' activity because you cannot walk more than 50 metres
• War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement
• A qualifying payment under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
• The mobility component of PIP with 10 points under descriptor E for 'planning and following journeys' because you are unable to undertake any journey due to overwhelming psychological distress
• If you are registered blind (severely sight impaired)

Not everyone on PIP qualifies automatically

People receiving PIP for other mobility reasons may still qualify for a Blue Badge, but they won't automatically receive one.

The guidance explains: "If you have any score other than 10 points under descriptor E, in the 'planning and following journeys' activity of PIP you may still be eligible for a Blue Badge, but you do not automatically qualify."

It adds: "You will have to provide evidence to demonstrate your eligibility which will be assessed as part of your application."

You may still qualify even if you don't receive these benefits

Even without one of the qualifying DWP benefits, your local council may award a Blue Badge if you:

• Cannot walk or can only walk with assistance
• Find walking extremely difficult because of pain or breathlessness
• Have a life-limiting illness and an SR1 form
• Have a hidden disability that makes journeys unsafe or extremely difficult
• Frequently experience overwhelming psychological distress when travelling
• Have a child under three with serious medical needs requiring emergency access to a vehicle

The Government says "Your local council will decide if you are eligible for a badge."

It also warns: "They cannot start the assessment process until they have all the necessary evidence. It may take 12 weeks or longer to assess your application."

What you'll need to apply

Applications can be made online through the Government's Blue Badge service.

You'll usually need:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of address
• A recent passport-style photo
• National Insurance number (if you have one)
• Contact details
• Proof of your qualifying benefit if applicable

If you're applying because you receive PIP or DLA, you'll also need your latest award letter showing your mobility entitlement and assessment scores.

Those applying without an automatically qualifying benefit may also need to provide supporting medical evidence, including diagnosis letters, prescriptions or details from healthcare professionals.

The Government says applicants can upload documents online or send copies to their local council if preferred.