People with conditions including ADHD, autism, epilepsy and chronic fatigue may be eligible for a Blue Badge, even if they do not have an obvious physical disability.
Millions of people across the UK could be missing out on a Blue Badge because they do not realise that eligibility extends beyond visible mobility problems.
Around three million people in the UK currently have a Blue Badge, while approximately three million more could potentially be entitled to one but have not applied, according to figures cited in research from used car dealership Big Motoring World.
What is a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge scheme was introduced in 1970 to help disabled people park closer to their destinations. Its eligibility rules now cover a wider range of needs, including some that may not be immediately apparent to other motorists.
The scheme helps disabled people park closer to their destinations, making everyday journeys easier for those who face difficulties walking or travelling safely.
But eligibility can extend to people with certain hidden disabilities and health conditions, as well as some young children who need specialist medical equipment.
Car expert Ian Hajyzamanali, from Big Motoring World, has outlined some of the less widely known circumstances that could make someone eligible, taken from the Gov.uk Blue Badge stats.
This afternoon we’ve been with friends and colleagues in Blackpool for the Disability Forum - discussing Blue Badge spaces, hospital transport & buses - and there was Ice cream !! Of course there was it’s the seaside !! 🍦 @povertytruthnet @DisabilityFirst https://t.co/rBFKEJMoYk
— Disability Equality North West (@DIsabilityNW) August 20, 2025
Who can apply for a Blue Badge?
A Blue Badge can help people who have difficulty walking or who face other qualifying challenges when making journeys.
The top five local authorities by total number of valid Blue Badges are:
- Kent, 92,000
- Lancashire, 79,000
- Hertfordshire, 78,000
- Essex, 76,000
- Staffordshire, 74,000
Head of Marketing, Sarah Jenkins at My Car Reg Check said: "While larger areas will naturally tend to have higher totals, the per-head figures show where Blue Badge use is most concentrated and where demand appears to be strongest."
Hajyzamanali adds: “A Blue Badge can be issued to individuals with mobility issues that make walking difficult or impossible, including those who cannot walk far without experiencing extreme pain or fatigue.
"It can also be issued to people who are registered blind, those receiving Disability Living Allowance, or certain levels of Personal Independence Payment. Parents or carers of young children with health or mobility needs may also be eligible.
"It’s important to remember that not every disability is visible, so it is vital that motorists avoid making assumptions about Blue Badge owners.”
Eligibility depends on a person's individual circumstances and the relevant criteria. Having a particular diagnosis does not automatically mean someone will qualify.
Six lesser-known conditions and circumstances that could qualify
1. Severe epilepsy
People who experience unpredictable seizures may be eligible if their condition affects their ability to travel safely or causes significant difficulties when walking.
The impact of the condition and the person's circumstances will be considered as part of the assessment.
2. Autism and ADHD
Some people with autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may qualify if their condition affects their ability to undertake journeys safely.
This can include difficulties linked to cognitive, sensory or behavioural needs.
A diagnosis alone does not guarantee a Blue Badge. The applicant must meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
3. Mental health conditions
Some people whose mental health causes extreme distress when they are in public places may be eligible if this substantially affects their ability to make journeys.
The effect on the person's journey, rather than simply the name of their condition, is an important consideration.
4. Heart conditions
People with conditions such as heart failure or arrhythmia may qualify if their symptoms make walking distances difficult, including because of pain or fatigue.
Eligibility depends on the impact of the condition and whether the relevant criteria are met.
5. Chronic pain and fatigue
People do not necessarily have to use a walking aid to qualify for a Blue Badge.
Those with persistent pain or fatigue conditions, such as fibromyalgia or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), may be eligible if their symptoms meet the scheme's requirements.
6. Young children who need bulky medical equipment
Some children aged three or under may qualify if they need bulky medical equipment that is difficult to carry, or must remain close to a vehicle because they need life-saving treatment or could need to be taken for it urgently.
The rules recognise that some families face additional challenges when travelling with young children who have significant medical needs.
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How do you apply for a Blue Badge?
Applications are handled by the relevant local council. Some people qualify under specific criteria, while others need their circumstances assessed.
For applicants whose eligibility is not automatic, the council may need further information or an assessment before making a decision.
Big Motoring World notes that the less widely known circumstances outlined in its advice require an assessment by the local council and cannot simply be applied for online.
Anyone considering an application should check the official Government guidance and their council's process to establish which criteria apply to them.
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