Blue Badge holders are reminded they must follow a three-year rule or risk breaking the law. If you fail to renew your disabled parking permit after this period, you could end up using an out-of-date badge, which carries a £1,000 penalty.
Data from the Department for Transport and Transport Scotland reveals there are currently more than 3.2 million Blue Badge holders across England and Scotland.
The criteria for obtaining a Blue Badge were expanded in 2019 to include individuals with hidden disabilities such as Parkinson's, dementia and epilepsy, enabling more people to park closer to their destinations whether they're driving or travelling as a passenger.
A Blue Badge becomes invalid three years after being issued.
However, renewal doesn't happen automatically, meaning those affected must ensure they submit an application for a fresh pass every three years.
Applications must actually be lodged 12 weeks, or three months, before expiry to ensure the new permit arrives before the current one becomes void.
Using an expired Blue Badge is considered "misuse". Transport Scotland guidance states: "Misuse of a badge is a crime. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge."
Eligibility for a Blue Badge is also reviewed each time a renewal application is submitted.
Guidance on GOV.UK says: "You must reapply for a Blue Badge before your current one expires. How you pay depends on your local council. They'll usually make a decision within 12 weeks."
A Blue Badge can cost up to £10 in England and Northern Ireland, £20 in Scotland, and is free in Wales. You can reapply for your Blue Badge on the GOV.UK site.
You will need a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders. You'll also need a photo or scan of your:
