How long does it take to process an application?
Once all supporting documentation has been provided and the fee has been paid, an application can take up to 8 weeks for those who need an independent assessment and for applications under the automatic criteria these will be processed within 10 working days.
What do I do if I need to re-apply for my Blue Badge?
If you have provided an email address, an email will be issued to you about 12 weeks before your current badge will expire inviting you to re-apply. It is faster and easier to re-apply online . You can however request a paper application form by phone on 01546 605517 or in person at your local customer service point or email bluebadges@argyll-bute.gov.uk to request an application. Your application cannot be processed until 8 weeks from when your current badge expires but the reminder email will allow you to prepare your application.
Please note: you will need to make a new application when re-applying for your badge.
For those needing assessed, we recommend that you apply for the replacement badge as early as possible before the expiry date to allow processing time and to prevent delay, as these can take 6 - 8 weeks to process. Applications assessed automatically and those requiring no further assessment should apply around 4 weeks in advance.
Can an Organisation apply for a Blue Badge?
Organisations blue badges are intended for those organisations whose primary reason for operating is to provide care and transportation for individuals who would qualify for an individual blue badge in their own right. Argyll and Bute Council will decide whether the organisation has a clear need for an organisational badge, rather than using the individual badges of the people it is transporting. An organisational badge must only be displayed when someone who would be eligible for a blue badge in their own right is being transported.
Examples of organisations that may be eligible include residential care homes, hospices or Local Authority Transport Department.
Community transport providers, private hire vehicle and taxi operators do not fit the criteria as they are not care providers and only in exceptional circumstances would they be successful for an organisational blue badge. Any disabled person making use of community transport, taxi or private hire vehicles would be expected to use their own individual blue badge - and allow their driver to display it on their dashboard while they are in the vehicle or being dropped off.
If you believe your organisation fits the criteria for an organisational blue badge and you wish to apply or renew an existing organisational blue badge, please contact the team using the contact information at the top of the page.
Please note, when making an application for an organisational blue badge, you may be asked for evidence that the vehicle(s) on which the badge will be displayed are licensed under the Disabled Passenger Vehicle taxation class. You will be asked for information such as the number of qualifying disabled people being cared for, the type of vehicle being used to carry passengers and whether the vehicle is adapted. Proof of address and proof of ownership of the vehicle will also be required.
What do I need to provide along with my application?
Once you have completed your application form either online or using a paper form, the following documents must also be provided:
All applicants must provide:
- a passport-style photograph
- proof of qualifying benefit (if applicable)
- proof of identity
- proof of residency
- the Blue Badge fee (£20)
If you are applying under the mental disorder or cognitive impairment category you will also need to provide a letter confirming the diagnosis of the mental disorder or cognitive impairment, unless you are re-applying and the condition you have will not improve.
For a child under 3, you will also need to provide a letter of confirmation from your consultant or health professional.
If you are applying as you have a disability in both arms, you will also need to provide a letter from your consultant or health professional confirming that you have a severe disability in both arms and that you are either unable to operate all types of parking meter, or have considerable difficulty operating all or some types of parking meter.
If you have applied online you can email your documents to bluebadges@argyll-bute.gov.uk
What happens after you apply?
Applications can take up to 8 weeks to process. Once your application has been approved, all evidence submitted and the fee paid, we will request your Blue Badge from the National Centre.
This will be delivered to your home along with the rights and responsibilities of a blue badge holder information booklet and time clock for use if travelling in England and Wales