There are over three million people in the UK that hold a blue badge. A warning has now been issued to blue badge holders urging them to act. In 2019, the eligibility criteria for a blue badge was broadened to include individuals with non-visible disabilities such as Parkinson's, dementia and epilepsy.
This permit allows people to park closer to their destinations when they travel as a driver or passenger. Most badge holders will know that their blue badge expires three years after it is issued. However, many might not realise that renewal isn't automatic and an application should be made 12 weeks (three months) before it expires to ensure the new permit arrives before the current one becomes invalid.
READ MORE: 'Carnage' as huge queues of fuming passengers form outside major airport READ MORE: Man swept to his death in swollen river trying to fix a telephone line If blue badge holders continue to display it after it has expired, they could face a hefty £1,000 fine. This is because showing an expired blue badge is considered 'misuse'. According to Transport Scotland guidance: "Misuse of a badge is a crime.
You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge.", reports the Daily Record . Eligibility for a blue badge is also reviewed every time a renewal application is submitted.
As explained on MyGov.Scot: "Your blue badge is not renewed automatically. You need to reapply for it every three years.
" "Your eligibility will be checked every time you reapply. This is to make sure you can.