Find out how to apply for a Blue Badge, the documents you'll need and answers to frequently asked questions.
At the moment, Blue Badge applications can take up to 12 weeks to complete - after we’ve received all required documents.
Some applications are quicker than others, depending on how they are assessed:
If your application is taking time, this does not mean there is a problem. It is normal for some stages to involve a period where you do not hear from us.
We will contact you if:
You do not need to contact us for updates during this time.
Due to temporary staffing pressures, some applications are taking longer than usual to reach the assessment stage. This mainly affects applications that need to be checked by an officer or assessor.
We understand waiting can be frustrating. Please be reassured that your application is still in the queue and will be processed as soon as possible.
If you applied less than 12 weeks ago, you do not need to contact us for an update.
We’re aware that there is currently a backlog of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) decisions with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). We know this can be worrying if your Blue Badge is due to expire.
If your PIP award is delayed, you do not need to wait for the decision to apply for a Blue Badge renewal.
You can apply instead under:
You’ll need to provide medical or supporting evidence. Applying this way is often quicker than waiting for a PIP decision.
If you later hear from the DWP while your application is being assessed, you can let us know.
Please apply online whenever possible and contact us online in the first instance. This will help us keep within our timescales and ensure the best customer service delivery. We appreciate your patience.
Applications can take up to 12 weeks to process once all required documents have been received. Your application may be delayed if you do not submit the correct documents. The information we request needs to be included before we can start to assess your application.
If you have applied less than 12 weeks ago, please do not contact us to chase your application. This allows our team to focus on processing applications as quickly as possible.
To apply, you will need:
We will contact you if we need anything further.
If we haven’t contacted you, it means:
Some applicants need an eligibility assessment as part of the process. This helps ensure decisions are fair and consistent.
If an assessment is needed:
There is no need to contact us to ask whether you will need an assessment — we’ll let you know.
Once approved by an officer, your Blue Badge will be ordered as quickly as possible.
Please note:
Delivery times can vary depending on postal services.
You can request a replacement for a lost, stolen, or damaged Blue Badge.
There is a £10 fee. The fee does not apply if you have a crime reference number for a stolen badge.
It is the badge holder’s responsibility to ensure their Blue Badge is renewed before it expires.
We usually send a renewal reminder explaining what you need to do.
If you have not received a renewal letter 4 weeks before your badge expires, please contact us so we can check your details.
Each renewal is assessed as a new application to make sure badges are only issued to people who meet the current criteria.
You can use a valid foreign Blue Badge in Brighton & Hove, but you must tell us before you visit.
To notify us, call 01273 296 622 and provide:
If we’re not told in advance, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
You only need to contact us if:
If your application is within the published timescales and you haven’t been asked for anything further, you do not need to contact us.
To contact us, you can:
You can also visit us in person at one of our help desks in Brighton and Hove.
We’re here to help, and we ask that all contact is respectful so we can support everyone fairly.