Blue Badge fraud and misuse

The badge is for the badge holder only – it’s a criminal offence to let anyone else use it when you’re not in the car. It must only be used when the person it belongs to is in the vehicle.

You must not let people use your badge on your behalf unless you’re with them, even for things like shopping or collecting parcels for you. We investigate and prosecute Blue Badge misuse and fraud. If you’re found guilty of misusing a Blue Badge you could be fined up to £1,000. If your Blue Badge is confiscated, it will only be returned following a full investigation. The badge remains the property of the issuing local council. They can ask for the badge to be returned if it is being misused.

• A disabled badge must never be used by family or friends to gain parking concessions for themselves.
• Never make a copy or counterfeit of the Blue Badge.
• The badge is for the use and benefit of the registered badge holder. It must only be displayed if the badge holder is leaving the car where it is parked, or returning to it where it is parked, or both.
• A disabled badge must be returned to the issuing authority after it has expired. Retention and use of an expired badge is a criminal offence.
• If someone is doing something for the badge holder, they may not use the Blue Badge unless the badge holder is with them.

We find that most misuse of badges is carried out by carers, be they family members, friends or even social workers. It is very important that the badge is only used when it is needed for the badge holder directly.

The Blue Badge scheme: rights and responsibilities

Report misuse

Let us know if you think someone is using a Blue Badge they are not eligible for.