How we assess Blue Badge applications
This page explains how we assess Blue Badge applications for people who do not qualify automatically.
If you receive an automatic qualifying benefit, you do not need an assessment — you only need to provide proof of your current award.
For all other applicants, we assess walking difficulties using Department for Transport (DfT) guidance. For further information go to Blue Badge scheme local authority guidance (England) – GOV.UK.
Pain
Pain is defined as excessive pain during or after walking.
Breathlessness
Breathlessness can be caused by walking or linked to diagnosed respiratory or cardiac conditions.
Distance you can walk
Department for Transport guidance suggests:
- under 30 metres – you are likely to be eligible
- 30 to 80 metres – you may be eligible if other severe difficulties exist
- over 80 metres – you are unlikely to be eligible unless other significant factors are present
Walking speed
The definitions of walking speed are:
- brisk – more than 90m/min
- normal – 61 to 90m/min
- slow – 40 to 60m/min
- very slow – less than 40m/min
Duration
Walking for under one minute suggests very considerable difficulty.
Manner of walking
Balance, coordination, posture and gait are considered.
Walking aids
Use of aids is considered but does not automatically determine eligibility.
Outdoor walking ability
Ability to cope with slopes, uneven ground and real-world environments.
Risk of serious harm when walking
Applicants may qualify if they have an enduring (3+ years) disability and are at risk of serious harm or may pose a risk to others during a journey. Examples include:
- unexpected physical aggression
- refusing to walk, dropping to the ground
- running off or wandering into dangerous areas
- ignoring instructions due to impairment
- severe anxiety, fear of busy or open spaces
- behaviour that could cause harm to self or others