By Linda Howard

Copyright dailyrecord

The latest statistics from the Department for Transport and Transport Scotland show there are currently more than 3.2 million Blue Badge holders across England and Scotland (235,779). The Scottish figure may be much higher as the most recent data was published nearly four years ago in November 2021. The eligibility criteria for a Blue Badge was extended in 2019 to include individuals with non-visible disabilities such as Parkinson’s, dementia and epilepsy to help more people park closer to the places they want to go when they travel as a driver, or a passenger. Most users will be aware their Blue Badge has an expiry date of three years from the point of issue, however, many may not be aware that renewal is not automatic and an application should be made 12 weeks (three months) before it expires to ensure the new permit arrives before the current one is no longer valid. Blue Badge holders could face a hefty £1,000 fine if they continue to display it after it has expired. This is because displaying an out of date Blue Badge is classed as ‘misuse’. Transport Scotland guidance states: “Misuse of a badge is a crime. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge.” If your Blue Badge is due to expire before the end of this year, submit your renewal form by the end of this month to ensure it arrives before the expiry date. Thew new badge won’t be valid until the old one has expired (it has a start date) so you can tuck it away somewhere safe knowing it will be a smooth swap. Eligibility for a Blue Badge is also reviewed every time a renewal application is submitted. Guidance on MyGov.Scot explains: “Your Blue Badge is not renewed automatically. You need to reapply for it every 3 years. “Your eligibility will be checked every time you reapply. This is to make sure you can still get a Blue Badge. Your local council processes your application and decides if you can get a Blue Badge. “You should reapply 12 weeks before your badge expires.” A Blue Badge costs £20 in Scotland, up to £10 in England and is free in Wales. You can reapply for your Blue Badge on the GOV.UK site here. You will need a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders. You’ll also need a photo or scan of your: You will also need to know: You can start the application online and save the information you enter if you need to look for the required documents. You can easily return to it later and complete the process. You should contact your local council if there’s a change to your