When you will get a decision
We aim to give you an initial decision within 12 to 16 weeks of receiving your completed application and all the evidence we need.
We process applications, reviews and appeals in the order we receive them. We assess terminal illness applications first when supporting medical evidence confirms that the applicant has less than 12 months to live.
How you will receive updates
You cannot track your application online.
We will contact you by email, telephone or post when we have an update or decision. We cannot give you a separate progress update if you call or email us.
You do not need to contact us to ask about progress. This helps our team spend more time assessing applications.
Make sure you have sent your documents
We need the following before we can assess your application:
- a recent passport-style photo
- proof of identity
- proof of address
- supporting medical evidence explaining your difficulties with walking
Missing evidence will delay your application.
Our Customer Service Centre cannot confirm whether your evidence gives us enough information. The Blue Badge team will contact you after reviewing it.
If you need a mobility assessment
We may ask you to attend an Independent Mobility Assessment to help us understand how your condition affects your mobility.
We currently have a long waiting list for assessments because of high demand and limited assessor availability.
If your mobility has changed since you applied, or you have more medical evidence about your mobility difficulties, you can send it to the Blue Badge team.
Useful evidence includes recent reports from:
- a consultant
- a specialist
- a physiotherapist
- an occupational therapist
The reports should explain how your condition affects your mobility.
We will review the evidence. If it gives us enough information, we may be able to make a decision without an assessment. You may still need an assessment.
If we approve your application
We will contact you by email or post to ask you to pay £10.
Once you pay, we will order your badge. You should receive it within 10 to 12 working days of payment.
If we refuse your application
We will contact you by email or post to explain our decision and how to request a review or appeal.
To challenge the decision, follow the review or appeal process in our email or letter.
Send additional evidence
To send more medical evidence about your mobility difficulties, email car.badges@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.
If you need help sending evidence, call 0300 300 8000.
We will contact you when we have an update or decision. We cannot give you a separate progress update if you call or email us.