Blue Badge holders could avoid new £195 car tax by making simple check

Drivers with Blue Badges could avoid the recent vehicle tax hikes by doing one simple check. As of April 1, road tax for post-April 2017 registered cars saw an increase in VED - road tax - leaping from £5 to £195 annually.

The specific increase depends on the registration date and the type of fuel used.

Electric vehicle (EV) owners, who previously enjoyed exemption from road tax, are now brought into the tax. EVs registered starting from April 2025 will need to pay the lowest band at £10 in their first year before graduating to the standard rate, which is also applicable to EVs registered after April 2017.

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Blue Badge holders can avoid these taxation changes – at least for those who've registered an EV in the past eight years. They're potentially off the hook if they claim certain benefits:.

Higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

Enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Armed Forces Independence Payment

War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement

Those with some mental health conditions will need to reach out directly to their local council. The official advice states: "If you have a mental condition that means you lack awareness about the danger of traffic, you cannot apply online. You should phone your local council's Blue Badge team for a paper application form."

Those who might not directly qualify for the Blue Badge scheme should be prepared to potentially undergo a mobility assessment and meet with a healthcare professional.

The processing time for Blue Badge applications or renewals isn't fixed, it could take up to 12 weeks.

A Blue Badge is valid for use across numerous European countries. However, when using your Blue Badge in England or Wales, you'll need a parking clock, which comes with your badge.

The Timer Clock is a plastic gadget with adjustable hands to show your arrival time when parked. Applications for a Blue Badge should be made online via your local council, along with a recent digital head and shoulders photo - you can take this yourself.

You'll also need a photo or scan of your ID (like a birth certificate, passport or driving licence), proof of address such as a Council Tax bill or government letter - alternatively, your local council can check the Electoral Register. If you're receiving any benefits, you'll need evidence of these too.

Keep your National Insurance number and Blue Badge details handy if you're reapplying. Once you've applied, your local council will process your application and notify you of their decision.