Blue Badge Toll Exemptions: Complete Guide 2025
Holding a Blue Badge offers vital parking concessions for disabled drivers, but did you know it often grants free or discounted travel on many of the UK's toll roads and bridges?
Important Rule: It's Not Automatic
â ī¸ You Must Register First
Unlike parking on double yellow lines, simply displaying your badge at a toll booth usually isn't enough. For most automated toll roads (like Dartford Crossing or Mersey Gateway), you must register your vehicle in advance to qualify for the exemption.
Major Toll Road Exemptions
đ Dartford Crossing (Dart Charge) Free
Vehicles tax-exempt due to disability (VED class 'Disabled') are automatically exempt. You do not need to register specifically with Dart Charge, as they check the DVLA database.
Note: If you only have a Blue Badge but pay road tax, you are NOT exempt.
đŖī¸ M6 Toll (Midlands) Free (with pass)
Blue Badge holders can apply for an M6 Toll Mobility Exemption Pass. It costs ÂŖ7 for administration but allows free travel for the pass period.
Without the pass, you must pay the full toll. You cannot just show your badge at the booth.
Apply for M6 Toll Exemption âđ Humber Bridge Free
Drivers who are exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) due to disability can cross for free. You must register in advance to get an exemption smart card.
đ Mersey Gateway & Silver Jubilee Free (Registration ÂŖ5)
Blue Badge holders can cross for unlimited trips if they register. There is a ÂŖ5 one-off registration fee.
đī¸ London Congestion Charge 100% Discount
Blue Badge holders can register for a 100% discount on the Congestion Charge. You must pay a ÂŖ10 annual registration fee.
ULEZ Note: The Blue Badge does not exempt you from ULEZ charges. Your car must meet the emissions standards or you (or your nominated driver) must pay.
Other Locations
- Tyne Tunnels: Free for VED exempt vehicles (must register).
- Tamar Bridge: Free vouchers available for those on higher rate disability benefits.
- Itchen Bridge: Free for local disabled residents (with Smart Card).
- Clifton Suspension Bridge: Unlimited crossings for ÂŖ10/year for concessionary card holders.
Checklist Before You Travel
- Check specifically for the bridge/tunnel you plan to use.
- Apply for exemption at least 3 weeks before your trip.
- Ensure your road tax class is correct (Tax Class 'Disabled') if relying on DVLA checks.
- Carry your Blue Badge with you, even if the system is automated.