Help with travel and transport costs for disabled people
This page gives information about help available to reduce the cost of transport if you’re disabled or a carer. Find out about Blue Badges, disabled person’s railcards and more.
You may be entitled to free or discounted travel on public transport. If you’re a driver, you may also be able to get help with road tax and parking.
On this page:
Public transport for disabled people
How to get a disabled person’s railcard
What is a disabled person’s railcard?
A disabled person’s railcard gives you one-third off the cost of rail travel. You can use it to get a discount on trains at any time of day.
If you’re travelling with an adult carer, family member or friend when using the disabled person’s railcard, they’ll get the discount too.
How much is a disabled person’s railcard?
It’s £20 for one year, for £54 if you pay for three years upfront.
Who can get a disabled person’s railcard?
You can get a disabled person’s railcard if you receive certain benefits, or if you’re registered blind or deaf.
Find out more about who is eligible for a disabled person’s railcard.
You’ll need to fill in an application form and attach proof of eligibility.
How to get a disabled person’s bus pass
Contact your local council to find out who issues disabled bus passes in your area.
Find out how to get a disabled person’s bus pass in:
How to get a disabled person’s Freedom Pass (London)
What is a disabled person’s Freedom Pass?
If you live in Greater London, you can apply to get a disabled person’s Freedom Pass.
The Freedom Pass allows you to travel for free on all underground trains and most other forms of public transport across London.
You can also travel for free on buses anywhere in the country.
Who can get a disabled person’s Freedom Pass?
You can apply for a disabled person’s Freedom Pass if you:
- Live in London.
- Have any of the statutory disabilities listed in the Transport Act 2000.
Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply for a Freedom Pass.
Travelling by car
Blue Badges
What is a Blue Badge?
Blue Badges help drivers park closer to their destination. If you have one on your car, you’re allowed to park in designated disabled parking spaces.
It can also give you exemption from some parking rules.
Who can get a Blue Badge?
You can apply for a Blue Badge if your disabilities affect your mobility. You can also apply for one if you care for a child whose disabilities affect their mobility.
Read more about the eligibility criteria for a Blue Badge.
How much is a Blue Badge?
This depends on where you live. Councils can charge for a Blue Badge. It can cost up to £10 in England and £20 in Scotland. It’s free in Wales.
How to apply for a Blue Badge
Dial-a-Ride
What is Dial-a-Ride?
Dial-a-Ride schemes are door-to-door minibus services for disabled people and people with mobility difficulties.
Dial-a-Ride is normally funded by local councils or charitable organisations, so schemes are different across the UK. Some local councils charge for the service.
Dial-a-Ride London and Ring and Ride in the West Midlands are two examples of Dial-a-Ride schemes.
How to apply for a Dial-a-Ride scheme
To find out about Dial-a-Ride schemes in your area, contact your local council.
Find your local council using your postcode.
London Taxicard
What is a London Taxicard?
The London Taxicard scheme provides door-to-door transport in London taxis at reduced fares for people with mobility difficulties.
How to apply for a London Taxicard
The eligibility rules and application process for your London Taxicard will depend on which borough of London you live in.
Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply.
Motability Scheme
What is the Motability Scheme?
You can use the Motability Scheme to lease a new affordable car, wheelchair accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair.
Who can get help from the Motability Scheme?
This scheme is available to people who are disabled and receive a benefit to help them get around.
Find out about the Motability Scheme and see if you’re eligible.
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This content was last reviewed in July 2023. We’ll review it again next year.