Scotland’s Low Emission Zones – information for Blue Badge holders

The first of four Low Emission Zones (LEZ) is now being enforced in Scotland.

From June 1, 2023, if you are driving in Glasgow’s LEZ then you must have a compliant vehicle or face a penalty. Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh city centre LEZs will follow.

However, there are national exemptions, including for Blue Badge holders.

If your vehicle is already compliant, you do not need to register for a Blue Badge Exemption. Check if your vehicle is already compliant using the vehicle checker.

There are several exemptions which cover vehicles being used for the purposes of disabled people:

A vehicle carrying a Blue Badge holder, including:

• A vehicle being driven by any person who is in receipt of a Blue Badge.
• A passenger in the vehicle who has been issued with a Blue Badge.
• A vehicle being driven with a Blue Badge which has been issued to an organisation.

• A vehicle registered with a 'disabled' or 'disabled passenger vehicles' tax class.

• A vehicle receiving a reduction in annual rate of vehicle excise duty because the vehicle is being used by a disabled person in receipt of personal independence payment at the standard rate.

Register for Blue Badge holder exemption

If you are a Blue Badge holder, and the vehicle you are travelling in is non-compliant and does not have disabled vehicle/disabled passenger vehicle tax class, then you will need to register for an exemption in advance of travel to the LEZ.

Blue Badge holders can register vehicles for either Long Term or One Day exemptions which will apply to all LEZs in Scotland. Exemptions can be registered for up to seven days in advance of travel and before midnight on the same day of travel.

Long term Exemption

You can register a vehicle for a long term exemption, provided the vehicle is registered to your home address. This will remain active for as long as the Blue Badge is valid unless otherwise updated on your account.

One Day Exemptions

You can also register for one day exemptions for up to two vehicles you are travelling in that day. One day exemptions can be made up to seven days before travelling.

Organisational Blue Badges

Organisations with Blue Badges can also now register their Scottish LEZ exemption accounts online. Organisations may register all the Blue Badges they hold on a single account. The number of Blue Badges held by the organisation will entitle them to that number of One Day Exemptions to be active on a single day.

Help Guide

Check out the Help Guide and Video Guide for registering your Blue Badge Exemption online.

REGISTER FOR BLUE BADGE HOLDER EXEMPTION ONLINE

Telephone Registration

For individuals unable to access the online registration system you can now call the Scottish LEZ Exemption System Telephone Registration line on 0800 328 5691 every day between 8am and 8pm.

For all you need to know head here: https://www.lowemissionzones.scot/blue-badge-exemption

 

Social media reminder and website news page article

If you drive in Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh you’ll need to be prepared for Scotland’s Low Emission Zones.

Glasgow’s LEZ is now in force and any vehicles driving in the zone must meet the minimum emission standards or face a penalty.

Exemptions may apply, including those who hold a Blue Badge.

For more information check out https://www.lowemissionzones.scot/blue-badge-exemption