ApprovaVisa / Photo essentials

Blue Badge photo checker

For your own application or for someone you care for. Check the file first, then review the photo against what councils usually ask for.

Create a Blue Badge photo Or check a photo you already have

Photo review / UK Blue BadgeOriginal preserved

1Choose your route

2Check the file

3Review the photo

Photo inspection

Your original, in focus

Digital

Choose a photo to see
its file checks here

Dimensions and file size

We’ll measure pixels and bytes against the UK passport standard, without resizing your file.

File checks do not measure face geometry, lighting or editing history. Your council makes the acceptance decision.

Now review the photograph

These checks need your eyes. Review each item against the original before applying.

0 / 5 reviewed

Within your council’s time limitPublished limits range from 3 to 12 months. No filters, editing or AI enhancement.Plain light background, only youCream or light grey, with no shadows on the face or the wall. No other person, hand or object in the shot.Head and shoulders, face visibleFacing forward with eyes visible. Headwear only for religious or medical reasons.No glare on glassesPrescription glasses are usually fine if the eyes can be seen clearly.Uncropped originalHead, shoulders and upper body, taken by someone else at eye level. Don’t crop it into a 35×45 mm print template.

Choose your photo to begin the manual review.

Create a Blue Badge photo

Independent checks before you apply

This is a file pre-check and a guided visual review, not an official council checker. Your council decides acceptance. A successful file check does not assess face geometry or prove that the photo is recent or unedited.

Does a Blue Badge photo have to be a passport photo?

No. GOV.UK asks for a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders. A photo that meets the UK passport standard meets what most councils ask for.

Can I take the photo for someone I care for?

Yes. Sit them in front of a plain light wall facing a window, stand back, and hold the phone at their eye level. The checker reads the photo on your device.

Source checked October 28, 2026: GOV.UK. Council rules vary; check your own council’s page before you apply.