The European Union (EU) parking permit, commonly referred to as the Blue Badge, enables the permit holder to park the vehicle in designated on-street accessible parking bay free of charge for an unlimited duration unless otherwise stated.

A person with a disability requires access to a disabled parking bay because of its size and access to amenities and facilities. An accessible parking bay is larger than the standard parking space which enables a driver or passenger to transfer into their wheelchair or alighting from their vehicle.

The European Union (EU) parking permit is officially issued on behalf of the Department of Transport by the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI). Acting as an authorised issuing body, the DDAI is responsible for processing applications, verifying eligibility, and distributing the permits to qualified individuals with disabilities, ensuring compliance with both national and EU regulations that govern accessible parking privileges.