Let's be honest, navigating London's road charging schemes can feel like a labyrinth, and the new Silvertown Tunnel joining its older sibling, Blackwall, means even more to consider. For Blue Badge holders, there's a valuable 100% exemption available, but the application process can sometimes feel a bit… well, let's just say "unnecessarily complicated."
Many Blue Badge holders, or those who drive them, run into a snag trying to link the exemption to their existing London Road User Charging account. The common frustration? TfL's system is quite particular about whose name is on the account when applying for this specific discount.
The Golden Rule: The Blue Badge Holder is the Account Holder
Here's the crucial takeaway that often catches people out: The 100% discount for Blue Badge holders must be applied for through a London Road User Charging account set up IN THE NAME OF THE BLUE BADGE HOLDER.
It doesn't matter if you're the main driver, the spouse, or the family member managing all the household bills. For this specific exemption, TfL needs to see the Blue Badge holder's name as the primary account holder.
Why This Confusion Happens
Often, people try to add the Blue Badge holder's details as a "secondary user" or try to upload the badge onto an account already registered in someone else's name (e.g., the driver's). The system, designed to prevent fraudulent use of Blue Badges, sees this mismatch and will likely reject the application, asking for the details to be submitted by the main account holder – which isn't possible if the main account holder isn't the Blue Badge holder!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Smooth Application
To ensure a fuss-free exemption for the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels, follow these steps:
If You've Already Applied Incorrectly:
You'll likely receive a rejection and a refund of the £10 registration fee. Wait for this to process. Trying to push it through will only delay things.
Create a BRAND NEW Account (in the Blue Badge Holder's Name):
Go to the official TfL London Road User Charging website.
Crucially, start a new registration process using the full name and date of birth of the Blue Badge holder. This is paramount.
You can use your own email address if you manage their affairs, but the personal details must match the Blue Badge.
Apply for the "Blue Badge 100% Discount":
Once the new account is active, navigate to the exemptions/discounts section.
Select the "Blue Badge" exemption.
Upload Clear Photos: You'll need to upload clear, legible photos of both the front and back of the Blue Badge.
Proof of ID: You'll also need to provide proof of identity for the Blue Badge holder (e.g., passport, driving license). Ensure the name on the ID matches the Blue Badge and the new account.
Pay the £10 Registration Fee: This is a one-off fee, not an annual charge.
Register Your Vehicle(s):
Once the Blue Badge exemption is approved (TfL will notify you, usually within 10 working days, but sometimes quicker), you can register up to two vehicles on this account.
Add the vehicle(s) that the Blue Badge holder will be travelling in when using the tunnels.
Important: Once your vehicle(s) are linked to an active Blue Badge exemption, they will be recognised by the tunnel ANPR cameras as exempt.
Managing the Account (Optional):
If you're the primary driver or manager, you can add yourself as an "Authorised User" to the Blue Badge holder's account. This allows you to manage payments, check exemptions, and receive notifications.
If you had the exempt vehicle on your own Auto Pay account, it's a good idea to remove it once the Blue Badge exemption is confirmed. While the exemption should override any charges, it simplifies things and avoids potential confusion.
In Summary
While the system might seem a bit convoluted, remember that it's designed to protect the integrity of the Blue Badge scheme. By setting up the account directly in the name of the Blue Badge holder, you're aligning with TfL's requirements and paving the way for smooth, charge-free journeys through the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels.
there are several relevant links on the TfL website. Because the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnel charges are part of the same system as the Congestion Charge, you use the same "Blue Badge 100% Discount" application process.
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The most important link for you is the "Before you begin" page, which explicitly states that an account must be in the Blue Badge holder's name.
1. The Main Application Page
TfL: Blue Badge Discount – Before You Begin
Crucial Note from this page: "Before you apply for the Blue Badge discount, you need to set up a London Road User Charging account... in the name of the Blue Badge holder."
2. If You are Applying for Someone Else
If you are managing the account for the Blue Badge holder, TfL provides a specific page for "proxy" applications:
TfL: Apply for Blue Badge Discount on behalf of someone else
This page includes the Authorisation Form you may need to download and sign if you want to be the one legally managing the account while keeping it in their name.
3. General Information on Tunnel Charges & Exemptions
TfL: Paying the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels Charge
This page confirms that Blue Badge holders receive a 100% discount but must be registered with TfL to get it. It also explains that if you already have an active Blue Badge discount for the Congestion Charge, it will automatically apply to the tunnels.
Summary of What You Need to Upload:
When you create the new account in the Blue Badge holder's name and apply via the links above, you will need:
Both sides of the Blue Badge.
Proof of Identity (one of: Passport, Driving Licence, Birth Certificate, or a Pension/Benefit letter less than 7 months old).
Authorisation Form (if you are the one applying on their behalf).
Tip: Once the new account is approved, you can add up to two vehicles to it. Once added, those vehicles are "whitelisted" by the cameras and you won't need to do anything else when driving through the tunnels.
