Permit user guides

How-to documents to help you set up an account or apply for a permit. Please be aware that these documents are currently in the process of being updated.

• How to create an online permit account (odt format, 513 KB)
• How to use a digital visitor permit (odt format, 189 KB)
• How to apply for visitor permits (odt format, 356 KB)
• How to renew a permit (odt format, 566 KB)
• How to change your vehicle (odt  format 633 KB)
• Viewing permit details (docx format, 434 KB)
• Applying for a resident's congestion permit (docx format, 1.4 MB)
• Applying for an exemption in the congestion zone (docx format, 1.3 MB)

Visitor permits

Paper scratchcards will no longer be issued. Instead, your account will be credited with virtual visitor permits, known as 'credits', which will be available immediately.

You can access and manage single or multiple credits directly from your account anytime, without needing additional approval.

To activate a credit, enter the visitor's vehicle registration details before they arrive. If needed, you can cancel a credit before the session begins, and it will be returned to your account allocation. 

However, once a visitor credit becomes active, it cannot be cancelled.

Blue Badge holders residing in eligible properties can create an account and apply for up to 50 virtual visitor permits annually.

Old visitor permit scratchcards

Scratchcards valid for visitors marked between 2025 and 2026 can be used until the end of 2025. 

Problems accessing a computer or smartphone

We understand that not everyone has access to a computer or smartphone to use our website. 

A trusted family member or friend/carer may help you create an account and activate permits on your behalf.

In addition, our team of advisors is available on 01865 519800 from Monday to Thursday, 8.45am-5pm, and Friday, 8.45am-4pm, to assist you with applying for and using virtual visitor permits once your account is activated. 

People who cannot set up a digital account due to them being digitally excluded can still have access to paper visitor parking permits. They will need to call the team, using the number above, and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Sharing accounts

You can share your account with family and friends to enable them to act on your behalf. This can be a one-time process or done on different occasions to suit your needs. 

When sharing your account, you can grant access for various lengths of time, allowing flexibility to accommodate your requirements. 

Reminders

Set up email reminders to stay informed when your permit is about to expire. We will no longer send paper reminders by post.

Residential Carers Card

Residential Carers Cards are transitioning to virtual permits, allowing up to 750 visits from carers annually. 

Your current Residential Carers Card can still be used until it expires.