Qualifying Conditions For A Handicap Parking Permit In Arizona

A handicap permit can make a world of difference for disabled drivers. It ensures you have priority for easily accessible parking wherever you go. Applying for your handicap permit in Arizona does not need to be a long or difficult process. The Arizona Department of Transportation can issue both handicap license plates and placards. These can be temporary or permanent, and in Arizona, unlike other states, you can qualify for a disabled parking placard or license plate if you are hearing impaired.

Read on for our guide to qualifying conditions for a handicap parking permit in Arizona, and for more info on how to begin the application process.

How do you qualify for handicap parking in Arizona?

The Arizona Department of Transportation can issue disability placards and license plates for people with the following conditions, among others (check with your local DMV office for more information):

  • Not being able to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest
  • Cardiac conditions
  • Neurological, arthritic, or orthopedic conditions
  • Restrictive lung disease
  • Needing a mobility device like a wheelchair, crutch, brace or cane
  • Requiring portable oxygen
  • Hearing impairment

You can read more about the general qualifying conditions on this page. If you’re a veteran, you may also qualify for a Veteran License Plate for Arizona residents. In order to qualify, your disability must be service-related and verified by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

disabled parking symbols and signage
Image by Robert Ruggiero on Unsplash; How do you qualify for handicap parking in Arizona?

How long does it take to get a disability placard in Arizona?

Getting a disability placard in Arizona is a simple and straightforward process if you have a qualifying condition. Wondering how to get a handicap placard in Arizona? Just arrange an online consultation with one of our licensed medical professionals through Dr. Handicap. During this online consultation, the doctor will go through your medical history and will verify that you qualify for a disabled parking permit. They will also help you to fill out the necessary forms for your application, which you can then submit to your local DMV office.

After they have explained this process to you, your application has been submitted to the DMV, and you have paid any applicable fees, you will quickly receive your disability placard/license. If you do not qualify for a disabled parking permit after meeting with one of our online medical professionals, your consultation fees will be refunded.

What are the Arizona handicap placard laws?

In Arizona, you can receive either a disabled parking placard or a disabled parking license. The placard must be clearly visible at all times, either on the dashboard of your vehicle or hanging from the rearview mirror. If the placard is not visible (even if it is elsewhere in your car), you may receive a fine, so it’s important to display it clearly. The license plate needs to be firmly attached to your vehicle at all times.

Arizona issues permanent and temporary disabled parking permits. It’s important to renew your permit in time, before it expires. Whether you receive a permanent or temporary permit is determined by your qualifying condition. However, even permanent permits technically expire, and must be renewed. Luckily, renewing is a simple process that can be done at your local DMV office, provided that you do so before your permit’s expiration date.

disabled parking sign
Image by Nicolas Torres on Unsplash; Wondering how to get a handicap placard in Arizona? We’ve got you covered!

Your Arizona handicap permit allows you to park in handicap parking with the universal disabled parking sign. This is also known as the International Symbol of Access, and it is a blue square with a wheelchair overlaid. This may either be painted onto the ground on the parking spot itself, or printed on a sign marking the space.

Be sure to make yourself aware of the applicable parking meter rules of your local town or city, as each place has different rules surrounding metered parking. For example, some places in Arizona may offer free metered parking for the specified time for that parking meter, whereas others may allow you to pay your allotted time at that meter and then stay an hour for free. Arizona also recognizes out-of-state disabled parking permits, so visitors are afforded the same rights at Arizona disabled parking permit holders.

For more information on handicap parking permits in Arizona and in other states, be sure to check out the wealth of information on our website and our blog!

Featured image by Quintin Gellar on Pexels

Can A Caregiver Use A Handicap Parking Permit?

Many disabled parking permit holders have caregivers. These may be family members, friends, or professional caregivers. Caregivers provide invaluable assistance to millions of disabled Americans.

Often, caregivers assist disabled permit holders to get from A to B, accompanying them on outings and assisting with transport. So can a caregiver use a handicap parking permit? And if so, under what circumstances?

Can A Caregiver Use A Handicap Parking Permit?

The caregiver of a disabled person does not qualify to get a disabled parking permit for themselves unless they also have a qualifying disability. A caregiver can use a handicap parking permit, however – but only under specific circumstances.

person in wheelchair with caregiver
Image by Judita Tamošiūnaitė on Pexels: Can a caregiver use a handicap parking permit?

Under What Circumstances Can Disability Carers Use Handicap Placards?

The caregiver of a disabled person can use a handicap placard if:

  • The person they are transporting is a handicap parking permit holder
  • They are currently accompanying the permit holder
  • The permit holder is in possession of their permit

Basically, because a caregiver does not qualify for a permit unless they themselves have a qualifying disability, they can only use the permit that is held by the person they are caring for, and only when they are transporting that person.

Who Can Use A Disabled Placard?

Only the official holder of a disabled parking permit can use that permit. The caregiver of a permit holder can use the permit holder’s permit on their own vehicle when they are transporting the disabled person.

Who Is Allowed The Special Privileges Of A Disabled Plate Or Placard?

A disabled parking permit gives its holder special privileges. This is to make the life of the permit holder easier by making public buildings, and amenities more accessible. These privileges include the use of the handicap parking infrastructure and the use of merited parking spaces for free. These privileges are only for disabled permit holders.

What Privileges Do Disabled Permits Allow Their Holders?

Disabled parking permits entitle their holders to the following privileges:

  • Permit holders are entitled to park in designated disabled parking spaces (spaces marked with the International Symbol of Access)
  • In most jurisdictions, permit holders are entitled to park in metered, on-street spaces for free and for an extended or unlimited amount of time
  • Permit holders are often entitled to have a disabled space installed in front of their home

Is There A Disabled Parking Permit For Caregivers?

There is no such thing as a disabled parking permit for caregivers. However, most states have an “Organization” or “Institution” disabled parking permit. These are for organizations or institutions that regularly transport disabled people.

What Types Of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available?

Each state issues its own disabled parking permits. All states issue versions of the following types of disabled parking permits:

  • Permanent disabled parking permit
  • Temporary disabled parking permit
  • Permanent disabled parking license plate
  • Disabled Veterans license plate
  • Organization or institution disabled parking permit

Who Issues Disabled Parking Permits?

Disabled parking permits are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in each state.

two people traveling in car
Image by Darwin Vegher on Unsplash: Is there a disabled parking permit for caregivers? No, but there are circumstances under which they can use disabled parking.

How Do You Apply For A Handicap Parking Permit?

You can apply for a handicap parking permit by submitting an application form to your local handicap parking authorities, usually the local DMV. The form should be signed by a state-licensed medical professional. You can have a consultation with a professional at the Dr. Handicap online clinic.

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Permit?

The qualifying conditions for a disabled parking permit vary slightly by state. In most states, the following list of qualifying conditions apply:

  • An inability to walk 200 feet without needing to stop to rest
  • An inability to walk without the use of or assistance from an assistance device
  • Lung disease
  • A cardiac condition
  • An arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition that severely impairs mobility
  • The use of portable oxygen
  • Legal blindness

Who Can Verify An Application For A Handicap Parking Permit?

In most states, the following state-licensed medical professionals can verify an application for a disabled parking permit:

  • Physician
  • Physician’s assistant
  • Advanced practice nurse
  • Chiropractor
  • Optometrist
  • Surgeon

Where Are Handicap Parking Permits Valid?

Handicap parking permits from all states are valid in the following jurisdictions:

  • All US states
  • All US overseas territories
  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • EU
  • UK
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Japan

Featured image by Stefano Intintoli on Unsplash

How To Get Your Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio

Let’s take a look at the process of getting a disabled parking permit in San Antonio, Texas. Below we’ll answer all your questions, including: Is disabled parking free in San Antonio? What types of handicap parking permits are available in San Antonio? How do you get a handicap parking permit in San Antonio? What are the qualifying conditions for a handicap permit in San Antonio? And how do you renew a handicap permit in San Antonio?

Who Issues Disabled Parking Permits In San Antonio?

Disabled parking permits in San Antonio are issued by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Applications for disabled parking permits or license plates in the city should be submitted to a local county tax collector’s office.

Disabled Parking Rules In San Antonio

San Antonio disabled parking permit holders are entitled to park in any designated disabled space in the city. Disabled spaces are marked with signposts that show the International Symbol of Access. Permit holders are also entitled to park in on-street, metered parking spaces for an unlimited amount of time.

river in downtown san antonio texas
Image by Eric Francis on Unsplash: Is disabled parking free in San Antonio?

Is Disabled Parking Free In San Antonio?

Parking is free for disabled permit-holders in San Antonio, both in designated disabled spaces and at metered, on-street spaces.

What Is The Fine For Illegally Parking In A Handicap Spot In San Antonio?

The fines for parking illegally in a disabled parking space in San Antonio range from $500 to $750.

What Types Of Handicap Parking Permits Are Available In San Antonio?

The following handicap parking permits are available in San Antonio:

  • Permanent handicap parking placards (blue)
  • Temporary handicap parking placards (red)
  • Permanent handicap parking license plates
  • Disabled Veterans license plates
  • Institutional handicap parking placard (for institutions and organizations that transport people with disabilities)

How To Get Your Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio

To get a handicap parking permit in San Antonio, first head to the Dr. Handicap online clinic and have a video consultation with a medical professional.

They will verify your disability and sign the relevant section of a Texas DMV disabled parking permit application form. You can then complete the form and submit it to your local tax collector’s office.

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio?

The qualifying conditions for a handicap parking permit in San Antonio are:

  • An inability to walk 200 feet without needing to stop to rest.
  • An inability to walk without the use of or assistance from an assistance device, including a brace, cane, crutch, wheelchair, another person, or a prosthetic device.
  • Lung disease
  • A cardiac condition classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to the American Heart Association.
  • A severely limited ability to walk because of an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.
  • The use of portable oxygen.
  • A foot disorder that limits or impairs a person’s ability to walk.
  • Another debilitating condition that, in the opinion of a qualifying physician, limits or impairs a person’s ability to walk.
  • Visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses.
  • Visual acuity of more than 20/200 but with a limited field of vision in which the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle of 20 degrees or less.

Who Can Verify An Application For A Disabled Permit In San Antonio?

The following medical professionals can verify an application for a disabled permit in San Antonio:

  • Physician
  • Physician’s assistant
  • Advanced practice nurse
  • Podiatrist
  • Optometrist

The medical professional must also meet one of the following conditions:

  • They are licensed in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, or Oklahoma
  • They practice medicine in a U.S. military installation based in Texas
  • They practice medicine in a hospital or health facility of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

How Much Does A Handicap Placard Cost In San Antonio?

Permanent placards are free in San Antonio and Temporary placards cost $5.

downtown san antonio street
Image by Weston MacKinnon on Unsplash: How do you get a handicap parking permit in San Antonio?

How Long Are Handicap Parking Permits Valid In San Antonio?

Permanent disabled parking permits and institutional permits are valid for four years, and temporary disabled parking placards are valid for six months.

How Do You Renew A Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio?

You renew your disabled permit in San Antonio by submitting a new application form to your local tax collector’s office. If you are applying to renew your permanent permit you do not need a new physician’s signature, but if you are applying for a new temporary permit, you do.

Where Can You Use A San Antonio Handicap Parking Permit?

You can use a San Antonio handicap parking permit in the following jurisdictions:

  • All US states and overseas territories
  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • EU
  • UK
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Japan

Featured image by Chandra Maharzan on Unsplash

How Do I Get A Handicap Parking Permit In San Jose?

Disabled drivers who live in San Jose, California, are entitled to use the city’s disabled parking infrastructure. San Jose’s disabled parking program exists to improve the lives of disabled residents and visitors to the city, and to enable easier access to the city’s amenities.

So, how do you get a handicap parking permit in San Jose? What types of San Jose disabled parking permits are available? And what are the qualifying conditions for a handicap permit in San Jose? Below, we’ll answer these important questions and more.

Accessible Parking In San Jose

The city of San Jose is well stocked with accessible parking spaces. This website shows the location of parking for people with disabilities in downtown San Jose.

Who Issues San Jose Handicap Parking Cards?

San Jose handicap parking permits are issued by the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles.

waterfront houses in san jose california
Image by Timo Wielink on Unsplash: How do I get a handicap parking permit in San Jose?

How Do I Get A Handicap Parking Permit In San Jose?

To get a handicap parking permit in San Jose, you should begin by having a telemedicine consultation with a California-licensed medical professional. This can be done at the Dr. Handicap online clinic.

Once a state-licensed medical professional verifies your disability, they will fill in the Doctor’s Certification section of a handicap parking application form. You will then submit the completed application form to the California DMV along with any necessary fee (permanent permits are free and temporary permits cost $6).

You can submit your application in person at your local DMV office or by mailing it to:

  • DMV Placard
    PO Box 932345
    Sacramento, CA 94232-3450

What Types Of San Jose Disabled Parking Permits Are Available?

There are four types of handicap parking permits available in San Jose:

  • Permanent handicap parking placard or license plate
  • Temporary handicap parking placard
  • Organization handicap parking placard
  • Disabled Veterans license plate

Who Can Verify An Application For A Handicap Parking Permit In San Jose?

Several different types of medical professionals can verify an application for a handicap parking permit in San Jose:

  • Licensed physician
  • Surgeon
  • Nurse practitioner
  • Physician assistant
  • Certified nurse-midwife
  • Licensed chiropractor
  • Licensed optometrist

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Handicap Parking Permit In San Jose?

You will qualify for a handicap parking permit in San Jose if:

  • You have lost the use of both hands or one or both lower extremities
  • You have a disease that impairs or interferes with mobility
  • You are unable to walk without the aid of an assistive device
  • You have visual problems, including lower vision or partial-sightedness

How Long Are San Jose Handicap Parking Permits Valid?

San Jose handicap parking permits are valid for either:

  • Two years (permanent disabled parking placards) or
  • Six months (temporary disabled parking placards)

How Do You Renew A Handicap Parking Permit In San Jose?

You can renew a handicap parking permit in San Jose by submitting an application form in person at your local DMV office or by mailing it to:

  • DMV Placard
    PO Box 932345
    Sacramento, CA 94232-3450

Can I Get A Handicapped Parking Space In Front Of My House In San Jose?

You can request the installation of a residential disabled parking space in front of your house by phoning (408) 535-3850 or submitting an email request to traffic.safety@sanjoseca.gov.

san diego street
Image by Andrii Ganzevych on Unsplash: How long are San Jose handicap parking permits valid? This depends on the type of permit.

Parking Rules In San Jose

A San Jose handicap parking permit entitles its holder to park:

  • In designated disabled parking spaces (marked with the International Symbol of Access)
  • Next to a blue curb (which marks spaces that are authorized for disabled permit holders)
  • Next to a green curb for up to 72 hours
  • In metered, on-street spaces for free

San Jose permit-holders are not entitled to park:

  • In spaces marked with a crosshatched pattern next to a disabled space
  • Next to a red, yellow, or white curb

Where Can I Use A San Jose Handicap Parking Permit?

San Jose handicap parking permits are valid in:

  • All US states
  • All US overseas territories
  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • UK
  • EU
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • New Zealand

Featured image by Mo on Unsplash

Does An Employer Need To Provide Wheelchair-Accessible Parking?

For those with a physical disability, having wheelchair-accessible parking is a game-changer. Ensuring you can get in and out of your car safely and easily is so important. Having wheelchair-accessible parking at the workplace can have a huge impact on your commute. This is particularly the case for drivers who are already nervous behind the wheel.

Getting a disabled parking permit helps you to access wheelchair-accessible parking. Applying for a permit is a simple process for those with a qualifying condition. While these conditions vary from state to state, they typically include those such as:

  • Loss of mobility
  • Loss of limb
  • Limited vision
  • Lung illness
  • Cardiac conditions

Unfortunately, it can often be difficult to navigate the world of disabled parking, as rules surrounding parking permits vary from state, and regional laws may differ. Many people are unsure as to what they are entitled to as part of their employment, and knowing employer parking laws can be confusing. That’s where the ADA comes in.

wheelchair user
Image by stevepb on Pixabay: What accommodations does an employer have to provide to employees with disabilities?

What Are The ADA Disabled Parking Rules?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was designed to protect the rights of Americans living with disabilities and offer standardized guidelines for employers to follow. The ADA sets the standards for what disabled parking spaces should look like. They should have a minimum size (eight feet wide, plus five feet of aisle space on either side) to allow for easy access to and from the vehicle, and they should also be clearly marked or signposted with the International Symbol of Access. They must be situated near the most accessible entrance of the building they serve, and must provide an accessible route to and from this entrance.

Does An Employer Need To Provide Wheelchair-Accessible Parking?

Any company with more than 15 employees has to abide by the ADA guidelines. Your employer must make every reasonable accommodation for you as a disabled employee. If an employer provides their own parking lot for employees, this must have a certain number of disabled parking spaces. If you have a physical disability and use a wheelchair, your employer must make a wheelchair-accessible parking space available to you if parking in a private lot is a perk that they provide.

However, some employers do not provide parking for their employees. This is not a legal requirement, so your employer does not need to provide it. If employee parking is not offered at your place of work (if your employer does not own their own parking lot, for example), it is not the employer’s responsibility to provide wheelchair-accessible parking. In this case, it is the responsibility of whichever parking lot the employee generally uses.

How Many Disabled Parking Spaces Should There Be In A Parking Lot?

The ADA sets standards when it comes to how many disabled parking spaces should be allocated to each parking lot. The amount of wheelchair-accessible and disabled parking places per lot depends on its total capacity. Under current standards, this means that for every 25 parking spaces there must be one accessible van space. For a lot that has 300 spaces, at least seven must be accessible. There must also be an access aisle provided to enable wheelchair users to easily enter and exit the parking lot without obstruction.

employee parking lot
Image by JayMantri on Pixabay: Do employers have to accommodate people with disabilities?

The Bottom Line: Do Employers Have To Provide Parking For Disabled Employees

While you have rights as a disabled parking permit holder, simply owning a permit does not mean your employer is required to provide wheelchair-accessible parking. The ADA states that employers must make all reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. However, if the employer cannot reasonably provide disabled parking, and if it places undue hardship on them, they are not obliged to do so.

Some employers may provide wheelchair-accessible parking, but there may be not be enough disabled parking spaces for each employee who needs one. Situations like this can be stressful and difficult to manage, but the best way to sort them out is to have a conversation with your employer to see what can be done to accommodate both your needs and theirs.

It is important that you can access wheelchair-accessible parking, and it is your right to do so. However, it can be complicated to negotiate what must be provided by your employer, and what constitutes reasonable grounds for the provision of disabled parking places. Fortunately, the ADA is there to help those with disabilities live life as easily as possible, and most employers are willing to make the necessary accommodations for their employees.

Featured image by overjupiter on Pixabay