Can I Apply For A Disabled Parking Badge For A Motorbike?

For those who have never had to use a disabled parking permit, it can be difficult to understand their value for those with disabilities. Most people simply know that if they see the International Access Symbol, or wheelchair symbol, there are reserved parking spots they can park in. But what about motorbikes? If you’re wondering “Can I use my disabled parking badge on a motorbike?”, read on to find out!

Disabled Parking and Motorbikes

Disabled parking permits and plates are extended to people who use motorbikes. Basically, the rules and privileges afforded to disabled drivers stand no matter what type of vehicle they are in – whether that’s a car or a motorbike. If you’re disabled but you can ride a motorbike, then there’s no reason not to explore the use of a motorbike disabled parking permit.

Many people might assume that riding a motorbike is dangerous or difficult, and that a person who is disabled would never be able to drive or ride on one – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Plus, disabilities and the conditions that qualify a person for the use of a disabled parking permit may not impede someone’s ability to use a motorbike, especially in the case of those with invisible disabilities. Remember: never judge a person who doesn’t look disabled as someone who doesn’t qualify for a disabled parking permit.

It’s also important to note that you can have a motorbike disabled parking permit or plate if you are transporting someone with a disability.

How to Apply for a Motorbike Disabled Parking Permit

Obtaining a disabled parking permit for a motorbike follows the same procedures as any other vehicle. You first much get a form from the Department of Motor Vehicles (or the agency that runs the disabled parking permit program in your state), then you must fill it out with the help of a doctor who can certify your qualifying condition. The qualifying conditions vary from state to state, but in general, they include:

• Lung disease
• Heart disease
• Arthritis
• The inability to walk more than 200 feet without stopping to rest
• The use of an assistive device such as a wheelchair or cane for mobility
• The loss of use of your hands or legs
• Visual issues

If you think you may qualify for a disabled parking permit in your state, check with the DMV for specifics and discuss it with your doctor.

Different Types of Motorbike Disabled Parking Permit

There are a few ways that a motorbike user can show they have disabled parking privileges. The first and most common is a disabled license plate with the blue-and-white handicap symbol on it. These are available either permanently or temporarily, depending on your qualifying condition. If you are granted a temporary disabled parking permit, a new form will need to be filled out every six months to renew your permit. Permanent disability plates simply need to be renewed on the same schedule as normal license plates.

A motorbike can also display a disabled parking placard or permit. These are similar to the types normally seen hanging from the rearview mirrors of vehicles. Of course, motorcyclists will need to be creative with the placement of these permits, but they still must be easy to see in order to be legal.

A disabled parking placard may also be issued in addition to a plate for the motorcyclist to use in other vehicles in which they’ll be riding. These normally need to be renewed every two years but that can, again, depend on where you live.

Parking Motorbikes in Disabled Parking Spots

When someone has a motorbike disabled parking permit or plate, they are allowed to park in handicap parking. A motorbike may be smaller than a car, but the disabled parking permit allows for any vehicle it is on to access these parking spots.

Other parking privileges available to those with disabled parking permits or plates on their motorbike may include:

• Parking in metered parking without paying
• Full-service fill-ups at gas stations
• Parking anywhere with a handicap parking symbol

The places you can park with a disabled parking permit vary from state to state. It’s very important to check with your local DMV to ensure you understand where you may and may not park your vehicle – whether it’s a motorbike or another type of automobile.

If you love the feel of the wind in your hair as you drive your motorbike down the road, then there’s no reason to stop simply due to a disability! If you’ve been wondering, “Can I use my disabled parking permit on a motorbike?”, the answer is yes. Why not apply for a motorbike disabled parking permit today and make life that little bit easier?