Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In New Jersey

New Jersey’s disabled parking program aims to improve accessibility and promote equality throughout the state. The Garden State’s disabled parking infrastructure serves both New Jersey residents and visitors to the state. So, what are the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in New Jersey? Let’s dive into everything you need to know.

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In New Jersey

What qualifies you for a disability placard in NJ? If you are disabled in any of the following ways, you will qualify for a New Jersey disabled parking permit:

  • You have lost the use of one or more limbs as a consequence of paralysis, amputation, or other permanent disability.
  • You are severely and permanently disabled and cannot walk without the use of or assistance from a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair or other assistive device.
  • You suffer from lung disease to such an extent that your forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty mm/hg on room air at rest.
  • You use portable oxygen.
  • You have a cardiac condition to the extent that your functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to standards set by the American Heart Association.
  • You are severely and permanently limited in the ability to walk because of an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.
  • You cannot walk two hundred feet without stopping to rest.
  • You have a permanent sight impairment of both eyes as certified by the N.J. Commission of the Blind.
new jersey boardwalk
Image by BruceEmmerling on Pixabay: How do I get disabled parking in NJ?

What Types Of Medical Professionals Can Certify A Disabled Parking Application In New Jersey?

The following types of medical professionals, licensed to practice in the State of New Jersey or a neighboring state, can certify an application for disabled parking in New Jersey:

  • Physician
  • Podiatrist
  • Chiropractor
  • Nurse practitioner
  • Physician assistant
  • A physician stationed at a military or naval installation located in New Jersey who is licensed to practice in any state

What Types Of New Jersey Disability Placards Are Available?

The following types of disabled parking permits are available in New Jersey:

  • Permanent disabled parking placard (available to individuals and to organizations, agencies, and groups that transport disabled people)
  • Permanent disabled parking license plates
  • Temporary disabled parking placard
  • Disabled Veterans license plates

Who Qualifies For A Disabled License Plate In New Jersey?

You will qualify for a disabled parking license plate in New Jersey if you have a disability that is considered to be long-term or permanent. If you have a qualifying medical condition, you can choose from one from the following three options:

  • One set of wheelchair symbol license plates
  • One person with a disability placard
  • One set of plates and one placard

A “Person with a Disability Identification Card” is issued with license plates and placards. This ID card must be carried by the disabled person in conjunction with the license plates/placard when they are using disabled parking.

How Do I Get Disabled Parking In NJ?

To get a disabled parking permit in New Jersey, you’ll first need to have a medical consultation with a licensed medical professional. This can be done online using a telemedicine app such as Dr. Handicap.

Once your disability has been verified by the examining medical professional, they will sign a handicap placard NJ application form and email it to you within 24 hours. You should then complete the application form and submit it either in person at a motor vehicle agency or by mail to:

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Special Plate Unit
225 East State Street
PO Box 015
Trenton, NJ 08666-0015

If you’re applying for a disabled parking license plate, you must include a copy of the vehicle registration with the application.

jersey city new jersey
Image by 1778011 on Pixabay: What qualifies you for a disability placard in NJ?

How Much Does A New Jersey Disabled Parking Permit Cost?

Good news: there is no fee for disabled parking placards or license plates in New Jersey.

When Do New Jersey Disabled Parking Permits Expire?

New Jersey Temporary disabled parking placards expire after six months. Permanent disabled parking permits in New Jersey expire after three years. Wheelchair symbol license plates must be renewed every year as part of the statewide renewal process.

Do I Need Recertification When Renewing My New Jersey Disabled Parking Permit?

When renewing any type of New Jersey disabled parking permit, you must get new medical certification. This will be after six months in the case of temporary permit holders, and after three years for permanent permit holders. To renew, simply submit a new application form to the above address.

Featured image by 12019 on Pixabay

How To Get A Handicap Sticker In Alabama

Those who have a disability are sure to recognize the benefits of an AL disabled parking sticker. If you have reduced mobility due to your medical condition, and regularly drive a vehicle, you’ve no doubt noticed that some parking spaces are not suitable for you. Rather than having to walk across big parking lots from your car to the store, or maneuvering your vehicle into awkward positions only to have difficulty getting out of the driver’s seat, consider applying for an Alabama handicap parking placard. Let’s learn how to get a handicap sticker in Alabama.

How to get a handicap sticker in Alabama: a guide

The first thing to consider when you decide to apply for your handicap tag Alabama is the type of medical condition you have. If you have a serious, long-lasting disability but are still able to drive, chances are you qualify for a permanent placard. A temporary ailment that is likely to be short-term will instead qualify you for a temporary placard, which will be valid for a maximum of six months.

Aside from disabled parking placards, disabled parking plates are also available to disabled drivers, in addition to organizations which regularly transport disabled passengers. Placards are only available for disabled drivers themselves – you cannot apply for a placard for yourself under the premise that you will be the regular driver for someone who is disabled.

reserved disabled parking sign
Image by Steve DiMatteo on Unsplash: There are many benefits to the handicap tag Alabama program.

Qualifying conditions for an AL disabled parking sticker as per the Alabama State Department of Revenue include:

  • Cannot walk two hundred feet without stopping to rest
  • Cannot walk without the use of, or assistance from, a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or other assistive device
  • Are restricted by lung disease to such an extent that the person’s forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than 60 mm.hg on room air at rest
  • Use portable oxygen
  • Have a cardiac condition to the extent that the person’s functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to standards set by the American Heart Association
  • Are severely limited in their ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition

Handicap parking permit application in Alabama: the process

If you have one of the qualifying conditions above, even if it is temporary, you’ll qualify for a disabled parking permit. However, other conditions may also make you eligible, and should be discussed with a licensed state physician. You will need to complete a medical consultation as part of your application, as the process requires a physician’s certification. Dr Handicap can help you to organize your consultation online.

Prior to your consultation, you should complete the Application for Disability Access Parking Privileges (Form MVR 32-6-230) with your personal details. The form also includes further information on the application process, in case you have any doubts or questions. The short consultation will involve a conversation surrounding your medical history as well as condition at present. If the physician decides that you meet the requirements for a placard or plates, they will sign off on your application.

You will need to give this completed form to your local county licensing office with the relevant fee if applicable (there are fees associated with parking plates, but placards are free).

person using laptop for online application
Image by Sergey Zolkin on Unsplash: Want more information on handicap parking permit application in Alabama? You’ve come to the right place!

How many handicap tags can you have in Alabama?

Temporary placard holders may only possess one tag at a time. Permanently disabled drivers may have one plate for each vehicle they own, as well as a permanent disabled parking placard. If no disabled parking plates are required, the driver may request an additional (second) Alabama disabled parking placard.

If you need to replace a handicap tag due to damage, loss or theft, there is a section dedicated to this on the same application form you initially used. Simply complete the section at the end of the form with the relevant details and follow the instructions provided.

It’s important to remember to use your handicap tag correctly. Make sure it’s clearly visible when occupying disabled parking spaces by hanging the placard from your rearview mirror, or laying it on the dashboard. Always remove it when driving, in case it obstructs your vision.

We hope this guide has been useful for you, and that you are now clear on the process of how to get a handicap sticker in Alabama. If you need assistance with your application, make sure to reach out to Dr Handicap – we’ll be able to answer any questions you may have!

Featured image by Zach Searcy on Unsplash

How Do You Renew Your Arkansas Handicap Parking Placard Online?

If you live in Arkansas and have a disability that affects your mobility and impacts your daily life behind the wheel, you could be eligible for an AR disabled parking permit. A disabled parking permit can be life-changing for those who struggle to find suitable parking for an adapted vehicle, or those who cannot walk substantial distances from their car.

When you apply for a disabled parking permit, you’ll need to undergo a medical consultation with a licensed state medical professional. During this short consultation (which can be done via telemedicine with the help of Dr. Handicap), a physician will assess the severity and nature of your medical condition.

According to the DFA, conditions that typically qualify for a disabled parking permit in Arkansas include (but are not limited to):

  • Cannot walk one hundred (100) feet without stopping to rest
  • Cannot walk without the use of or assistance from a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or other assistive device
  • Is restricted by lung disease to such an extent that the person’s forced respiratory expiratory volume for one (1) second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one (1) liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty (60) mm/hg on room air at rest
  • Uses portable oxygen
  • Has a cardiac condition to the extent that the person’s functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to standards set by the American Heart Association
person using laptop with stethescope
Image by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash: What do I need to renew my handicap placard in AR?

Temporary vs permanent placards

Disabled drivers in the state of Arkansas have two options: temporary disabled parking permits and permanent disabled parking permits. The type of permit you receive initially depends on your medical condition. For example, if you have a qualifying condition that is lifelong and unlikely to improve, you will most likely qualify for a permanent placard. Short-term ailments that could improve in the future may lead your physician to suggest a temporary permit instead.

No matter which permit you qualify for, your rights as a disabled driver are the same. Both of these permit options grant you access to specially designed and reserved disabled parking spaces, which are clearly marked and conveniently located to make life easier for those with reduced mobility.

However, the important thing to remember is that both these permit types have different lengths of validity, and different renewal processes. Ensure you keep an eye on the expiration date of your permit to be sure you remain within the law while you occupy disabled parking spaces.

When should I do my AR disabled parking permit renewal?

According to the Arkansas DFA, validity periods are as follows:

  • Permanent certificate (placard) for the permanently disabled (…) expires four (4) years from the last day of the month in which it is issued. A re-certification is not required to issue a new permanent certificate for the purposes of renewal.
  • Temporary certificate (placard) (…) expires three (3) months from the last day of the month in which it is issued.

Now that we’ve established the different lengths of validity for both types of permit, we’re sure you have a few questions. What do I need to renew my handicap placard in AR? Can I renew my handicap placard online in Arkansas?

In the following section, we’ll go through the steps you need to take to ensure your permit remains valid.

disabled parking signpost
Image by Tungsten Rising on Unsplash: How do I renew my handicap placard in Arkansas?

How do I renew my handicap placard in Arkansas?

Arkansas has made the renewal process super streamlined and efficient, and there are numerous ways to renew your permit. However, it’s very important to note that only permanent placards are eligible for renewal. Due to their nature, temporary placards require a whole new application, including physician consultation and approval, to ensure that you still qualify for a permit with the same medical condition.

You can either apply for a renewal for your permanent placard by mail to the Department of Finance and Administration, by calling the toll-free number 1-800-941-2580, or online. You will need your renewal reminder, which has your renewal ID number and verification code. If you don’t have your renewal reminder, this can also be generated with your vehicle details, zip code etc.

How do you renew your Arkansas handicap parking placard online?

Arkansas is one of the US states which allows for online permit renewal (for permanent placards), so you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home to complete the process. The online STAR system enables you to renew your permit online, using the same information as with the other methods.

Now that we’ve covered the main points of AR disabled parking permit renewal, we hope you find the process a little easier to navigate. And remember, Dr. Handicap is always here to help you to apply for your Arkansas handicap parking placard online!

Featured image by Joshua J. Cotton on Unsplash

How Do You Renew Your Alabama Handicap Parking Placard Online?

A disabled parking placard helps people with any sort of disability, allowing them to park closer to their destination. Having a disabled parking permit or placard can make life easier for anyone with a temporary or permanent disability. The universal symbol is a blue background with a white wheelchair, which is also painted on disabled parking spots.

Different states have varying rules, regulations and stipulations regarding the issuance and renewal of disabled parking permits and placards. For example, you might not be aware that an Alabama handicap parking permit is valid in all other states, but some require that you apply for temporary travel placards.

According to the CDC, 31% of Alabama’s population is living with a disability. Having access to disabled parking is important for their equality and functioning within society. We’ve put together everything you need to know about disabled parking placards, permit issuance, and the renewal process in the state of Alabama.

disabled parking sign on pole
Image by Jakub Pabis on Unsplash: Alabama handicap placard renewal online makes life easier for a lot of people.

Eligibility for Alabama handicap placard renewal online

In order for you to be eligible for handicap placard renewal, you must be able to prove that you still have a recognized disability by the state of Alabama when applying for a disabled placard. This includes:

  • Inability to walk 100 feet without needing a break to rest
  • Needing assistance in walking e.g. crutches, wheelchair
  • A serious heart and/or lung disease
  • Dependence on portable oxygen for proper respiratory function
  • Spine or limb injury (temporary or permanent)
  • Genetic disability

Period of validity

A disabled parking placard and permit in Alabama has a validity of six months if it’s temporary (red placard) and five years if permanent (blue placard). A disabled license plate is issued only if the driver has a lifelong disability.

Temporary placards, as the name suggests, are issued to anyone who has a temporary disability and is unable to walk without the temporary assistance of crutches or another walking aid. If the disability extends beyond six months, the placard can be renewed. Alabama handicap parking permit renewal also applies to permanent placards, as they are not renewed automatically after their validity expires in five years (so keep an eye on the expiration date!).

Renewal months

The renewal of disabled placards in Alabama is permitted only during the specified renewal months. Another reason to note the date of expiration on your placard is that it will correspond with your renewal month.

Fee

Good news: disabled drivers are exempt from paying any fee for Alabama handicap placard renewal.

Proper paperwork for permanent Alabama handicap placard renewal online

The process of handicap placard renewal starts with filling out the application, which can be downloaded online. For long-term placard renewal, you’ll need to fill out and submit the application, confirming that you still meet all the requirements for disabled parking placard or permit issuance in the state of Alabama.

You aren’t required to submit a new physician certificate at this time, as you can self-certify that you are still eligible for disabled parking.

How to renew an AL disabled parking permit for the temporarily disabled

You need to fill out the form and submit it to the local DMV with your physician’s certificate showing that your injuries are not yet fully healed and that you require another six months. If it is indicated that your recovery will be beyond six months, the application will be declined. Be sure that your application and the certificate fit the criteria for a temporary disabled parking placard.

Mailing the documents

People sometimes get confused over Alabama handicap placard renewal online, assuming the form can be completed online after uploading the required documents. However, that is not the case. While you can download the form online, once it has been filled out, it needs to be mailed to the local DMV, along with the supporting documents such as the physician’s certificate.

Vehicle registration

Another important factor in applying for disabled placard renewal is the name of the applicant on the vehicle registration. If the vehicle is no longer registered in your name, you cannot apply for Alabama handicap parking permit renewal. If you have a new vehicle, you need to apply for a new placard and renew it post-expiration. The local Department of Motor Vehicles will issue you up to two placards if your name appears on the registration papers of two vehicles.

disabled parking symbol on parking space
Image by Jakub Pabis on Unsplash: Anyone with a temporary or permanent disability can acquire an Alabama handicap placard or permit.

Lost or stolen Alabama handicap placard renewal online

If your handicap placard is stolen or lost, you can simply fill the renewal application and send it to the local county via email. This facility can be utilized a total of two times only. For a third replacement placard, you’ll need to file an official police report and submit a copy to the local DMV.

Displaying the handicap placard properly 

The state of Alabama advises drivers not to display the placard or permit when they are driving the car. It should only be put on display when the vehicle is left in a handicap parking spot. At that time, the ideal location to display the placard is to hang it from the rearview mirror. The handicap permit can be displayed on the dashboard of the vehicle.

Improper usage

Keep in mind that you’re only allowed to use your disability card or permit as long as you’re either driving or traveling as a passenger in the vehicle. If you are not in the car and someone else uses the placard, you will be in violation of the law, which may trigger legal proceedings. Always be careful, and never let someone else use your placard unless you’re in the vehicle.

Hopefully, you’re now fully up to date on disabled placard renewal in Alabama. If you’re in need of physician certification for your permit, check out the Dr. Handicap app today!

Featured image by Steve DiMatteo on Unsplash

What Is A Travel Parking Placard And How Does It Affect Disabled Drivers?

Disabled drivers are usually comfortable with local rules around disabled parking, but things can get confusing when visiting other states or countries. When traveling abroad or out of state, disabled drivers may not be entitled to the same parking freedoms as they are at home. So when do disabled drivers need a travel parking DP placard?

Essentially, you need a travel parking DP placard when you wish to use a state’s disabled bays. A travel parking placard allows disabled drivers to use disabled parking for an allotted number of days. Almost all U.S. states recognize disabled parking permits, but each state does have its own rules and regulations. The requirements for disabled permits for visiting motorists vary from state to state. Sometimes, an out-of-state or international permit will be fine, but in other cases, a temporary permit may be required. We recommend checking with the local DMV advisors about the requirements specific to the state you’re traveling to before using their disabled parking facilities.

Each American state issues a variety of disabled parking permits. These include permanent license plates and placards, temporary placards, organizational placards and plates, and Disabled Veterans license plates. Each of these varying types of disabled parking permits hold validity in the EU and other European countries. The European Conference of Ministers of Transport (ECMT) devised a blanket policy in 1978 for disabled drivers across Europe, which entitles disabled drivers the same rights across all participating countries. The law remains applicable today.

The comprehensive list of ECMT-compliant countries includes Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. Additional countries that recognize the ECMT are Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, New Zealand and the United States.

disabled parking sign painted on ground
Image by Amit Bansal on Unsplash: A travel parking DP placard or travel parking plates enable disabled drivers to park in accessible spots around the world.

When traveling to different countries, it’s important to establish the rules of the local governing body. You should be certain your travel parking DP placard is authorized for the location you are visiting. Generally, the basis of disabled parking bay rules in the EU mirrors that of the U.S. You can find a contact list of commonly requested states below, curated by the US Embassy in the UK.

Remember: always display your placard in clear sight to avoid penalties. Whenever using a disabled driver’s permit, ensure the permit holder is an occupant of the vehicle. Spaces will be branded with the Universal Symbol of Access (the wheelchair symbol). As per the FIA (Federation Internationale de I‘Automobile) Guide, it’s always a good idea to consult the specification displayed on parking signs before parking in a disabled spot.

When traveling across the U.S., disabled parking bays are widely available to those who need them. This is thanks to the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which secures appropriate facilities for disabled people at relevant locations. The sentiment is echoed around many other countries, embracing disabled patrons for a welcoming experience.

The qualifying conditions for a disabled person parking placard in the U.S. vary from state to state. The core group of conditions generally includes:

  • Inability to walk 200 feet without needing to rest.
  • Inability to walk without the use of a crutch, cane, wheelchair, brace, another person, or another assistive device.
  • Sufferers of lung disease.
  • Heart conditions (designated Class III or IV by the American Heart Association) and an arthritic condition.
  • Dependency on a portable oxygen tank.

If you have a qualifying condition and would benefit from the use of disabled bays, you can authorize your vehicle in a few ways. The first is with a disabled person license plate, which is registered and remains fixed to the vehicle. This solution best suits the personal use of a disabled driver. Disabled parking plates also have the advantage of being displayed clearly at all times when using disabled parking – there can be no confusion or forgetting your permit when it’s attached to your vehicle!

The second is a disabled placard, which is transferable to whichever vehicle the disabled person is using. This is a mobile form of accreditation that is perfect for caregivers who help disabled drivers get around. You may also be able to access metered parking without paying or be allowed to park in time-limited spaces for longer than posted.

As a disabled person license plate is restricted to the vehicle it’s registered to, the disabled person will need to obtain a disabled person parking placard to make any temporary transport eligible for disabled parking.

woman in wheelchair in scenic location
Image by Zachary Kyra-Derksen on Unsplash: With a disabled person parking placard, disabled travelers needn’t be restricted by difficult parking.

If you need help obtaining the necessary documentation for disabled parking when traveling, Dr. Handicap may be able to help. If you’re without insurance, not registered with a doctor, or have low mobility, Dr. Handicap’s telemedicine service can be an incredibly convenient and cost-saving way to get the recommendations you need.

Links to other Motor Vehicle Departments can be found on the website of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators.

  • California
    DMV Placard
    P. O. Box 942869
    Sacramento, California 94269-0001
    tel: (916) 657-8135
  • Florida
    Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
    Motor Vehicles Division
    Neil Kirkman Bldg
    Tallahassee FL 32399-0620
    See also: Disabled Parking Permits for Florida Visitors
  • Illinois
    Secretary of State
    Persons with Disabilities License Plates/Placard Unit
    501 S. 2nd Street, Rm. 541
    Springfield IL 62756
    tel: (217)-782-2709, (217)-782-2434 or (217)-782-3166
  • Massachusetts
    Attn: Medical Affairs Branch
    Registry of Motor Vehicles
    PO Box 199100
    Boston, MA 02119-9100
    tel: (617) 351-2700
  • Nevada
    Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety
    Registration Division
    Special Plate Section
    555 Wright Way
    Carson City NV 89711-0760
    tel: (775) 687-3281
  • New York
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    6 Empire State Plaza
    Albany, NY 12228
    tel: (518) 473-9324
  • Texas
    Vehicle Titles and Registration
    Department of Transportation
    200 E. Riverside Drive
    Austin TX 78704
    tel: (512) 465-7611
  • Virginia
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    P.O. Box 27412
    Richmond VA 23269
    tel: (804) 367-6602

Featured image by Romain Virtuel on Unsplash