Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Illinois

Today we’re here to outline the different types of disabled parking permits that are available in the Prairie State, and discuss the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Illinois.

There are several different types of Illinois disabled parking permits available to disabled drivers. This includes some permits that entitle their holders to park in metered, on-street spaces for free. Only people with specific disabilities qualify for each type of permit. So let’s find out: what qualifies for disabled parking in Illinois?

What Types Of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available In Illinois?

The following different types of disabled parking permits are available in Illinois:

  • Permanent placard or license plate
  • Meter-exempt permanent placard
  • Temporary placard
  • Organization placard
  • Disabled Veterans license plate

You will qualify for a meter-exempt permanent placard if you are a permanently disabled Illinois license-holder who, due to your disability, is unable to:

  • Access parking meters
  • Reach 42 inches above the ground
  • Handle coins due to hand disabilities
  • Walk more than 20 feet at a time
city view in illinois
Image by juergen-polle on Pixabay: How do I get a disabled license plate in Illinois?

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Illinois

What qualifies for disabled parking in Illinois? If a person has one or more of the following disabilities, they will qualify for a permit:

  • Lung disease to such a degree that the person’s forced (respiratory) expiratory volume is one second when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter
  • Use of a portable oxygen device
  • Class III or Class IV cardiac condition according to the standards set by the American Heart Association
  • An inability to walk without the assistance of a wheelchair, walker, crutch, brace, and other prosthetic device or without the assistance of another person
  • Severe limitation in the ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological, oncological, or orthopedic condition
  • An inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest because of one of the above five conditions
  • Missing a hand or arm or has permanently lost the use of a hand or arm

Who Can Certify An Application For Disabled Parking In Illinois?

The following state-licensed medical professionals are qualified to certify a person’s disabled parking permit application in Illinois:

  • Licensed physician
  • Advanced practice nurse
  • Optometrist
  • Physician’s assistant

How Do You Apply For A Disabled Parking Permit In Illinois?

How do I get a disability placard in Illinois? The first step is to have a video consultation with a state-licensed medical professional at the Dr. Handicap online clinic. Once the medical professional verifies your disability, they will complete the medical certification section of the Illinois disability placard application form and email it to you within one working day.

Once you receive the certified application form, complete it and submit it by mail to:

Secretary of State
Persons with Disabilities License Plates/Placard Unit
501 S. Second St., Rm. 541
Springfield, IL 62756

Applications for a temporary disabled parking permit can be mailed to the above address or submitted in person at any Secretary of State facility.

night view of chicago illinois
Image by rlobes on Pixabay: How do I get a disability placard in Illinois?

How Do I Get A Disabled License Plate In Illinois?

You can get a disabled parking license plate if you are:

  • Permanently disabled and you own your own car
  • The parent and guardian of disabled children
  • An immediate family member who lives at the same address as a disabled person that you care for
  • An organization that transports disabled people
  • Disabled Veteran

If you want a disabled parking license plate, you’ll need to state this on your application form.

Illinois Disabled Parking Rules And Regulations

  • Disabled parking permit holders from all US states can park in designated disabled parking spaces in Illinois
  • Permit holders must pay to park at metered, on-street parking spaces, unless they hold a yellow and grey meter-exempt permanent placard
  • It is illegal to park in any areas that are reserved for emergency vehicles or commercial vehicles, or are signposted as “No Parking”
  • Disabled parking placards must be clearly displayed by hanging from the rearview mirror while a vehicle is parked in a disabled parking space
  • Permit holders from Canada, Mexico, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Switzerland are allowed to use disabled parking infrastructure in Illinois

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Get Your Disabled Parking Permit Online In California

Every disabled driver can benefit from a disabled parking permit. A California disabled parking permit gives you access to specific reserved parking spaces at your destination, giving you some extra peace of mind when you head out on the road. The good news is that applying for your disabled parking permit in the Golden State is a simple process. Read on for more information on how to get your disabled parking permit online in California.

How do I get a disabled parking permit in California?

To get a disabled parking permit in California, you need to have a qualifying medical condition. There are many conditions that qualify for a disabled parking permit in California, including:

  • Loss of limb
  • Severe vision impairment
  • Restrictions due to a specific lung disease or respiratory condition
  • Decreased mobility, including the requirement of a cane, walker, or other mobility aid
  • Being a disabled Veteran, suffering from:
    • Permanent blindness
    • Loss of use of one or more limbs
    • Inability to move without an assisting device
disabled parking signage
Image by Jakub Pabis on Unsplash: Can I get a disabled placard at AAA in California? Read on to find out where you can submit your application.

Depending on the medical condition you have, you may be granted any one of the following types of parking permit:

  • Permanent placards – Expire in two years
  • Temporary placards – Expire in six months, or the date specified by your physician
  • Disabled person license plates – Only available for people with a vehicle registered in their name
  • Disabled veteran license plates – Only available to those who meet specific requirements related to their service
  • Travel placards – Available to disabled people who are leaving or entering California for a specified length of time

CA Disability Placard Application

If you have a qualifying condition, the application process for a California disabled parking permit is not difficult. The first thing to do is to simply organise a consultation with a licensed state physician (Dr Handicap can help with this step!), which takes roughly 10 minutes.

During this appointment, the physician will discuss your medical history and your current condition with you to ensure you qualify for a disabled parking permit. They will then certify that you meet the legal requirements for a parking permit on your application form. This form must be completed in its entirety with your personal details before it is submitted for processing at your local DMV (along with any relevant fees).

Get Your Disabled Parking Permit Online In California

Dr Handicap can help you to connect with a licensed state physician for a consultation via telemedicine, which can be done entirely online, from the comfort of your own home. However, the application form (certified by your physician) must be submitted either in person at your local California Department of Motor Vehicles or by mail.

While some states allow application for a disabled parking permit online, in California this is not the case. But once you have submitted your completed application by either of the two means above, you’ll receive your CA disabled parking permit in no time.

using laptop
Image by fancycrave1 on Pixabay: How do you complete the disability placard application California has in place?

You don’t need to renew a permanent handicap placard, as this happens automatically. If you have a temporary placard, you should renew it before its expiry to ensure your placard remains legal.

Failure to correctly display your disabled parking permit or placard when parked in a disabled parking space is an offence, even if you suffer from a visible disability. In fact, those who see a vehicle parked unlawfully in disabled parking zones are encouraged to alert law enforcement, which can result in a fine or sometimes even imprisonment for those responsible.

In general, California is a very disabled parking-friendly state. Not only can you park in assigned disabled parking spots, but there are numerous other benefits too. You have access to free metered parking, as well as limitless parking hours in green-curb spaces and areas designated for merchants or residents. This makes navigating urban areas so much easier and less stressful for disabled drivers.

All in all, the application process for a California disabled parking permit is not complicated. Once you complete the various steps and meet the requirements, you’re on your way! Contact Dr Handicap today to get your disabled parking permit online in California.

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Get Your Disabled Parking Permit Online In Arkansas

The Arkansas disability placard application process is simple to navigate and user-friendly. But can you get your disabled parking permit online in Arkansas? Let’s find out…

How To Get Your Disabled Parking Permit Online In Arkansas

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration is the organization responsible for providing disabled parking permits to residents of Arkansas. You can complete most of the Arkansas disabled parking permit application process online. You can download the application form instead of picking it up in-person, and you can also have your medical consultation online at a telemedicine clinic such as Dr. Handicap.

What Types Of Disability Parking Permits Are Available in Arkansas?

Arkansas offers the following types of disabled parking permits:

  • Permanent disabled parking placard
  • Permanent disabled parking license plate
  • Temporary disabled parking placard
  • Disabled parking motorcycle license plate
  • Organization disabled parking permit (for organizations that transport disabled people)
  • Disabled Veterans license plate (for people who have disabilities that are military service-related)
person using computer
Image by VisionPics on Pixabay: Can you get your disabled parking permit online in Arkansas?

What Are the Qualifying Conditions For An Arkansas Disabled Parking Permit?

A person will qualify for an Arkansas disabled parking permit if they have any of the following disabilities:

  • They cannot walk one hundred (100) feet without stopping to rest
  • They cannot walk without the use of or assistance from a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or other assistive device
  • They are restricted by lung disease to such an extent that their 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
  • They use portable oxygen
  • They have a cardiac condition to the extent that their functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to standards set by the American Heart Association
  • They have a spinal cord injury
  • They have a genetic ambulatory disorder
  • They have an amputation
  • They have spina bifida
  • They have multiple sclerosis
  • They have chronic heart disease
  • They have any other permanent medical condition that substantially impacts their mobility

What Medical Professionals Can Certify An Application For Disabled Parking In Arkansas?

Only a state-licensed physician can certify an application for a disabled parking permit in Arkansas.

How Do I Apply For Disabled Parking In Arkansas?

So, how do I get a disabled placard in Arkansas? The first step is to have a video consultation with a licensed physician using a telemedicine clinic such as Dr. Handicap. Once the examining physician certifies your disability, they will sign an application form and email it to you.

You will then need to complete the application form and submit it along with proof of identity (Social Security number, Arkansas driver’s license number, Arkansas state ID card number) and any necessary payment in person at any AR revenue office, or by mail to:

Department of Finance and Administration
Special License Unit
P.O. Box 1272
Little Rock, AR 72203

How Much Does An Arkansas Disabled Parking Permit Cost?

Permanent and temporary disabled parking placards in Arkansas are free. Disabled parking license plates cost the standard registration fee.

When Does An Arkansas Disability Placard Expire?

A permanent Arkansas disabled parking placard expires four years from the last day of the month in which it was issued. A temporary placard expires three months from the last day of the month in which it was issued.

street in little rock arkansas
Image by Brandon Johnson on Unsplash: How do I apply for disabled parking in Arkansas?

How Do I Renew My Arkansas Disabled Parking Permit?

You renew an Arkansas disabled parking permit by submitting a new application form to the Department of Finance and Administration. Permanent disabled permit-holders do not need to provide new medical certification to renew. Temporary permits cannot be renewed. This means a new temporary permit must be applied for and new medical certification is required.

Arkansas Disabled Parking Rules And Regulations

  • Arkansas disabled permits are valid in all US states and several foreign countries
  • Holders of disabled permits from all US states can use Arkansas disabled parking infrastructure
  • Disabled permit holders can park in any designated disabled parking space in Arkansas
  • Disabled placards must be clearly visible hung from the rearview mirror when a vehicle is parked
  • A vehicle can only park in a disabled space when the disabled parking permit-holder is traveling in the vehicle
  • It is illegal for permit holders to park in any spaces that are reserved for commercial vehicles, emergency vehicles, or areas signposted “No Parking”

Featured image by TheShiv76 on Pixabay

9 Things That Safe Drivers Do

How do I become a super-safe driver? This is a question that all disabled drivers should be asking themselves. Driving is convenient and often enjoyable – but it can also be dangerous if not done properly and sensibly.

On the road, every driver faces an ever-present risk of accident, injury and even death. Driving safely and arming yourself with the skills to keep yourself and your passengers safe is extremely important.

So, what does a safe driver do whenever they’re on the road? What skills do safe drivers have? And how can you be a smart and safe driver every time you get behind the wheel? Today, we’ll be talking about some key things that safe drivers do.

1. Safe Drivers Don’t Rely On Other Road Users To Drive Safely

Safe drivers take full responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their passengers. They don’t rely on other road users to behave responsibly at all times, because unfortunately, this often isn’t the case.

Other drivers may do dangerous and irresponsible things on the road from time to time, so it’s always essential that you keep a safe distance from other cars and pedestrians, stay alert to your surroundings, and expect the unexpected.

2. Safe Drivers Avoid Distraction

Distracted driving is often lethal. Many people get into accidents every year on US roads as a result of their own or another road user’s distracted driving. Safe drivers never allow themselves to be distracted while driving.

To avoid distraction, never use your phone while driving, avoid loud audio, and make sure passengers are calm and sensibly behaved.

person driving on snowy road
Image by Jaromír Kavan on Unsplash: What skills do safe drivers have?

3. Safe Drivers Become Experts At Defensive Driving

Safe drivers always drive defensively and are always improving their driving skills. Defensive driving means:

  • Always having safety as a first priority
  • Being very aware of your surroundings
  • Never relying on good driving from other road users
  • Maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front
  • Driving at a safe speed
  • Avoiding distractions

4. Safe Drivers Never Drive When Drowsy

Drowsy driving leads to thousands of deaths on the road every year. Safe drivers know that when they feel drowsy, it’s essential to take a break, have a nap, and/or refresh themselves with some cool air or a cup of coffee.

5. Safe Drivers Never Drive Under The Influence Of Alcohol Or Drugs

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is an extremely dangerous and irresponsible thing to do. Safe drivers only drive when they are sober. If you’re planning to drink when you go out, be sure to have another method of transport arranged so you won’t be tempted to get behind the wheel.

6. Safe Drivers Drive Safe, Well-Maintained Vehicles

Safe drivers always make sure that their vehicle is well-maintained, fully serviced, and in perfect working order. Safe drivers also use the appropriate vehicle modifications they need if they have a disability.

7. Safe Drivers Keep Suitable Emergency Equipment In Their Vehicle

Safe drivers always have the following essential safety equipment in their vehicle:

  • First aid kit
  • Drinking water
  • Emergency food
  • Back-up medication
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Duct tape
  • Cell phone and car mobile phone charge
  • Spare tire, tripod jack, wheel wrench
  • Tool kit
  • Jumper cables
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Reflective triangles and a reflective vest
  • Warm clothes and blankets
  • Snow shovel, snow brush, cat litter for traction
  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Coolant fluid
  • Oil
person driving vehicle
Image by JacksonDavid on Pixabay: How do I become a super-safe driver?

8. Safe Drivers Know What Weather Conditions To Expect

Driving in adverse weather conditions can be risky. Safe drivers always know what weather to expect on their journey and how to deal with whatever Mother Nature throws at them.

9. Safe Drivers Always Have Their Disabled Parking Permit

Safe drivers who are disabled always make sure to have their disabled parking permit with them. You can only use disabled parking if you have your permit and display it clearly, hanging from the rearview mirror.

How Do I Get A Disabled Parking Permit?

To get a disabled parking permit, you should submit an application form to your local disabled parking authorities. This will usually be your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The first step is to have a video consultation with a physician or other medical professional licensed in your state. This can be arranged through the Dr. Handicap online clinic.

Once you have completed your consultation and your suitability for disabled parking has been verified, the physician will email you a certified copy of your state’s disabled parking application form. You will then complete the form and submit it, along with any necessary payment and proof of ID, to your local disabled parking authorities.

Whether you submit your application to your local DMV office or to the tax collector’s office will depend on which state you are applying in. You can submit your application either in person or by mail, and in a growing number of states, you can submit your application online.

Featured image by Art Markiv on Unsplash

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Hawaii

Hawaii has a well-managed and user-friendly disabled parking program. The Aloha State is well stocked with disabled parking infrastructure, which improves accessibility to public and private amenities and buildings for people with various disabilities.

So what are the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Hawaii? What types of disabled parking permits are available in Hawaii? And how do you apply for a disabled parking permit in Hawaii? Read on for all the info you need.

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Hawaii

So, what qualifies for a disability placard in Hawaii? There are several conditions that will qualify you for a disabled parking permit in Hawaii, including one or more of the following:

  • You cannot walk 200 feet without having to stop and rest due to an arthritic, neurological, orthopedic, oncological, renal, or vascular condition
  • You have a respiratory condition such that your forced expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter, or your arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty mm/hg on room air at rest
  • You have a heart condition designated as Class III or Class IV by the American Heart Association
  • You cannot walk without the aid of a brace, crutch, walker, artificial lower limbs, cane, another person, or wheelchair
  • You have a condition that requires the use of a portable oxygen tank
honolulu hawaii
Image by 12019 on Pixabay: What are the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking permit in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s list of qualifying conditions is relatively limited compared to many other US states. Unlike in other states, in Hawaii you do not qualify for a disabled parking permit if you have a visual impairment, have an upper limb amputation, are deaf, are pregnant, or if you have a mental illness or a behavioral, learning, intellectual, or developmental disability.

How Hard Is It To Get A Disability Placard In Hawaii?

If you have a condition that qualifies you to get a Hawaii disabled parking permit, the application process is straightforward. However, unlike in most other US states, application forms cannot be submitted online and must instead be submitted by mail or in person at a Satellite City Hall.

What Types of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available In Hawaii?

The following types of disabled parking permits are available in Hawaii:

  • Long-term disability placards (blue) and license plates – for people whose disabilities are expected to last at least six years
  • Temporary disability placards (red) – valid for up to six months

How Do I Get A Disabled Parking Permit In Hawaii?

The first step when applying for a Hawaii disabled parking permit is to have a consultation with a state-licensed physician. This can be done remotely using the Dr. Handicap online clinic.

Once the physician has verified your disability, they will email you a certified copy of the Hawaii Disabled Parking Permit Application Form (form PA-3). You can then complete the form and submit it to the Hawaii Department of Health, either in-person at your local Satellite City Hall or by mail to:

Motor Vehicle Licensing & Permits
ATTN: Special Services Section
P.O. Box 30310
Honolulu, HI 96820

How Do I Get A Disabled License Plate In Hawaii?

You can request a disabled license plate in Hawaii if you have a long-term disability and qualify for a permanent disabled parking permit. Simply request a disabled license plate on your application form. Disabled Veterans also qualify for disabled license plates in Hawaii.

city with rainbow hawaii
Image by little plant on Unsplash: How do you get a disabled parking permit in Hawaii?

Do You Have To Pay For Parking With A Disability Placard In Hawaii?f

Hawaii disabled parking permit holders can park for free in designated disabled parking spaces. These spaces are signposted and marked with the International Symbol of Access.

Parking in metered spaces in Hawaii is not free for permit-holders. However, some people qualify for a Disabled Paid Parking Exemption Permit (DPPEP). A DPPEP entitles its holder to park in metered spaces for free for up to 2.5 hours.

To qualify for a DPPEP you must:

  • Be unable to reach above your head to a height of 42 inches from the ground due to a lack of finger, hand, or upper extremity strength or mobility;
  • Be unable to approach a parking meter due to use of a wheelchair or other mobility device; or
  • Be unable to manage, manipulate, and insert coins, bills, or cards in a parking meter or pay station due to a lack of fine motor control in both hands.

To apply for a DPPEP, you can submit an application form to:

DCAB
P.O. Box 3377
Honolulu
HI 96801

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