A Guide To Disabled Parking In Pennsylvania

Dr Handicap - Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Most people want to find the best parking spot they can when out and about. But for some people with limited mobility, finding a parking space close to an entrance is a necessity. Your best bet if you have issues with mobility due to chronic illness or physical disability is to obtain a disabled parking permit. Here’s what you need to know about disabled parking in Pennsylvania.

Your Options for Disabled Parking in Pennsylvania

Those who need to take advantage of disabled parking in Pennsylvania have two options: a plate or a placard. Disabled parking plates are fairly self-explanatory, since they’re on your vehicle at all times and allow you to park in handicap parking. Disabled parking placards are a bit different. These small hanging tags are placed on your rearview mirror when you’re parked and are available in permanent versions that last up to five years and temporary versions that are good for up to six months. You can also obtain a disabled parking placard in Pennsylvania for veterans and for motorcycles.

Dr Handicap - Pennsylvania street

Image by 12019 on Pixabay: Disabled parking in Pennsylvania is easy to find and to use, so make sure to get your permit if qualified so you can take advantage of it!

Are You Eligible for a Disabled Parking Permit in Pennsylvania?

Your eligibility for a Pennsylvania disabled parking permit is determined by a medical professional, such as a doctor. People who have the following conditions are likely eligible for a disabled parking plate or placard:

  • Cannot walk 200 feet without stopping
  • Uses portable oxygen
  • Is limited in their ability to walk due to an orthopedic, neurological, or arthritic condition
  • Cannot use one arm or both arms fully
  • Is blind
  • Has lung disease that limited respiratory volume
  • Suffers from a heart condition that causes functional limitations as outlined by the American Heart Association
  • Cannot walk with the assistance of a device such as a crutch, cane, wheelchair, or brace

If you’re experiencing one of these conditions, you may be eligible for a Pennsylvania handicap parking permit. Alternatively, if you are the caregiver of someone with these conditions, such as guardian or spouse, then you may qualify as well.

How to Get a Disabled Parking Permit in Pennsylvania

To obtain the proper paperwork for a disabled parking permit in Pennsylvania, you should visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles either in person or online. There are two forms to choose from in order to get the process started, the MV-145A (for disabled parking placards) and MV-145V (for veterans who want plates or placards) forms. There is no fee to obtain a disabled parking permit in Pennsylvania. Simply complete the application and mail it to your local DMV.

Where Can You Park with a Pennsylvania Disabled Parking Permit?

Once you obtain a Pennsylvania handicap parking permit, it allows you to park in designated disabled parking places marked with the international symbol of access. If you need a disabled parking place near your home, however, you need to talk to your local municipality. When they receive a request from someone with a disability for on-street parking, they can arrange to have a sign put up that designated the space for someone with a disability.

With a Pennsylvania disabled parking permit, you can also park for an additional hour in parking with a time limit. Spaces designated as two-hour parking, for example, can be used for up to three hours by a person with a disabled parking placard or plate. It’s always a good idea to check with your local municipality to ensure you’re abiding by all local parking rules and regulations.

Dr Handicap - Pennsylvania

Image by redcastlephotography on Pixabay: With a disabled parking permit in Pennsylvania, you can park in time-restricted parking longer!

If you plan to travel, make sure that you also check with the state you’ll be traveling to in order to find out if your Pennsylvania disabled parking permit is valid in the state. Chances are you can use it just about anywhere you go, but checking beforehand is a good idea.

The process for obtaining a Pennsylvania handicap parking permit and using it in this state is pretty simple. If you need help, then it may be time to contact Dr. Handicap to help you get all your paperwork in order and have access to convenient disabled parking in Pennsylvania.

Featured image by 12019 on Pixabay