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Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Massachusetts

Today we’ll outline the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Massachusetts. We will also explain the application process, who can certify an application, and what types of disabled parking permits are available in the Bay State. Let’s gets started!

Disabled Parking Qualification In Massachusetts

Disabled parking permits in Massachusetts are issued by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, Medical Affairs department. So what qualifies you for a disability placard in MA? You will be eligible for a disabled parking permit in Massachusetts if your mobility is limited due a disability. You will need to have your disability certified by a state-licensed medical professional.

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Massachusetts?

The qualifying conditions for a Massachusetts disabled parking permit are:

An inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest
An inability to walk without the aid of an assistive device such as a crutch, cane, walking stick, Zimmer frame, wheelchair, or another person
Legal blindness
Chronic lung disease to such an extent that your forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than 1 liter
Portable oxygen tank usage
Cardiovascular disease classified as class III or IV by the American Heart Association
Loss of a limb or permanent loss of use of a limb

boston waterfront — *Image by* *bobwright* on *Pixabay: What qualifies you for a disability placard in MA?*

Which Medical Professionals Can Certify A Disability Placard Application In Massachusetts?

The following medical professionals can certify an application for a Massachusetts handicap placard:

Medical doctor
Chiropractor
Registered nurse
Physician assistant
Osteopath
Optometrist (legal blindness only)
Podiatrist

What Types Of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available In Massachusetts?

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

Temporary disability placards
Permanent disability placards
Disability license plates
Disabled Veterans license plates (for people whose disabilities are military service-related)

How To Get Your Disabled Parking Permit In Massachusetts

You can get your Massachusetts disabled parking permit by submitting an application form to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. The application must be signed by a medical professional. You can arrange a telemedicine consultation with a Massachusetts state-licensed medical professional at the Dr. Handicap online clinic.

Application forms can be submitted either in person to your nearest full-service RMV branch office, or by mail to Medical Affairs, PO Box 55889, Boston, MA 02205-55889.

How Much Does A Disability Placard Cost In Massachusetts?

Massachusetts disabled parking placards and disabled veteran license plates are free. License plates cost $60 for two years for a passenger vehicle or $20 for one year for a motorcycle.

How Long Are Disabled Parking Permits Valid In Massachusetts?

Temporary placards are valid for up to 24 months, depending on your doctor’s certification.

Permanent placards are valid for five years. You will be issued a new permanent placard by mail approximately two weeks before your current placard expires.

How Do You Renew A Disabled Parking Permit In Massachusetts?

To renew a temporary placard, you must submit a new application with a new medical certification. Renewal applications must be submitted by mail.

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Is Disabled Parking Free In Massachusetts?

Massachusetts disabled parking permit holders are entitled to park in any designated disabled parking spaces. These spaces are indicated with signs containing the International Symbol of Access. Permit holders are also entitled to park for free in metered, on-street spaces.

What Are The Massachusetts Disability Placard Rules And Regulations?

Permits must be hung from the rearview mirror of a vehicle when it is parked and stowed away while the vehicle is in motion.
Permit holders can park in any disabled space but must not park in spaces that are reserved for emergency vehicles or commercial loading.
Permits must not be shared or loaned to another person.

Misuse of a disabled parking permit can result in a fine of $500 or a license suspension.