Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Connecticut

The beautiful New England state of Connecticut is a great place to live, but how does it stack up when it comes to disabled parking? Don’t worry – drivers will find the application process for a disability parking permit in Connecticut to be simple and straightforward.

Depending on the nature of your disability, the state issues both temporary and permanent disability placards, which you’ll hang on your rearview mirror whenever you’re parked. The state of Connecticut’s disabled parking regulations allow permit holders to park in any of the state’s accessible spaces on either public or private property.

But how do you know if you qualify for either a temporary or permanent permit? Here’s a handy guide to qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Connecticut, as well as some info on how you can apply.

What conditions qualify for disabled parking in Connecticut?

If you’re newly disabled or have just moved to CT, it helps to know which conditions qualify for a disabled permit. These conditions are outlined by the State of Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Generally, any serious health issue that impacts your mobility will qualify, whether that’s on a short-term or permanent basis. To obtain medical approval for a temporary or permanent placard, you’ll need to have one or more of the following conditions:

Legal blindness
The need to use a portable oxygen tank
Limited use of one or both legs, or an inability to use either leg
A muscular or neurological condition that limits your ability to move
Inability to walk more than 200 feet without needing to stop
Severe walking limitations due to a neurological, orthopedic, or orthopedic condition
Heart issues that are classified as a Class III or IV cardiac condition by the American Heart Association
Lung disease

doctor with phone conducting telehealth consultation — *Image by Ivan Samkov on Pexels: A medical professional can help you determine your eligibility for a disabled parking placard in Connecticut.*

What if you’ve been injured, unwell, or recently had surgery that makes it hard for you to move normally? Don’t worry – as long as you meet one of the above requirements on a temporary basis, you’ll still be eligible for assistance.

The above qualifying conditions apply to disabled drivers, passengers, and motorcyclists (who are eligible for a motorcycle license plate with the International Symbol of Access). They also apply to minors, who may not be able to drive themselves but still require assistance as a passenger.

If you’re unsure as to whether or not you qualify, the best option is to ask your doctor or speak with a licensed telehealth practitioner.

How do I prove my disability?

To ensure disability permit holders have a genuine need, your application will need approval from a medical professional. This is to stop people from applying for disabled parking permits when they don’t actually need one.

Within the state of CT, your condition can be certified by any one of these licensed health care workers:

Physician or physician’s assistant
Optometrist
Ophthalmologist
Psychiatrist
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
A member of the Connecticut Board of Services and Education for the Blind

If you were disabled as a result of your military service, a VA disability certificate may also be accepted. Your local VA health service can tell you more about the process. Veterans may also qualify for disabled veterans plates, which also often allow the driver to park in metered parking for free or for longer than the specified amount of time.

What is the cost to apply for a disabled permit?

In Connecticut, there is no fee for permanent disabled parking permits. Temporary permits have a $5 application fee, which will need to be paid again if your permit expires and you reapply. Temporary placards are valid for up to six months from the date of issue.

Is there a cost if you lose your placard? The situation is the same as with application fees: permanent permits are replaced for free, but temporary permits are charged a $5 fee.

connecticut nature — *Image by Christopher Luther on Unsplash: A disabled parking placard will make it easier for you to safely explore the beauty of Connecticut.*

How do I get a disability parking permit in CT?

Once you’re sure you qualify, download the Temporary Permit or Permanent Permit form, depending on which one is applicable. You can also pick up the forms in person at the DMV.

You’ll complete Part A of the application form yourself, while Part B needs to be completed by a medical professional, as mentioned above. They’ll certify that you have a genuine need for a disabled parking permit and will sign off on your form.

Then, return the form in one of the following ways:

Mail: Department of Motor Vehicles
Disabled Parking Permit Unit
60 State Street
Wethersfield, CT 06161

Fax: 860-263-5556

Email: [email protected]

Note that temporary permits can’t be emailed or faxed in, since they require an application fee. Both temporary and permanent placards can be applied for in person, but you’ll first need to make an appointment with your local DMV branch. If your temporary permit expires, you can’t renew it, but you can reapply for another one.

After approval, you’ll receive your new Connecticut disabled placard, making it possible for you to safely and easily park anywhere in the state.

Featured image by Alex Jones on Unsplash

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Arkansas

If you’re living in Arkansas, you know that this beautiful midwestern state is famous for its hot springs, agriculture, and lakes. But to best enjoy all the state has to offer as a disabled driver, it helps if you can use accessible parking.

How do you get a disabled parking permit in Arkansas? As with most states, the process is luckily very straightforward, whether you need a disabled parking placard on a permanent or temporary basis.

The first step is working out if you’re eligible for a disability permit, which will allow you to legally park in any handicapped parking space throughout the state. Here’s a guide to help you understand which conditions qualify, plus how you can apply.

waterfall in arkansas — *Image by Claud Richmond on Unsplash: Arkansas drivers can better access the state’s parks and attractions with an accessible parking pass.*

What are the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Arkansas?

To qualify for a disabled permit, drivers must either have a disability or be a carer or driver for someone with a disability. In most cases, a caregiver can drive a car and park in a disabled space, as long as they have the disabled passenger in the vehicle and clearly display their placard.

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration sets out the qualifying conditions for drivers in the state. To be eligible for a permit, you (or your passenger) must meet at least one of the following conditions:

Unable to walk more than 100 feet without needing to stop and rest
Unable to walk without a walking aid, such as crutches, a cane, a brace, a wheelchair, a prosthetic device, or the help of another person
Require use of a portable oxygen device
A Class III or Class IV cardiac condition, as categorized by the American Heart Association, or another chronic heart condition
Limited lung capacity due to lung disease
Amputation
A genetic condition that impacts your ability to walk
Multiple sclerosis
A spinal cord injury
Spina bifida
Any other health condition that causes impaired mobility, as specified by a medical professional

Note that military veterans are also able to qualify for Disabled Veteran Specialty Plates, which allows drivers who are disabled as a result of their service to park in disabled spaces. Your local Veterans Administration can help you apply.

How do I know if I’m eligible?

Unsure if your disability is eligible? In that case, the best thing you can do is talk to a health professional, such as your family doctor or specialist, or arrange a telehealth consultation.

Because the state of Arkansas requires medical approval for all disability permits, you’ll need to have a chat with a doctor anyway as part of the application process.

What if my health condition is only temporary?

The state of Arkansas offers both permanent and temporary parking placards. For those with a permanent disability, a permanent placard is valid for up to four years before it needs to be renewed.

However, drivers who are temporarily disabled or injured, such as someone recovering from surgery or an accident, can apply for a temporary placard, which is valid for up to three months.

If you still need assistance after three months, you can reapply for a new placard. Both permanent and temporary placards are free, so you won’t need to pay an application fee.

person in wheelchair using phone — *Image by SHVETS production on Pexels: You can find a copy of the Arkansas disabled parking permit application online.*

How do I apply for my Arkansas disabled parking permit?

Once you’re ready to get started, download a copy of the Arkansas disability placard form. This is officially called the Application for Persons with a Disability License Plates (Form 10-366).

As the driver, you’ll need to make an appointment with a medical professional to complete part of the form on your behalf. This is required to ensure all applicants have a genuine need for a disability permit. Don’t worry though, as this process shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. Essentially, the doctor has to specify which medical condition you have, then they’ll have to sign and date the form.

After your application is complete, you can send it in by mail or in person at any Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicles. You’ll also need to show proof of identification, which can include your Social Security number or your Arkansas license or state ID card.

You can learn more about the Arkansas handicap placard application process here.

Where can I park with my new disabled parking placard?

After you’ve obtained your new placard, you’re ready to go! All you need to do is ensure you display your placard on your rear-view mirror when parked. Arkansas disabled parking laws state that you can park in any disabled space as long as your placard is displayed. The placard is only for yourself, so you can’t loan it out to friends or family – fines apply for improper use.

If you or a loved one have any questions about the application process, we are here to help! Get in touch today.

Featured image by Brandon Johnson on Unsplash

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Colorado

Today we’re here to talk about all things disabled parking in Colorado! Let’s go over the different types of permits and the specific qualifying conditions that entitle a person to get a Colorado disabled parking permit.

What Do You Need To Get A Disability Placard In Colorado?

People with various categories of disabilities qualify for a disabled parking permit in Colorado. Disabilities that qualify for Colorado disabled parking are defined as follows:

Permanent: A condition that is not expected to change within a person’s lifetime.
Extended: A condition that is not expected to change within 30 months after the issuance of plates or placards.
Temporary: A condition that is expected to last less than 30 months after the issuance of plates or placards.
Short Term: A condition that is not expected to last more than 90 days after the issuance of a placard.

aerial view of denver colorado — *Image by Andrew Coop on Unsplash: What are the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Colorado? Read on to find out.*

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

So, what conditions qualify for disabled parking in Colorado? A person will qualify if they are disabled in one or more of the following ways:

They cannot walk 200 feet without needing to stop to rest.
They cannot walk without the use of an assistive device such as a crutch, cane, brace, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or another person.
They are restricted by lung disease to such an extent that their 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 or at rest.
They use portable oxygen.
They have a cardiac condition that is classified as Class III or IV by the American Heart Association.
They have a severely limited ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.

What Types Of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available In Colorado?

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

Three-Year Disabled Placard or Plates – for people with extended or permanent disabilities.
Temporary Disabled Placard – for people with short-term disabilities.
Remuneration-Exempt Disability Placard – for people who have lost fine motor control in both hands; are unable to reach a height of 48 inches from the ground due to lack of finger, hand, or upper extremity strength or mobility; or are unable to reach a parking meter due to the use of a wheelchair or other ambulatory device.
Disabled Veterans license plates

How Do You Get A Disabled Parking Permit In Colorado?

So, how do you make a disability placard application in Colorado? Fortunately, it is a quick and easy process. Firstly, visit the Dr. Handicap online clinic and schedule a video consultation with a medical professional. Both you and the medical professional will complete the relevant sections of an application form.

Completed application forms must be submitted to the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles. In Colorado, applications can be submitted in person, by mail, or through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles website.

Who Can Certify An Application For A Disability Placard Application in Colorado?

The following medical professionals can certify an application for a disabled parking permit in Colorado:

Licensed physician
Commissioned Medical Officer of the U.S. Armed Forces, the U.S. Public Health Service, and/or the U.S. Veterans Administration
Advanced Practice Nurse
Physician’s Assistant
Podiatrist
Chiropractor (short-term permit only)
Physical Therapist (short-term permit only)

When Does A Disabled Parking Permit Expire In Colorado?

Colorado three-year disabled permits expire, as the name suggests, after three years. Colorado temporary placards expire after 90 days. Temporary placards can only be renewed once.

How Do You Renew A Disabled Permit In Colorado?

Once your Colorado disabled parking permit expires, you can renew it by submitting an application form to the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles. There is no fee to renew Colorado disabled placards.

New medical certification is required when renewing if the applicant has a temporary or short-term disability. People with a permanent disability need to get medical certification on every third renewal.

doctor in lab coat with stethescope — *Image by Gustavo Fring on Pexels: Who can certify an application for a disability placard application in Colorado?*

What Are The Colorado Disabled Parking Laws?

Colorado disabled parking laws allow a permit holder to park in any designated disabled parking space in the state. Holders of out-of-state disabled permits are also entitled to use Colorado disabled parking infrastructure.

Where Can You Use A Colorado Disabled Parking Permit?

Colorado disabled parking permits are available in all US states, all US overseas territories, and the following countries:

Canada
Mexico
UK
EU
Japan
Australia
New Zealand

Featured image by Arpan Parikh on Pexels

Qualifying Conditions For A Handicap Parking Permit In Alaska

For drivers with disabilities, having a disability placard can make life much easier. This is particularly important for disabled drivers in Alaska, since the state’s frigid climate means snow, ice, and below-freezing temperatures can make mobility and accessibility even more challenging.

If you live in Alaska and have a disability, you may qualify for a disabled parking permit. Alaska handicap parking laws allow drivers with a permanent or temporary disability permit or license plate to legally park in any disabled parking space, as long as their permits are valid and haven’t expired.

If you or someone you love lives in “The Last Frontier,” here are the qualifying conditions for a handicap parking permit in Alaska, plus all you need to know about how to apply.

What qualifies for a handicap placard in Alaska?

Alaska’s Division of Motor Vehicles outlines the qualifying conditions for a disability permit, and to qualify, you must meet at least one of their requirements. However, some of them can apply to a range of different health conditions.

If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, book a telehealth consultation with a health professional to discuss your situation, or visit your family doctor. Because medical approval is required for disabled parking permits in Alaska, a doctor is best placed to examine your medical history and determine which of the requirements you would be eligible for.

car driving on road in alaska — *Image by Roman on Unsplash: Driving and parking in Alaska will be much safer with the help of a disability placard.*

Here are the requirements within Alaska:

You’re unable to walk more than 200 feet without needing to stop or rest
Health issues due to lung disease
You require the use of a portable oxygen machine or tank
You’re unable to walk safely without the help of an aid, such as a cane, crutches, a wheelchair, the help of a carer, or you require the use of a prosthetic device
You have a Class III or Class IV heart condition, as set out by the American Heart Association
You have a medical condition that makes it challenging or impossible to walk. This could be related to arthritis, orthopedic issues, or neurological conditions.

You don’t need to have a permanent health condition to qualify for a permit, as Alaska offers temporary placards with a validity of six months. This is to assist drivers who have a short-term mobility limitation, due to conditions such as surgery or illness. For temporary disabled drivers, your medical professional will give set start and end dates, which lets the DMV know how long you’ll need access to a disability placard.

Temporary disabled drivers will be given a placard to display on their rearview mirror, while those with permanent disabilities will have either a placard or a special disability license plate.

If you’re a carer for someone with a disability, who is unable to drive themselves, you can apply for a permit on their behalf. A carer can drive and park in any disabled parking space, but only when they’re with the person they’re caring for. Organizations and medical facilities can also qualify for a permit to use when transporting disabled clients or members.

Note that veterans are also able to qualify for a special disability placard within Alaska. To qualify, you’ll need a letter from Veterans Affairs affirming that you have a disability that relates to your time in the service. Veterans are also eligible for disabled veterans’ license plates.

How do I get a handicap parking permit in Alaska?

Don’t worry – Alaska makes its application system straightforward and simple to understand! First, obtain a copy of the Alaska DMV handicap form, known as Form 861. You can find it online or at your local DMV office.

Complete Part I of the form yourself, outlining your personal contact details. Part II needs to be completed by an authorized medical professional – this is simply to prove you have a genuine need and to prevent people from taking advantage of the disability permit system.

Part II can be completed by one of the following medical professionals:

Physician or physician assistant
Nurse practitioner
Podiatrist

They’ll sign off on your form, indicate which requirement you meet, and provide their occupational license number.

person submitting application online — *Image by John Schnobrich on Unsplash: You can download the forms you need for your Alaska disability permit online and a caregiver can help you, if necessary.*

Part III of the form is for DMV use only, so leave that blank. Then, submit the completed form at your local DMV office or by mail:

Division of Motor Vehicles
ATTN: Special Disability Parking Permit
3901 Old Seward Highway, Suite 101
Anchorage, AK 99503

There is no charge for either a disabled placard or license plate. However, if you need a second set, you’re required to pay a $100 application fee.

And what about handicap placard renewal? Permanent placards need to be renewed every five years. Temporary placards are usually valid for six months, but you can easily reapply if you have a genuine need.

With your Alaska disability placard, you can enjoy the rugged, dramatic beauty of the state safely. Download your application form and get started – once you submit your forms, your placard will arrive quickly and you’ll be good to go!

Featured image by Jacob Vizek on Unsplash

How Can I Get A Temporary Handicap Placard?

There are many types of disabled parking placards, so how do you know which type is right for your needs? It can be confusing, but the answer all comes down to your personal circumstances.

Each state governs its own parking placard system, but generally, red placards are for temporary disabilities, dark blue placards are permanent, and light blue are for wheelchair users. Due to the legal requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, both public and private businesses need to have a minimum number of disabled parking spots, so you should always be able to find them.

You can also sometimes find specific parking permits for veterans and for international visitors. However, if you have a temporary injury or disability, you probably need a temporary handicap placard. Here’s what you need to know about how to get one.

What is a temporary handicap placard?

A temporary handicap placard is just as it sounds: it’s a permit that lets drivers with a temporary disability park in disabled spaces for the validity of the pass. In some cases, this might be six months, while others might only be valid for a duration specified by your doctor.

This is in contrast to a permanent handicap permit, which is generally good forever (although may need to be renewed every few years).

person in wheelchair using laptop for online consultation — *Image by SHVETS Production on Pexels: You can download the forms you need online for your temporary handicap placard application.*

What are the qualifying conditions for a temporary handicap placard?

Each state controls what qualifies for a temporary handicap permit, so if you’re unsure, the best thing to do is always check with your doctor or your state government.

However, in general terms, here are some of the qualifying health conditions that would make you eligible:

Inability to walk without needing to stop or rest, due to a temporary mobility condition like a broken or injured foot, back or spine injuries, or limited mobility while recovering from surgery
Any health condition that requires a walking aid, like crutches or a wheelchair
Need for an oxygen tank
Temporary heart or lung conditions
Any other temporary physical or mental health condition that restricts your mobility

If you’re expecting, you may wonder if you can get a temporary handicap parking permit for pregnancy. If your pregnancy has prevented you from moving about normally, then yes, most doctors will happily sign off on your approval for a temporary placard.

However, you can’t park in a disabled space without a placard, even if you’re pregnant – you’ll need to first apply for and receive the placard. (In recent years, many stores have started reserving spaces near the entrance for pregnant people or families, so utilizing these spots could be another option.)

How long will my temporary disabled parking permit be valid for?

In most cases, temporary handicap placards are valid for six months from the date of issue, or for a specific duration specified by your doctor.

However, if you end up needing your permit for longer than that, you can apply for another, as long as you have support from your doctor.

How to apply for a temporary handicap placard

So how can I get a temporary handicap placard? Here’s a general overview of the process. Note that each state may require slightly different paperwork, and the application fees will also vary.

1. Visit your state DMV website or office to determine which form is needed

Since each state has slightly different requirements, you’ll first need to do some research to find out what paperwork is required. Check the website for your state’s DMV office or give them a call – they can let you know what you need.

Print off the correct form so you can take it with you to your medical appointment, which is the next step.

pregnant woman — *Image by Arteida MjESHTRI on Unsplash: If your pregnancy is limiting your mobility, you’ll qualify for a temporary handicap placard.*

2. Get approval from a medical professional

To get your temporary permit, you’ll need sign-off from your doctor or a medical professional. This is to verify that you have a temporary injury or disability that limits your mobility, and that you have a legitimate need for the placard.

This is a simple process and stops people taking advantage of the handicap parking system when they aren’t entitled to use it. You can get your medical approval through a visit to your doctor or through a HIPAA-compliant telehealth consultation.

3. Submit your application

Once you’ve completed your forms, submit your application to the DMV in your state. Some might accept them via email or fax, while others will need to be delivered in person. Most states will require a small application fee as well.

As long as you’ve done everything correctly, your placard should be approved and mailed out to you in just a few days. Keep in mind that it’s only valid for yourself – you can’t share your temporary placard with anyone else.

Keep your permit in a safe place and display it clearly in your car whenever you need to use it. The disabled parking program is designed to make parking easier for anyone with a temporary disability, so a temporary handicap permit will make life much more convenient for you and your carers.

Featured image by Oxana Melis on Unsplash