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

Can I Apply For A Disability Placard Online In Any State?

The quickest and most straightforward method of applying for a disability placard is to do it entirely online from the comfort of your own home. It’s now easier than ever to have a telemedicine consultation with a doctor to have your disability certified. But what about submitting your application to the local disabled parking authorities? Can this be done online in any state? Read on for more information on disabled parking and online applications.

Each State Has Its Own Disabled Parking Program

Disabled parking is a federal law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) stipulates most of the rules and regulations that each state’s disabled parking program must adhere to. While all states adhere to ADA guidelines, each state, and even each jurisdiction within a state, has its own local disabled parking program.

This means that disabled parking rules and protocols can vary depending on where you are in the country. The disability parking permit application process also differs between different jurisdictions. The possibilities for how to submit your application vary state-by-state.

person using tablet for online application
Image by cuncon on Pixabay: Can I get a disability placard online?

Can I Get A Disability Placard Online?

So, is it possible to apply for a disability placard online? The answer to this depends entirely on where in the country you will be making your application. Unfortunately, most US states do not yet allow online disabled parking permit applications.

In some of the most populous states in the nation – California, New York, Texas, Florida – applications can still only be submitted by mail or in person. But in a growing number of states (for example, Colorado and Connecticut), it is now possible to submit your disabled parking permit application online.

Who Issues Disability Placards Online?

In states that allow online disabled permit applications, you will be submitting your application to the local disabled parking authorities. This will usually be the local Department of Motor Vehicles or its equivalent (for example, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles).

What Types Of Handicap Permits Are Available Online?

You can apply for the following types of disabled parking permits in every state:

  • Permanent disabled parking placard or license plates
  • Temporary disabled parking placard
  • Organizational disabled parking permit (for organizations and institutions that transport disabled people)
  • Disabled Veterans license plate (for people who have a disability that is partly military service-related)

How To Apply For Disability Placards Online

So, how do I apply for a disability placard online? First, you will need to have a telemedicine consultation with a licensed medical professional. This can be arranged through the Dr. Handicap online clinic.

Once your suitability for a disability placard has been verified, the medical professional will complete the relevant sections of a disabled parking application form and email it to you. You will then complete the application and submit it to your local disabled parking authorities, either through their website or by email.

What Medical Conditions Qualify You To Get A Disability Placard Online?

The following medical conditions will qualify you for a disability placard in the majority of states:

  • An inability to walk 200 feet without needing to stop to rest
  • An inability to walk without the use of or assistance from an assistance device, including a brace, cane, crutch, wheelchair, another person, or a prosthetic device
  • Lung disease
  • A cardiac condition classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to the American Heart Association
  • A severely limited ability to walk because of an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition
  • The use of portable oxygen
  • A foot disorder that limits or impairs your ability to walk
  • Another debilitating condition that, in the opinion of a qualifying physician, limits or impairs your ability to walk
  • Visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses
  • Visual acuity of more than 20/200 but with a limited field of vision in which the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle of 20 degrees or less

Who Can Certify An Online Application For A Disability Placard?

In the majority of states, any one of the following medical professionals can certify an online application for a disability placard:

  • Physician
  • Physician’s assistant
  • Advanced practice nurse
  • Podiatrist
  • Optometrist
  • Chiropractor

How Much Does A Disability Placard Cost Online?

The cost of a disability placard that you apply for online varies state by state. Some states provide certain types of disability placards, usually permanent placards, free of charge. In some states you must pay a fee for all types of disabled parking placards. The fee will usually range from $5 to $20.

person using laptop
Image by fancycrave1 on Pixabay: What types of handicap permits are available online?

When Should You Renew Your Disabled Parking Permit Online?

When you will need to renew your permit will depend on which state you live in. In most states, temporary disability placards are valid for six months, then a new temporary permit needs to be obtained.

Permanent placards are typically valid for between three and six years. You will usually or receive an email notification a few months prior to your permanent permit’s expiration date. When renewing a permanent permit, you usually don’t need to get new medical certification.

Disabled Parking Rules And Regulations

Disabled parking permits entitle their holders to park in any designated disabled parking space in:

  • Any US state
  • Any US overseas territory
  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • UK
  • EU
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • New Zealand

In most jurisdictions, disabled permit holders are entitled to park in metered, time-restricted, on-street parking spaces for free and for extended or unlimited time. Disabled permit holders are not entitled to park in any places that are marked “No parking at any time” or reserved for commercial or emergency vehicles.

It’s always wise to find out the specific disabled parking rules and regulations in the area you live and in any area you plan to visit.

Featured image by MarieXMartin on Pixabay

What Happens If I Make A Mistake On My Disability Parking Permit Application Form?

Filling out official government forms can be stressful for anyone, but even more so if you have a disability. Whether you have health conditions that impact your stress levels or mobility issues that limit your dexterity, it can be anxiety-inducing to fill out your disabled parking permit form. You may be wondering, “What if I do something wrong? What happens if I make a mistake on my disability parking permit application form? What if the DMV doesn’t approve my application?”

Try not to stress! The state DMVs know how important disabled parking is and want to make sure people in need have the correct permit, so they’re on your side. To help you out, below are some useful tips for the application process – plus, what to do if you happen to make a mistake on your forms.

Tips on how to fill out a disability parking permit application form

Each state controls its own disabled parking permits, but the process works the same almost everywhere. It’s fairly simple and shouldn’t take up too much of your time, but it still helps to be prepared.

Here are a few tips to help you tackle the process.

Take your time

You’ll feel calmer and more capable if you take your time when sitting down to complete your disability permit application. Read through everything first and then fill out the form slowly, ensuring you enter the correct information in the right place. That way, you’ll know what’s required and you’ll be prepared.

Enlist a friend or carer to help

Don’t feel like you need to complete all of the application yourself. It’s completely OK to ask for help from a friend, family member, or carer. They can sit with you and assist, ensuring you’re able to fill out all of the information as needed.

If you’re not able to fill out the form yourself, your helper can enter the information on your behalf.

two people working at desk
Image by Kindel Media on Pexels: Sometimes, having a second set of eyes can help you avoid mistakes.

Gather all the documents you need in advance

Completing your application will be easier if you have everything you need in one place. That way, you won’t be scrambling around to find your license or other necessary details.

First, you’ll need the right paperwork. Wondering where to get a disability parking permit application form? Because disabled parking is controlled by individual states, the easiest way is to look at the Department of Motor Vehicles website for the state you live in or give them a quick phone call.

In addition, you’ll generally need your driver’s license number; your completed medical certification from a medical professional, certifying your eligibility; and the make, model, and license plate number of your car. Don’t worry about the medical certification, though, since it’s easy to obtain for anyone with a qualifying medical condition.

Print out an extra copy

If you feel nervous that you’ll make a mistake with your paperwork, print out an extra form in advance, in case you need it. Or keep some white correction fluid or tape nearby so you can erase any mistakes and write over them.

Understand the next steps

After you’ve completed your application, be sure you know what happens next! Make sure you know the answers to each question:

Where do I submit my disability parking permit application form?

The answer will depend on your state, but you’ll usually need to submit via email or fax, or drop it off in person at your local DMV office.

Where do I mail my DMV application for a disabled person placard?

Usually, this will be sent to your state’s DMV head office. If you’re unsure of their address, check their website or give them a call to double-check.

What happens if I make a mistake on my disability parking permit application form?

So you’ve completed your application, but you look over it one more time and see that you’ve made a mistake. Or you realize that you’ve forgotten something or mailed your application to the wrong place. What can you do? It’s all going to be OK – here’s what to do if something has gone wrong.

Remain calm

First, try to relax! No matter what mistake you’ve made, it’s probably not as big of a deal as you think it is. Take a few deep breaths, try to remain calm, and work out how to fix the issue. A mistake isn’t going to jeopardize your disability permit application, so don’t worry. Small problems like this are easier to solve when you’re feeling calm and level-headed.

two people working on laptop
Image by DocuSign on Unsplash: With the help of your doctor, it’ll be easy to complete your application accurately.

Start over

If you’ve made a mistake with your application, it’s always OK to start over! Simply grab a new application and complete it one more time, discarding the previous one.

Call the DMV and explain the situation

When in doubt, always call or email the DMV for clarification or to explain what’s happened. Maybe you’ve entered your address wrong, forgot to include your application fee, or even sent through your application to the wrong address – whatever the issue, the DMV can give you the correct answers.

Explain to a staff member what mistake has been made and they’ll explain how it can be fixed. Everyone makes mistakes, and you’re probably not the first person to call them about the issue! This also applies if you’ve accidentally lost your disabled permit, since they can give you advice on how to replace it.

Once the problem is solved, your application will be processed and you’ll have your new disability permit before you know it!

Featured image by JESHOOTS-com on Pixabay

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

How To Get Your Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio

Let’s take a look at the process of getting a disabled parking permit in San Antonio, Texas. Below we’ll answer all your questions, including: Is disabled parking free in San Antonio? What types of handicap parking permits are available in San Antonio? How do you get a handicap parking permit in San Antonio? What are the qualifying conditions for a handicap permit in San Antonio? And how do you renew a handicap permit in San Antonio?

Who Issues Disabled Parking Permits In San Antonio?

Disabled parking permits in San Antonio are issued by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Applications for disabled parking permits or license plates in the city should be submitted to a local county tax collector’s office.

Disabled Parking Rules In San Antonio

San Antonio disabled parking permit holders are entitled to park in any designated disabled space in the city. Disabled spaces are marked with signposts that show the International Symbol of Access. Permit holders are also entitled to park in on-street, metered parking spaces for an unlimited amount of time.

river in downtown san antonio texas
Image by Eric Francis on Unsplash: Is disabled parking free in San Antonio?

Is Disabled Parking Free In San Antonio?

Parking is free for disabled permit-holders in San Antonio, both in designated disabled spaces and at metered, on-street spaces.

What Is The Fine For Illegally Parking In A Handicap Spot In San Antonio?

The fines for parking illegally in a disabled parking space in San Antonio range from $500 to $750.

What Types Of Handicap Parking Permits Are Available In San Antonio?

The following handicap parking permits are available in San Antonio:

  • Permanent handicap parking placards (blue)
  • Temporary handicap parking placards (red)
  • Permanent handicap parking license plates
  • Disabled Veterans license plates
  • Institutional handicap parking placard (for institutions and organizations that transport people with disabilities)

How To Get Your Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio

To get a handicap parking permit in San Antonio, first head to the Dr. Handicap online clinic and have a video consultation with a medical professional.

They will verify your disability and sign the relevant section of a Texas DMV disabled parking permit application form. You can then complete the form and submit it to your local tax collector’s office.

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio?

The qualifying conditions for a handicap parking permit in San Antonio are:

  • An inability to walk 200 feet without needing to stop to rest.
  • An inability to walk without the use of or assistance from an assistance device, including a brace, cane, crutch, wheelchair, another person, or a prosthetic device.
  • Lung disease
  • A cardiac condition classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to the American Heart Association.
  • A severely limited ability to walk because of an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.
  • The use of portable oxygen.
  • A foot disorder that limits or impairs a person’s ability to walk.
  • Another debilitating condition that, in the opinion of a qualifying physician, limits or impairs a person’s ability to walk.
  • Visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses.
  • Visual acuity of more than 20/200 but with a limited field of vision in which the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle of 20 degrees or less.

Who Can Verify An Application For A Disabled Permit In San Antonio?

The following medical professionals can verify an application for a disabled permit in San Antonio:

  • Physician
  • Physician’s assistant
  • Advanced practice nurse
  • Podiatrist
  • Optometrist

The medical professional must also meet one of the following conditions:

  • They are licensed in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, or Oklahoma
  • They practice medicine in a U.S. military installation based in Texas
  • They practice medicine in a hospital or health facility of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

How Much Does A Handicap Placard Cost In San Antonio?

Permanent placards are free in San Antonio and Temporary placards cost $5.

downtown san antonio street
Image by Weston MacKinnon on Unsplash: How do you get a handicap parking permit in San Antonio?

How Long Are Handicap Parking Permits Valid In San Antonio?

Permanent disabled parking permits and institutional permits are valid for four years, and temporary disabled parking placards are valid for six months.

How Do You Renew A Handicap Parking Permit In San Antonio?

You renew your disabled permit in San Antonio by submitting a new application form to your local tax collector’s office. If you are applying to renew your permanent permit you do not need a new physician’s signature, but if you are applying for a new temporary permit, you do.

Where Can You Use A San Antonio Handicap Parking Permit?

You can use a San Antonio handicap parking permit in the following jurisdictions:

  • All US states and overseas territories
  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • EU
  • UK
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Japan

Featured image by Chandra Maharzan on Unsplash