What Do The Numbers On A Disabled Parking Permit Mean?

Disabled parking permits are used by people with certain medical conditions to gain access to designated parking spaces, which are often closer to the entrance of buildings or public areas. Each state has its own system for applying for and receiving disabled parking permits, but in general, these permits look similar. However, there are markers that denote certain things on each permit.

So what do the numbers on a disabled parking permit mean? And what is a disabled parking permit identification number, exactly? Here’s everything you need to know about where to find a disabled parking permit identification number and what it means.

Meter-Exempt Permanent Placards

Some states provide permits to those with a permanent disability that exempt them from time limitations and payment at metered parking.

These permits have an identification number placed at the top; an area under the numbers where the digits are punched to indicate the last two digits of the permit holder’s birth year; an area where the year the permit expires is punched; and a foil image that helps to separate a real permit from a fake one. Some states may also have a box that indicates the gender of the permit holder.

Permanent Placards

Permanent disability placards are for those with a permanent disability. They are usually blue and have an identification number at the top. Beneath the identification number there may be a place that indicates the last two digits of the person’s birth year as well as an expiration date for the placard.

Some states may give out permits that do not have an expiration date. They also usually have a symbol or hologram on them to indicate whether they are real or fake. Some states also have a place at the top that can be checked to indicate the gender of the permit holder.

Temporary Parking Placards

In many states, temporary disability permits are issued to those with a temporary physical condition that impairs or limits their ability to walk. These permits are usually good for up to six months.

Temporary parking permits are often red. They have an identification number at the top, the expiration date at the bottom, and an identifying hologram or image that lets you know it’s authentic. The gender of the permit holder may also be marked at the top.

Organization Placards

Organization or institutional placards are issued for representatives of non-profit organizations and institutions that allow them to transport those with disabilities. These placards are normally valid for up to five years and are green in color.

These permits have an identification number on them as well as an expiration date. They also have a hologram or image on them that ensures you know how to determine if a handicap placard is fake.

Can You Look Up A Disabled Parking Permit Number?

The numbers on disabled parking permits are original to each permit. They allow the Department of Motor Vehicles as well as the authorities in each state to trace a particular permit back to its owner. This number cannot be looked up by anyone without access to the system, but it is helpful for police to determine if someone is fraudulently parking in a disabled parking spot.

If you find a lost disabled parking permit, you can turn it in to the police or take it to the local office that gives out permits, usually the DMV.

How To Get A Disabled Parking Permit

If you are interested in obtaining your own disabled parking permit due to a disability or health condition, you can find the forms you need online or in-person at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Simply fill out these forms and have your doctor fill out the applicable sections to certify that you have a health condition or disability that requires the permit.

The common conditions that make a person eligible include:

• Heart disease
• Impaired mobility that requires the use of an assistive device such as a wheelchair or cane
• Loss of one or both hands or one or both legs
• Lung disease
• Vision problems such as partial sightedness or low vision
• Any disease that limits the ability to use or legs or walk certain distances

Other conditions can apply, so it’s important to talk to a health care provider to determine your eligibility. The professionals at Dr. Handicap can help you with your application for a disabled parking permit, too, so get in touch today!

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