It is important that California disabled placard holders understand the rules around handicap parking in their state. Having a permit can make life much easier for people with mobility issues, so it is essential that disabled permits are used correctly, as this allows the handicap parking system to run smoothly and efficiently.
The California disabled parking program has several rules and regulations that it is important to be aware of. New California permit holders need to understand these rules, and even long-term permit holders need to brush up on the do’s and don’ts from time to time.
California handicap placard holders contact us regularly with questions such as: How long can you park in a disabled space in California? How long can a car with a disabled placard be left in a space in California? What are the parking regulations in California? What are the California handicap parking rules? Is my California disabled placard valid in other states?
Let’s answer these important questions now.
How Long Can You Park In A Disabled Space In California?
A California disabled parking permit entitles its holder to park in a designated disabled space in California for an unlimited amount of time. Disabled spaces in California are marked with the International Symbol of Access (wheelchair symbol) and are located in every locality in the state.
How Long Can A Car With A Disabled Placard Be Left In A Space In California?
As well as being able to park in designated disabled parking spaces, California permit holders are also entitled to park:
- Next to a blue curb (which indicate the space is authorized for persons with disabilities)
- Next to a green curb (which indicate limited time parking) for unlimited time
- In an on-street metered parking space at no charge
- In an area that indicates it requires a resident or merchant permit
This means that permit holders do not have to follow the time limits indicated on signage and can park for unlimited periods in any space that is time-restricted for non-permit holders.
What Are The California Handicap Parking Rules?
What are the parking regulations in California for disabled permit holders? Disabled permit holders can park in any of the aforementioned spaces. But permit holders may not park:
- In spaces marked with a crosshatched pattern next to a disabled parking space (these spaces are for wheelchair and wheelchair lift access)
- Next to red curbs (red curbs indicate no stopping, standing, or parking for any reason)
- Next to yellow curbs (yellow curbs indicate that a space is for commercial vehicles only)
- Next to white curbs (white curbs indicate that a space is for loading and unloading passengers or depositing mail)
Is A California Handicap Permit Valid Outside The State?
California disabled permits are valid in all other US states, and also in several foreign countries, including:
- Canada
- Mexico
- UK
- EU
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
What Types Of Disabled Permit Are Available In California?
California has several types of disabled parking permit available. Which one you need will depend on the type of disability you have and how long it is expected to last. The disabled parking permits available in California are:
- Permanent parking placard or license plates – for people with permanent disabilities; valid for two years
- Temporary parking placard – for people with temporary disabilities; valid for up to six months
- Organization license plates – for an organization that uses the vehicle to transport disabled people
- Disabled Veterans license plates
- Travel parking placard – for California permit holders who are traveling out of state
- Travel parking placard – for nonresidents who plan to travel in California
How Do You Qualify For Handicap Parking In California?
The qualifying conditions for a California disabled parking permit are:
- Loss of use of both hands or one or both lower extremities
- A disease that impairs or interferes with mobility
- Inability to walk without the aid of an assistive device
- Visual problems, including lower vision or partial-sightedness
Who Can Verify Handicap Parking Applications In California?
The medical professionals who can verify your disabled parking application in California include:
- Licensed physicians
- Surgeons
- Physician assistants
- Nurse practitioners
- Certified nurse midwives
- Licensed chiropractors
- Licensed optometrists
How Do You Apply For Handicap Parking In California?
The easiest way to apply for a California disabled parking permit is to set up a consultation with a medical professional through an online telemedicine clinic. This way you can submit your application from the comfort of your own home.
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