A disabled parking placard is an extremely valuable legal document that entitles its holder to use disabled parking spaces. The convenience of disabled parking allows a person to enjoy a much improved level of freedom and independence, and a generally increased quality of life.

Millions of Americans live with a disability that can make getting from A to B more challenging. These people are entitled to use a disabled parking permit.

Handicap Parking Placard Benefits

A disabled parking permit entitles its holder to park in any disabled parking space, as well as in some on-street metered spaces free of charge. Disabled parking spaces are regulated by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and exist in every jurisdiction in the country. Disabled parking spaces are located as near as possible to the most accessible entrances to buildings and amenities, so being able to use these spaces is very convenient.

Disabled parking permit holders from one state are also entitled to use the disabled parking infrastructure in all other US states. An American disabled parking permit also entitles its holder to avail of disabled parking facilities in several foreign countries, including Canada, Mexico, Australia, Japan, the UK, and the EU.

Disabled Parking - disabled parkig signage
Image by MabelAmber on Pixabay: Applying for a handicap placard in 2021 is a straightforward process.

How To Get A Handicap Placard

Every year hundreds of thousands of people apply for a new disabled parking permit – but not just anyone can apply. There is a list of disabled parking qualifying conditions, and new applicants must have one or more of these conditions in order to qualify.

So what are the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in 2021? And have any of the rules changed in 2021? Today we will discuss everything you need to know about qualifying for a disabled parking placard in 2021.

What Qualifies You For A Handicap Placard?

You will qualify for a handicap parking permit if you have a disability that curtails mobility, makes getting around difficult, and imposes unusual hardship in the use of public transportation.

Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard The Same In Every State?

The main list of qualifying conditions for a handicap parking permit is very similar in every state. However, states do differ in the exact wording and details of their qualifying conditions in some cases.

What Types Of Disabled Parking Permit Are Available In 2021?

The most common types of handicap parking permit available in 2021 are:

  • A temporary handicap parking placard (usually valid for six months)
  • A permanent handicap parking placard or license plate (usually valid for between one and five years)
  • A Disabled Veterans license plate
  • An organization handicap parking placard or license plate

What Medical Conditions Qualify For Handicap Parking In 2021?

The main list of qualifying conditions for a handicap parking placard in 2021 are:

  • An inability to walk 200 ft without needing to stop to rest
  • Any condition that necessitates the use of a walking aid such as a Zimmer frame, wheelchair, crutch, cane, prosthetic device, or another person.
  • A heart condition (classified as Class III or IV by the American Heart Association)
  • Lung disease
  • A condition that necessitates the use of a portable oxygen tank
  • Arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition that inhibits mobility
  • Legal blindness

A few states also count the following as qualifying conditions:

  • Sensitivity to sunlight
  • Deafness
  • Any other physical or mental impairment not previously listed which constitutes an equal degree of disability, and imposes unusual hardship in the use of public transportation
Disabled parking - wheelchair
Image by stevepb on Pixabay: If you need to use a wheelchair, you will qualify for a disabled parking placard in 2021.

How To Apply For A Handicap Placard

Applying for a handicap parking permit is a simple and easy process. First, you need to determine whether you have a condition that will qualify you to use disabled parking. The next step is to have a consultation with a licensed medical professional in your state.

The best way to do this is to use an online telemedicine platform such as Dr. Handicap. Through an online clinic, a consultation will be set up between you and a medical professional who will examine you and verify your eligibility for a handicap parking placard.

Once the medical professional has verified your condition, they will fill in the relevant sections of a disabled parking permit application form. You can then complete the rest of the form and submit it to your local Department of Motor Vehicles.

Once your application has been submitted, it will be processed, and you should receive your handicap parking permit within 14 working days.

Featured image by Vivina on pxhere