With a trip to the store or a drive to the mall for someone without a disability may be an everyday experience, for someone who suffers from a disability it can be a stressful and inconvenient time that is uncomfortable and can make justifying going out very difficult. If you or someone you know faces a disability that makes it difficult to move or go long distances, then having the ability to access handicapped parking can save lots of energy and trouble to those with disabilities. This article will discuss who is eligible for these services, how to obtain them, and how to renew them to ensure that you are able to get the most out of life and make sure your disabilities don’t limit you by applying for a parking permit in Hawaii.
Who can apply?
When you are considering applying for a parking permit, the first thing you must consider is if your disability is one that allows for you to register for a handicapped permit. Whether you are looking for a temporary or a permanent pass, you must look at the states’ requirements for what conditions must be present for the candidate and how long they expect to be living with the conditions. For example, if you now require a wheelchair or walking aid to help you move around, you can apply for a temporary pass that will allow you temporary access to handicapped spaces if the condition persist. If you suffer from chronic diseases or sensory issues, you may qualify for permanent parking privileges as you will be living with these conditions indefinitely and require the assistance of better parking. Understanding which category you fit into in the eyes of the Hawaiian jurisdiction will better allow you to understand what the application wants you to disclose about your status.
What information do I need?
As is the case with most government sanctioned registrations, getting registered for a disability parking permit requires some information before moving on to other steps. You first must file a PA-2 form. This form is a way for the registry to understand the applicant, their license status, desired duration of permit, and some information at the eligibility. Most of the information is fairly basic and can be filled out with ease, but there is a certain amount of information that needs to be verified by a letter of approval by a medical professional that ensures you have the disability that you are filing for. Thankfully due to modern innovations and technology you can consult with a doctor online if your disability prevents you from travelling to go see your doctor or if is simply an inconvenience. Once the paperwork is in order you may also have to pay a small fee depending on how you wish to display your status.
Where am I registered?
After you have either gone and visited a doctor or quickly consulted via the internet, you are now able to go to an official Hawaiian DMV to register and set up your tag information. One downside to going to the registry is that it may be inconvenient with your current condition or it may not be a good time to go on a long drive just to have to wait at a registry for a long time to file simple paperwork. Once again, thanks to the convenience of modern technology you can skip the drive and the lines by having all your information sent to the registry via the internet. Once your online doctor or consultant has deemed your application valid, they can send it to the registry for you and have them take care of your data for you so you don’t have to spend energy and time going out to the office just to hand in some paperwork. If you would rather drive to a DMV office, each city typically has one and if you call ahead to confirm your order, they will generally be easy to work with if you plan.
What if my condition worsens?
If you have been living with a condition that has either gotten worse or gone away, there are certain measures you must take to ensure the legality and convenience your vehicle is entitled to. If you have been to a doctor and they feel as if you have a condition that has worsened then you may be entitled to a permanent plate or placard that will allow you to park in handicapped spots all over the country that you will be allowed to utilize indefinitely.
What do I pick up?
When you are at the tag office, they will give you various options on how you want to display your status based on your completed documentation. Your choice will primarily be based on the extent of your permit and condition or the method that you want to display your permit. There are four different methods to choose from all with various traits to give insight to the condition of the owner that are as follows:
- Permanent Disability Placard: Permanent disability placards issued in Georgia are given to those who have been diagnosed with a medical disability that allows them to park in handicapped spaces for as long as they continue to renew their placard for.
- Temporary Disability Placard: Like the permanent disability placard in its basic use and function, the temporary disability placard is issued to users who may have a disability that is only temporary or are suffering complications from an outside factor
- Disability License Plate: Instead of having to put up the disability placard anytime you want to park in a designated handicap space, the users’ license plate would indicate the handicapped status.
Conclusion
With so much information to think of and process it may seem overwhelming to register for a disability license, if you use the resources online and at the registry, you will soon be able to save time and energy with a new parking permit.