If you have a permanent or temporary disability that affects your mobility and makes it harder to get to work, school or special occasions, you may be eligible for a handicap permit. A parking permit can come in handy when you need to park near the entrance of a building and get to your classroom or office without having to exert too much energy. If you visit a building that offers handicap parking, you may also be able to take advantage of other amenities, such as accessible restrooms and elevators. These features help you to move efficiently and contribute to your quality of life, so you can continue reaching your goals or running important errands.

The requirements for obtaining a permit vary slightly by state, depending on your condition and the length of time you will be disabled. There are specific details to pay attention to if you’re living in Kentucky and want to get a handicap permit or a disabled plate for your vehicle. If you’re a Kentucky resident, here are some important things to keep in mind when you need a handicap or disabled placard or permit.

Determining Your Eligibility

To receive a handicap permit in Kentucky, you’ll have to meet with a doctor who will verify your disability. The medical professional must provide a statement indicating that you meet the requirements for a permit. While each person’s case is considered on an individual basis, the general guidelines for a disability placard or permit include:

  • You can’t walk more than 200 feet without stopping to rest
  • Your mobility is limited because of lung disease
  • You can’t walk or your walking is labored because of conditions related to arthritis or health issues that are neurological or orthopedic in nature
  • You are legally blind
  • You have lost or are unable to use one or both legs
  • You have lost or are unable to use one or both arms

If you are part of an agency that provides transportation for disabled people or patients can also receive handicap parking rights in the state of Kentucky.

Application Process

You’ll have to fill out an Application for the Disabled Person’s Special Parking Permit, which is classified as Form TC 96-204 in Kentucky. You can obtain a form by visiting your County Clerk’s Office, or you can print the document online.

You’ll fill out the first section of the form, and your doctor will fill out the second half. Your physician must be licensed to practice in the state of Kentucky. Be sure all parts of the application are filled out completely before taking the document to the County Clerk’s Office.

If you’re applying for disability license plates, you’ll have to pay an initial fee of $21. Be sure to return your old license plates to the County Clerk’s Office before you get your disability plates.

How Long Are Handicap Placards and Plates Valid in Kentucky?

The validity of disability plates and placards varies in Kentucky, and is mainly based on whether your disability is temporary or permanent.

Permanent plates and permits are valid for up to two years and temporary permits are valid for up to three months, sometimes less. Kentucky residents have to renew their plates by the July 31st expiration date listed on the placard or plate. The cost for annual renewal is $21.

To receive your permit, you’ll have to fill out the Application for Disabled Person’s Special Parking Permit. You can send the form in by mail or take it to your nearest County Clerk’s Office.

Disabled Veteran Plates For Kentucky Residents

Kentucky residents who have served in the Armed Forces and developed a disability as a result of military service can receive disabled veteran plates. Veterans must have a 50-99% service-related disability, and Veterans Administration must confirm the disability. A surviving spouse of a former disabled veteran can also utilize the license plates if he/she meets the appropriate disability requirements.

It’s best to have a letter form the Department of Veteran Affairs to submit to the Kentucky DMV. The letter will detail your disabilities and determine your eligibility. If you’re not sure if your disability will be counter as service-connected, you can call the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-800-572-6245.

You’ll also have to fill out the Application for Disabled Person’s Special Parking Permit and provide all necessary documentation from the VA or another federal agency. These documents prove your honorable discharge from the military and your service-connected disability.

When you’ve completed the application, turn it in to your local County Clerk’s office, along with an initial fee of $26.

If you want to renew your Kentucky Disabled Veteran Plates, you’ll have to do so by the July 31st expiration date. You’ll also receive the benefits of Social Security after you file your claim.

Reporting Handicap Parking Abuse in Kentucky

Unfortunately, there are times when people who aren’t supposed to use handicap permits utilize them for their own convenience. If you see someone park in a handicap space and notice that the person is able to move freely, it’s likely that the person has parked illegally.

Handicap parking abuse is against the law in Kentucky. People who commit this misdemeanor could pay between $20 and $100 for each offense. It is also illegal for a vehicle to block a handicap space.

You can report disability or handicap parking abuse by contacting the local authorities immediately. You can also report the abuse to the owner of the property. The local authorities in Kentucky can also call in a handicap placard to determine if the permit is active.

Finding Kentucky County Clerk Offices

There are county clerk offices located throughout the state of Kentucky. You’ll receive a variety of services there, including obtaining and renewing your drivers license and getting disabled parking permits. The office will also handle vehicle registration and title transactions for you and renew your license plates.

For additional information on handicap placards and permit eligibility, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website at http://transportation.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx or call (502) 564-4890.