Across America there are millions of people who face the challenges of dealing with a disability that impairs their mobility. This makes living an independent hard for some, and having any kind of assistance can be crucial to maintaining a functional life. In the state of Kentucky this is no different. There are many individuals who need the help of government agencies to ensure that they are able to live a full life. One such benefit that an individual can gain access to through the power of the state of Kentucky is a disability parking permit that allows individuals to park closer to government, commercial, residential and medical buildings, allowing them the ability to make transportation easier. If you are one of the many individuals interested in acquiring this permit, take a look at this guide to help you navigate how to get one and where you can apply.
Who Qualifies for a Disability Parking Permit in Kentucky
The first thing to look into if you’re interested in obtaining a disability parking permit in the state of Kentucky is to check if you qualify. The requirements for an individual to be eligible are fairly straightforward, and if you do qualify under this criteria, then it is a good idea to take the next steps to obtain this permit as it will be very useful. These are the conditions eligible for this permit in Kentucky:
- You are unable to walk at least 200 feet without stopping to rest
- You have a lung disease that restricts your ability to move at a steady, normal pace
- You are ability to walk is severely restricted due to an arthritic, neurological or orthopedic condition
- You have lost the use of one or both legs or both arms either through paralysis or amputation
- You’re legally blind
- You have a severe visual, audio, or physical impairment,
- You have a chronic heart condition, emphysema, rheumatism, or other debilitating condition that limits or impairs your personal mobility or ability to walk.
If you fall under any of these conditions, then you are eligible for a disability parking permit in Kentucky. If you are unsure whether your condition qualifies or not, then you should contact the Kentucky County Clerk’s Office to attend to your inquiries. If you find that you qualify for the Kentucky disability parking permit, then it is time to move on to the next step!
Speak with Your Doctor: Important Steps to Apply for a Disability Parking Permit
Individuals who find that they have met the requirements to qualify for a disability parking permit must then meet with a licensed physician to have them certify your condition and issue a certificate that you will use in your application. The only person who can prescribe a disability parking permit is a licensed physician in the state of Kentucky, so making an appointment as soon as you can will be critical in applying as soon as possible. You will need to bring the proper application with you when you visit your doctor. You can get the Application for Disabled Person’s Special Parking Permit (Form TC 96-204) by going to your County Clerk’s Office or printing the document that is available online. You must have the document notarized before submitting it. Once you’ve completed the application then it will be time to apply for your permit.
How to File Your Application for a Disability Parking Permit in Kentucky
The next and last step that you must take to obtain a disability parking permit in Kentucky is to submit your application to the Kentucky County Clerk’s Office. In the state of Kentucky, there is no fee for a temporary or permanent disability parking permit. This allows any individual in need to submit the application with no concerns over financial aspects of their submission. You can submit your application in person at the County Clerk’s Office or via postal mail.
Length of Validity for a Disability Parking Permit in Kentucky
In the state of Kentucky, disability parking permits have two different lengths of validity depending on which kind of permit you have been issued. A temporary parking permit is valid for a period of 3 months. A permanent parking permit is valid for a period of 2 years. All disability parking permits expire on the 31st of July.
How to Renew Your Disability Parking Permit in Kentucky
Both kinds of permits can be renewed if necessary. Disability parking permits can be renewed twice for a period of up to 2 years. Renewals procedures for disability parking permits vary from county to county, so it is important to contact your local County Clerk’s Office to determine what you must do to start the renewal process.
What to Do With Your Disability Parking Permit
Once you have obtained your disability parking permit, you must take the necessary steps to use it properly. Failure to properly showcase your disability parking permit can result in your receiving a ticket for illegal parking with a fine ranging from $20 to $100 dollars. To avoid this, make sure to place your disability parking placard on your rearview mirror while you are parked in a handicap space. If you cannot place it on your rearview mirror, place the placard on your dashboard so that it may be visible from your windshield. While you are driving, remove the placard from your rearview mirror to avoid a fine for driving with an obstructed view.
What to Do if You Have Lost Your Placard
Unfortunately, losing your placard or someone taking it without your knowledge can result in your having to replace it. If you need to replace your disability parking placard, then you will have to sign and submit an affidavit to the County Clerk’s Office stating that your placard has been lost, stolen or damaged.
Conclusion
If you are interested in acquiring a disability parking permit in Kentucky, the steps are very straightforward. Once you’ve determined that you qualify for the permit, you must go to your doctor, have your application notarized, and then you can submit it! It’s a quick and painless process for those who need it. If you are ready to take the leap, head over to your doctors office and you’ll have your disability parking permit in no time.