When you have a disability, finding ways to make your daily life a little easier can make a big difference. When you visit a new place in your town, knowing you have access to handicap parking can make the experience more enjoyable. You won’t have to travel as far to get to the front door. You’ll also have space to get in and out of the car safely. The places you visit may also provide additional amenities like accessible restrooms and walkways to make your stay more enjoyable.
If you’re a Maine resident and need a handicap permit, here are some things you need to know to complete the application process.
Permanent and Temporary Disabilities
In Maine, you can receive either a temporary or permanent disability permit. Your doctor or medical professional must provide written proof that you have limited mobility. In order to receive disabled parking benefits in Maine, your doctor or medical professional must be licensed to practice medicine in the state.
If you have to stop and rest after walking 200 feet or more, this will qualify you for a handicap parking permit. You also qualify if you are legally blind and/or you need the assistance of someone else to walk. If you have arthritis or you suffer from an orthopedic or neurological condition, the state will likely issue a disabled parking permit to you. If you suffer from severe lung disease or carry a portable oxygen tank, you’ll qualify for a permit.
Women who have recently given birth in the state of Maine can receive temporary disability parking permits as well. Disability permits are valid for up to six months for the birth of a premature baby. Women who have had C-sections can also receive a temporary disability permit that is valid for up to a week after the receipt of an application.
Organizations and businesses in Maine that transport disabled or handicapped individuals can also apply to receive permits. The permits are valid for each vehicle that the organization owns and the owner of the agency must submit the request for permits.
The Application Process
In Maine, you’ll need to fill out the Application for Disability Plates/Placards, which is Form PS-18. You can get the application from to the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles Office nearest you or print the document online.
You must fill out the form, along with your doctor, nurse practitioner, chiropractor or physician’s assistant. Be sure the form is complete and signed by both you and your medical professional. Keep in mind that any doctor who signs the form must be licensed to practice medicine in Maine. You can turn in the completed form in person, fax it or mail it to:
Fax:
207-624-9204
Mail:
Disability Clerk
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0029
If you’d also like to apply for disability license plates, send a copy of your current vehicle registration with your application. You won’t have to pay a fee.
How Long Can You Use Parking Permits?
If you have a permanent disability, your parking permit will be valid for up to four years. If your disability is temporary, you’ll receive a permit that you can use for up to six months. In some instances, your doctor may indicate that you don’t need a permit for six months. For example, if you’re recovering from a minor surgery or have broken or sprained an arm or leg but expect to be back to normal within 2-3 months, your doctor may indicate this on your permit application.
Maine Disabled Veterans Plates
If you are a disabled veteran and a Maine resident, you may be able to receive specialized license plates. Your disability must be 100% related to your military service. The Veterans Administration can verify your disability.
To apply for the plates, you’ll have to visit the Main Office for the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles or send a request by mail. Be sure to present a copy of your current vehicle registration and your letter from the Veterans Administration. You can turn your application in at the following addresses:
Main Office
101 Hospital Street
Augusta, ME 04333-0029
Mailing Address
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Registration Unit
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Once your application is complete, you won’t have to pay registration fees, and you’ll be exempt from title fees, sales tax and excise tax. You can also experience the benefits of Social Security benefits after filing a claim.
Evaluating Your Disability Benefits
If you’re not sure if you qualify for a handicap placard in Maine, it may be helpful to work with an attorney who can help you determine eligibility. The lawyer will determine whether you’ve applied for or are receiving Social Security benefits and whether your disability affects your ability to work. If you’ve been injured severely or have a mobility issue that will cause you to be out of work for twelve months or more, you’re likely eligible for a handicap parking permit. The BMV will also check to see whether you are receiving medical treatment for your disability.
Handicap Parking Abuse In Maine
People who commit handicap parking abuse in the state of Maine can receive a fine of at least $200. The fine can increase for people who parking illegally in a handicap space more than once.
Parking abuse is classified as utilizing a handicap parking space without having a handicap or disability. Keep in mind that you are not allowed to let your relatives or friends use your handicap plates or placards for parking purposes if you are not in the vehicle.
If you see parking abuse, be sure to tell the property owners, security or local law enforcement. Providing the authorities with as much information about the car that is illegally parked will assist police in resolving the matter.
For additional information on handicap plates and placards, as well as details about renewals and qualifications, contact the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles at 207-624-9000.