When you are in the process of applying for a disabled parking permit in the United States, it can be difficult to find out where to start the process, how to continue correctly for the state you live in, and how to end it and receive your permit. If you are planning on getting a disabled parking permit in Maryland, following with this guide along the way will prove to be very beneficial.

Do You Qualify?

Before you can even start taking steps toward obtaining a permit, you have to confirm that you have one or more of the following conditions specific to Maryland:

  • Lung disease that results in forced respiratory expiratory volume for one second to be less than one liter when it is measured by spirometry.
  • Cardiovascular disease limitations that can be classified as Class III or Class IV in severity by the standards of the American Heart Association.
  • Unable to walk for more than 200 feet without having to stop and rest.
  • Unable to walk without using a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, help from another person, or any other assistance device.
  • Require a wheelchair for mobility.
  • Has lost an arm, hand, foot, or leg or the use of one.
  • Has a permanent impairment in both eyes

Obtaining a Physician’s Certification

In the state of Maryland, your doctor is required to fill in the Disability Certification Information section of your application unless you are self-certifying. Once completed, the physician can fax the form directly to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration in order for a disability placard to be mailed or handed to you.

Maryland Law specifies that only licensed physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, chiropractors, optometrists, podiatrist or physical therapists can certify that you are disabled. You, your dependent, or anyone who depends on you for transportation can be certified as having a disability under these conditions:

  • A licensed physician, licensed physician assistant, or licensed nurse practitioner may certify all qualifying conditions listed.
  • A licensed chiropractor, licensed podiatrist or licensed physical therapist may certify disability codes (3 through 8 and 10).
  • A licensed optometrist may certify qualifying conditions regarding vision.
  • The person with the disability may self-certify the conditions listed under disability code 6, by appearing in person with proper identification. If a doctor certified the loss of a limb, the doctor must complete all of Section C.

Where to Turn in Your Application

To receive an application, you have to request a new application by visiting your local MVA office, downloading it from the website, or calling one of the numbers below:

  • Fax on Demand System at 410-424-3050 and request Catalogue number 15.
  • Customer Service Center at 410-768-7000 (Only if you are in-state).

Keep in mind that you can visit any branch except Oakland for the document.

After you have completed filling in your application and your doctor has filled out the required section if they need to, you can mail it to MVA Disability Unit or turn it in at your local MVA office to receive the placard in person

If you choose to mail your form, send it with the appropriate fees to:

The MVA

Disability Unit, Room 202
6601 Ritchie Highway
Glen Burnie, Maryland, 21062

How to Use Your Permit

The first thing you should do when your receive your placard is confirm whether it is temporary or permanent. If it is temporary, you will be able to use it for anywhere from three weeks to six months, and if it is permanent, it has no expiration date. Registration stickers also have to be applied to plates every two years.

In Maryland, you must always carry a copy of the medical certification you received from your doctor whenever you use the placard or plates; and it must be shown to law enforcement upon request. Placards must be hung on the inside rearview mirror and if the vehicle does not have one, or it is not visible, you may put it on top of the dashboard on the driver’s side. Also make sure that the side that is visible shows the expiration date of the placard. You are required to remove hanging placards from the mirror while you are driving.

Renew Your Plate

When it is time to renew your plate, you will have to complete another application and submit it with a $20 fee and you also have to pay a separate registration renewal fee.

Replacing a Lost Permit

When you realize that your permit has been stolen or is lost, you are required to immediately report it to the local law enforcement agency. After you report it, obtain the police report number and fill in an application for Maryland Parking Placards/License Plates for Individuals with a Disability (Form number VR-219). Then visit your local full-service MVA or any expressive office, other than Oakland, to receive your substitute placard or plate in person. You can also mail the completed form with the appropriate fees (No cash) to the address of the Disability Unit listed above.

Where Can I Find a Maryland DMV?

If you are looking for a local MVA office in Maryland, there are multiple locations all over the state. There are multiple offices located in every county, such as Baltimore, Cecil, Frederick, Howard, Talbot, etc.

How to Report Handicapped Parking Space Abuse

If you see a car that does not have a handicap placard in a designated handicap spot, they could be parking illegally and you can report them. You can report them by calling local law enforcement or the MVA office. You should also make sure to write down the vehicle’s license plate information before you report the situation.

Conclusion

If you live in Maryland and need a disabled parking permit, following the steps in this guide will help you obtain one. One of the most important things to remember is to always hang up your placard or have it visible in the vehicle so you do not get fined.