Handicapped parking is an essential element of life for individuals with disabilities. It can make it easier to complete necessary tasks like going to the grocery store or post office, but also makes it simple to go out and enjoy activities like dining at restaurants or visiting parks.

Unfortunately, actually getting the parking permit can be difficult. Because the United States is composed of 50 separate states, each one has the power to make its own laws about who qualifies for a permit and how people can apply for it. If you are struggling to receive a handicapped parking permit in South Carolina, or are just unfamiliar with the process, follow the steps in this simple guide. It will explain everything you need to know to get qualified.

Are You Eligible?

The first step to receiving a permit is to figure out whether or not you qualify for one. In general, the rules across the states are standardized because of federal laws passed to protect the rights of disabled and handicapped individuals. You should be able to get a pass for South Carolina if you meet one of the following requirements or have one of the listed conditions:

  • You cannot walk 100 ft. nonstop without aggravating a preexisting medical condition that causes pain or discomfort
  • You have a substantial limitation in your walking abilities because of orthopedic, arthritic, or neurological condition. This requirement includes individuals who have conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, blindness, or cerebral palsy
  • You require portable oxygen
  • You are unable to walk without assistance like a cane, wheelchair, prosthetic device, or another person
  • You have a cardiac condition that creates functional limitations; this condition needs to be classified as Class III or IV as established by the American Heart Association
  • A person has restrictions because of a lung disease

Like numerous other states, South Carolina requires individuals to have a doctor’s note that describes their disability and certifies them as handicapped. A person who is responsible for transporting a handicapped individual can also request a permit for the vehicle they regularly use to help the handicapped person around.

How to Receive a Doctor’s Diagnosis

Before you start filling out forms, you need to receive a diagnosis from a trusted doctor. If you have lived in South Carolina your entire life, then you can visit your regular doctor and ask them to give you an official diagnosis and sign a prescription order. The order will be attached to your paperwork and submitted with the rest.

If you are new to South Carolina, you will need to do some research. Not all doctors are willing to give a handicap diagnosis, so you might need to search your region. However, the majority of doctors are glad to help.

If you struggle with mobility issues – after all, you need the permit – then there are services that will let you speak to a doctor online to get the diagnosis you need. A website like drhandicap.com will match you with a doctor in your state who is certified by the medical board. You can speak in person with a professional, send them scans of your paperwork, and receive an emailed or printed out version of the paperwork you want.

The Paperwork

One of the most common reasons people are denied a placard is because they did not fill out the paperwork correctly. For South Carolina, you need Form RG-007A if you are an individual and Form RG-007B if you are a business. The papers need to be filled to completion, and you will have to include your prescription from a doctor.

Forms can be submitted in person or mailed to the DMV. You will need to include a check or money order for $1 to have proof of the transaction. No office can accept cash. Make checks payable to the SC Department of Motor Vehicles.

In addition to having the right paperwork, all applicants require a current driver’s license, beginner permit, or an identification card with a recent photo. No placards will be given out without a photo ID.

Once you have submitted all of the paperwork and been approved, a registration certificate will be issued. This certificate needs to be kept with the individual who receives the placard. It is best to keep it in the vehicle where the placard will be used.

If you choose to submit everything by mail, have the documents addressed to:

SC Department of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 1498
Blythewood, SC 29016-0019

Other Information

It is actually quite easy to get a handicapped parking permit in South Carolina, especially compared to other states. Once you have the permit in hand, you need to be sure you follow all of the rules so you don’t incur fines or get in legal trouble. Remember that each parking permit is valid for 4 years. A temporary placard will only work for a single year.

Once the placard expires, you will need to undergo the reapplication process. To become recertified, you need to undergo the exact same process, which means filling out the forms once more and getting recertified by a physician. It is a good idea to speak to a doctor online once more if you have trouble getting a diagnosis by visiting the office in person.

If the placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, you unfortunately have little recourse. You will need to go through the process of getting diagnosed again, and will need to fill out the paperwork.

Finally, place the permit in the right location. It needs to be hung on your rearview mirror and should be visible when parked and driving. It should be visible from the front and rear windshields as well. Family members and friends are NOT allowed to utilize your parking pass, and they will be fined or arrested for misusing it.

Conclusion

Now you know everything you need to get a handicapped parking permit in South Carolina. Get your diagnosis, fill out the paperwork, and bring a check for $1. Your placard will then be issued.