At Disabled Parking, we understand that it can be difficult to decipher the wealth of online information when it comes to applying for a disabled parking permit in Alabama. But don’t worry – we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process. From qualifying medical conditions to the AL disabled parking permit application itself, we have you covered! Read on for the answers to all of your burning questions.
How do I get a handicap parking permit in Alabama?
Only those who are disabled can apply for a disabled parking permit. However, did you know that there are numerous types of disabilities that qualify for a disabled parking permit in Alabama? Some of these conditions are what’s called “invisible disabilities”, so it’s worth chatting to your physician if you’re unsure as to whether you qualify or not.
Step 1: Speak to your physician to see if you qualify
If you have one of the disabilities listed below, you are eligible for a disabled parking permit in Alabama:
- Requiring portable oxygen
- Immobility or loss of limb
- You cannot walk without an assisting device (a crutch, brace, wheelchair etc.)
- Having a Class III or IV cardiac condition
- You have a severe arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition
- You are unable to walk 200 ft. without stopping for a break or a rest
However, as mentioned above, other conditions may qualify too – so if you have a condition that severely impacts your ability to function on a daily basis, and if you think a permit would be of benefit, you should also speak to a doctor to see if a permit is an option for you.
This can be organized virtually with the help of Disabled Parking. Telemedicine is a great option for those with reduced mobility especially, as you can complete the appointment from the comfort of your own home.
Step 2: Complete the Application for Disability Access Parking Privileges (Form MVR 32-6-230)
This form can be found online, or you can collect one in person from your local DMV office in Alabama. This is when the licensed physician you’ve spoken to needs to certify that you have a qualifying condition, so ensure that they add this information to the form after your appointment.
You will see on this form that there are three different types of permit you can apply for:
- Disability Access License Plate(s) (to include disability access military and motorcycle plates) – issued only for vehicles owned by (a) persons with a disability; and (b) organizations that transport persons with a disability
- Disability Access Placard(s) – issued only to persons with a disability who have a LONG-TERM limitation or impairment in their ability to walk
- Temporary Disability Access Placard(s) – issued only to persons with a disability who have a TEMPORARY limitation or impairment in their ability to walk (not to exceed six months)
It’s important to apply for the permit most relevant to your medical condition.
Step 3: Alabama handicap tag application
Once you complete the form with all the relevant information and your physician’s confirmation, you are ready to submit your application. To do so, you must go to your local DMV office with the completed form and the relevant fee (there is no charge for placards, but you will have to pay up to $23 for disabled parking plates).
You will receive your disabled parking placard in due course after submission, provided that there are no issues.
Step 4: Using your Alabama disabled parking permit
This is arguably the most important step of all! You can only begin to park in disabled parking spaces once you have received your permit. Failure to comply with this rule (even if you have an application that’s being processed) can cause legal issues, so please remember to wait until you have your permit in hand.
In order to stay within the law, you’ll need to always clearly display your permit. Either hang it on your rearview mirror or lay it on the dashboard – it must be visible from the front and the back when your vehicle is stationary and removed when you are in motion.
We hope that these steps have simplified the application process for you. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for more info.
Featured image by Zach Farmer on Unsplash