Living with cerebral palsy has plenty of its own challenges, but getting around shouldn’t be one of them. For people with mild cerebral palsy, transportation isn’t typically much of a problem. For some individuals, vehicle modifications can make it possible to apply for a driver’s license with cerebral palsy and get around easily by car.
Many folks with the condition might wonder, “Is cerebral palsy a qualifying condition for a handicap placard?” And the answer is yes! Keep reading for more information on driving and parking with cerebral palsy.
What is cerebral palsy?
Chances are you already know all about this condition if you’re living with it, but here’s a quick overview of the basics. Cerebral palsy is a congenital disorder that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. It’s caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that ends up affecting a person’s ability to control their muscles.
The symptoms and their severity can vary greatly from person to person (anywhere from walking a little awkwardly to not being able to walk or move at all). Although symptoms may change with time, cerebral palsy does not get worse over the years.
Are you allowed to drive with cerebral palsy?
Because cerebral palsy can manifest differently with each individual, it depends on what your specific symptoms look like as to whether you can drive or not. If you have a mild version of the condition, you might not have any difficulties completing everyday tasks (including driving a car).
Some people are also able to drive with cerebral palsy because they’ve gotten their vehicle modified. These customizations can be made specifically to fit your needs – so they can range from things like hand controls to wheelchair lifts, depending on what you need to operate the vehicle safely.
If you’re not sure what you would need in your vehicle, it can be a great idea to check out sites like CerebralPalsy.org. Here you’ll be directed to resources that can point you in the right direction in order to make the road to driving a little easier for you.
How can you apply for a driver’s license?
Head to your state’s individual Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for directions on how to apply for a driver’s license. Most states require a specific amount of practice behind the wheel (typically with your learner’s permit), as well as a written test and driving test with a DMV worker for the actual license.
You can get all the info you need about how to prepare for these tests by heading to your local DMV office or visiting your state’s DMV website.
Is cerebral palsy a qualifying condition for a disabled parking permit?
Even if your cerebral palsy means you’re unable to operate a car, that doesn’t mean you won’t still be riding in cars to get where you need to go – so it can be really helpful to apply for a disabled parking permit.
Most states’ Departments of Motor Vehicles recognize any medical condition that limits your mobility as one that qualifies for a handicap placard. Bottom line: you can benefit from a disabled parking permit whether you’re the driver or the passenger!
How can you apply for a disabled parking permit?
Getting a handicap placard is a fairly straightforward process. You’ll need to complete an application (which can be picked up in person at your local DMV or found on the DMV website), as well as a medical certification. You can do this in person or online via Disabled Parking. This entails you to see a physician who can verify that your condition does in fact limit your mobility in some way.
The physician will need to fill out some information on your application and sign it. After submitting your application in person, online, or through the mail, you’ll receive your handicap placard in the mail. You’re then able to park in any designated wheelchair accessible parking space (marked with a posted sign or a blue curb) and have access to more convenient parking wherever you travel. Some states even offer additional benefits, like free parking at metered parking places.
Your main responsibility is to make sure your permit is always up to date, so check when your permit expires and renew whenever your state mandates it. This depends on your state’s regulations, but is typically about every few years. You’ll also need to get a replacement placard if your permit is ever lost or stolen. It’s also important to remember that you’re never allowed to lend your placard out to friends or family – you must be in the vehicle in order to use the permit.
Even if you’re unable to drive or even walk on your own, your caregivers can also benefit by applying for a handicap permit on your behalf. If you have a valid disabled parking permit, as long as you’re in the car, you’ll have access to spots that are specifically designed for drivers or passengers who need close parking places, or extra space when entering or exiting their vehicles. This can be essential for those with cerebral palsy who rely on wheelchairs to get around.
Don’t let cerebral palsy limit your ability to get out in the world. Apply for a driver’s license if you’re able to drive, or get an application for a disabled parking permit to access more convenient parking places wherever you go.
Featured image by Magdalena Smolnicka on Unsplash