How to Obtain a Disabled Parking Permit in Florida

There are several ways to qualify for a disabled parking permit in Florida. You need a valid medical certification of legal blindness or limited mobility. Limited mobility must require portable oxygen or an assistive device such as a wheelchair, cane or brace. Limitations due to arthritic, neurological or orthopedic conditions qualify, as do lung disease and cardiac conditions meeting certain specifications. Getting the disabled parking permit is a relatively simple process--follow these steps to learn how.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Applicable fees
• Computer with Internet access
• Medical provider

1. Meet one of the Florida qualifications for impaired vision, mobility or other disease or condition. The disabled person must also have either a current Florida driver's license or a Florida identification card issued by the Florida Division of Drivers' Licenses.

2. Go to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (HSMV) Web site, print the disabled parking permit application, complete the upper portion and sign it.

3. Take the form to a licensed physician or other valid medical provider who can certify your condition and sign the physician's Statement of Certification section.

4. Submit the completed application and payment for the permanent or temporary placard fee to your county tax collector's office.

5. Hang the placard from the rearview mirror when parking in a parking space reserved for the disabled.

Tips & Warnings

• Permanent permits are valid for 4 years and expire on the owner's birthday. Temporary permits are issued for up to 6 months. You will automatically receive a permanent permit renewal form by mail before the expiration date.

• Mark "I am a frequent traveler" on the application to get a duplicate placard so you can use disabled parking at your departure location and use the placard at your destination.

• Anyone with a disabled parking permit may park on the street at a meter without paying for up to 4 hours. Municipalities may remove free parking in some places like airports, sports stadiums and convention centers.

• You may use your placard without owning or driving the vehicle you are in.

• Do not lend the parking permit to anyone. Misuse of a parking permit is subject to a fine and may result in the placard being confiscated.

• Do not leave the placard hanging on your rearview mirror while driving.