How to Apply for Pennsylvania Driver's License If Physically Challenged

Many people with physical disabilities can still obtain a license.

Being physically challenged or disabled does not necessarily mean you can't get a driver's license. Depending on your disability, you can still apply for a license, as well as a handicapped plate or placard, as long as your disability does not alter your ability to drive safely.

Instructions

1. Determine if you fall under a disabled driver status. Specific requirements are listed on the Pennsylvania DOT website (see References), but standards include not being able to walk a certain distance without the aid of a certain device, not having complete use of an arm or both arms and having vision problems. Depending on your disability, you may simply have a restriction added to your license. For example, if you can't see well your license may state that you must wear contacts or glasses while driving. Additionally, you will be considered a classified driver if you have a physical impairment that will not affect your driving ability, such as missing fingers. The restriction will be based on your physical challenge.

2. Apply for a license in the same manner as if you were able-bodied. If you are 18 years of age, this includes scheduling a test, bringing your learner's permit with you, taking a written test and a vision test and paying a fee. If you have difficulties writing, you can request an oral test. Bring a valid car to the driving test, one that has a state inspection sticker, an emissions sticker and is registered and insured.

3. Apply for a disability placard or plate so you can park in handicapped spaces. You can use a placard in other vehicles, but the plate is only attributed to one car and is not removable. To apply, fill out an MV-145A form for a placard and a MV-145 form for a plate. Both are available at the DMV (see References). You may also need a notarized signature from a physician, depending on your disability. Details regarding this status are on the form.

Tips & Warnings

• Physicians aware of a disability that could impair safe driving are legally mandated to report this information to the Department of Transportation. If one of your health care providers has submitted such a statement, the DOT, after reviewing submitted materials meticulously, may recall your license or ask you to take another driver's test.

References

• The Unofficial DMV Guide: Information for Pennsylvania Drivers with Disabilities
• DMV: Information for Disabled Drivers in Pennsylvania
• DMV Answers: Does a handicap or disabled driver require a special drivers license?
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: Medical Professionals (Medical Reporting)
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: License Restrictions