To receive a handicap parking permit, you or your legal guardian must complete an application for Disability Access Parking Privileges. Print the application online or pick one up at your local driver's license office.

Disabled residents can receive either a removable placard or a handicap license plate. Displaying both is not required. The fee for the license plate is $23. There is no charge for the placard, but there is a $1.25 issuance fee for both.

Qualifying Conditions

Your doctor will need to complete part of the certification process. He will need to certify that you meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Cannot walk 200 feet without stopping to rest

• Cannot walk without the use or assistance of a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, or wheelchair

• Are restricted by lung disease to a capacity that disables you (specific guidelines are stated)

• Use portable oxygen

• Have a disabling cardiac condition according to standards set by the American Heart Association

• Severely limited in walking ability due to arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition

Motorcycles

If you are disabled and you ride a motorcycle, you may choose to purchase a special handicap motorcycle license plate for your bike. Standard registration fees apply.

Information for Travelers

Local law enforcement agencies regulate parking spaces, so you'll need to check with them to determine whether your Alabama parking placard is valid when traveling in another state. The Americans with Disabilities Act does not regulate parking permits, because they are issued by local governments. Some states might offer "visitor placards" for travelers; check with the DMV at your destination to determine local requirements.

Alabama does recognize current, valid placards from other states, according to state law, so disabled visitors are welcome to use their placard anywhere in the state.

Renewals

The removable windshield placards and handicap license plates are subject to periodic renewal every five years during your designated renewal month.

The state issues licenses based on the first letter of your last name. For example, if your last name begins with an "F" or an "N," you would need to renew during the month of April.

When your privileges expire, you will need to reapply by completing a Recertification for Handicapped Parking Privileges. If you qualify for a long-term disability after your first application, you may re-certify yourself by signing the certification at the bottom of this form.

Misuse

Anyone using a handicapped parking space with expired handicap license plates or placards is guilty of a Class B misdemeanor under Alabama law.

A handicap parking space may be used only when the vehicle is transporting the handicapped individual.

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