Alabama residents with qualifying disabilities can apply for a handicap parking permit, officially known as a disabled person parking placard. This permit allows individuals to park in designated handicapped parking spaces, offering easier access to buildings and facilities. This guide will walk you through the application process, eligibility requirements, and important considerations.
Who Qualifies for an Alabama Handicap Parking Permit?
To be eligible for an Alabama disabled person parking placard, you must meet specific criteria demonstrating a significant disability that limits your ability to walk. This limitation must be permanent or expected to last at least 12 months. The determining factor is your functional limitation, not the specific diagnosis. Examples of qualifying conditions include:
- Mobility impairments: Conditions affecting your ability to walk, such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or amputation.
- Respiratory conditions: Severe lung disease that significantly impacts your ability to walk.
- Heart conditions: Conditions requiring frequent rest due to exertion while walking.
- Other conditions: Other disabilities that significantly impair your ability to walk, as determined by a licensed physician.
How to Apply for an Alabama Handicap Parking Permit
The application process involves several steps:
1. Physician's Certification: You will need a completed and signed certification form from a licensed physician, physician's assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has examined you and can attest to your qualifying disability. This form is available through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website and specifies the required information about your condition and its impact on your mobility.
2. Application Form Completion: You'll need to complete the official application form, providing accurate personal information such as your name, address, driver's license number (if applicable), and other relevant details.
3. Submitting Your Application: The completed application form and physician's certification should be submitted to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) either by mail or in person. ALEA provides detailed instructions on their website regarding the preferred method of submission and the required address.
4. Permit Issuance: Once ALEA reviews and approves your application, they will issue your handicap parking permit. The permit usually arrives by mail.
5. Permit Renewal: Alabama handicap parking permits are typically valid for a specified period, usually four years. You'll need to renew your permit before it expires by submitting a new physician's certification and potentially a new application form. ALEA will provide detailed instructions on the renewal process closer to the expiry date of your existing permit.
Important Considerations:
- Proof of Residency: Be prepared to provide proof of your Alabama residency during the application process. This might include a copy of your driver's license or utility bill.
- Photographs: Some applications might require a photograph; refer to the current ALEA guidelines for specific requirements.
- Processing Time: Allow sufficient time for the processing of your application. Check the ALEA website for estimated processing times.
- Temporary Permits: In certain circumstances, temporary permits might be available. Inquire with ALEA about the eligibility criteria and application process for temporary permits.
- Violation Penalties: Misuse of a handicap parking permit is a serious offense and can result in significant fines and penalties.
Contacting the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)
For the most up-to-date information, including application forms, instructions, and contact details, please visit the official Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website. This is the definitive source for all matters relating to handicap parking permits in Alabama. Always refer to the official ALEA resources for the most accurate and current information.
This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult the official Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website and resources for the most accurate and current information.
