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Pennsylvania Handicap Parking Placard

Pennsylvania Handicap Parking Placard: Eligibility, Laws, Requirements, Application, and Other Information

Pennsylvania Handicap Parking Placard

Introduction 

The PA Department of Transportation offers a Pennsylvania Handicap Parking Placard to residents who have a qualifying disability parking placarddisability parking placardehi can be in the form of temporary placards, permanent stickers disability parking placard, or disabled veteran license plates, depending on the type of disability the applicant has. In this article, we will discuss the eligibility requirements, laws, application process, and other important information related to the PA handicap placard.

Eligibility Requirements 

In order to be eligible for a Pennsylvania handicap parking  card, an individual must have a qualifying disability. Qualifying disabilities include, but are not limited to, restricted use of one or both arms, inability to walk 200 feet without resting, legal blindness, severe lung disease, need for assistive devices for mobility, and severe mobility limitations due to a neurological, orthopedic, or arthritic condition. Additionally, individuals who are in loco parentis of anyone with a qualifying disability may also be eligible for a disability parking placard.

Laws 

When an individual is issued a Pennsylvania handicap parking placard, there are certain laws that must be followed in order to retain the permit and avoid penalties. The  card should only be displayed on the rearview mirror when parked in a designated disability parking space and removed when the motor vehicle is in motion. It is also only lawful to use the card if the individual was issued the stickers directly or is transporting someone with the stated disability. Falsely claiming a disability in order to receive a disability permit or knowingly using a permit when not entitled to one may result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Requirements for Application 

Individuals who meet the eligibility requirements for a Pennsylvania disabled parking stickers must complete the Person with Disability Parking card Application (Form MV-145A), which must be notarized. A medical professional, such as a licensed physician, chiropractor, podiatrist, physician’s assistant, or certified registered nurse practitioner, must complete the medical certification section of the application. If an individual is applying for a disabled veteran license plate, the application must certify that the disability is 100% service-related or the individual has a permanent disability as a result of military service.

Application Process 

The completed application, along with the medical certification section, must be submitted to the PA Department of Transportation. Applicants may also obtain online medical certification from a licensed physician in PA. Temporary stickers are valid for up to six months and cannot be renewed, while permanent stickers are valid for up to five years and can be renewed by completing the form mailed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation prior to expiration. License plate renewals are completed at the time of renewing the motor vehicle registration.

Pennsylvania Handicap Parking Placard

Other Information 

Individuals who require an extension of the validity of their temporary stickers must fill out a new application and obtain a new medical certification. Our licensed physicians are available in every state to help individuals determine their eligibility for receiving a disability parking sticker in PA.


How do you obtain a handicap stickers in Pennsylvania? 

To obtain a disability stickers in PA, disabled residents can apply through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The process involves completing the Person with Disability Parking placard Application (Form MV-145A) and having it notarized. Additionally, the medical certification section of the form must be completed by a medical professional such as a licensed physician, a chiropractor, a podiatrist, a physician's assistant, or a certified registered nurse practitioner. The type of permit issued will depend on the type of disability a person has, as determined by a medical professional.

Can you park free at a meter with a disability card in PA? 

Yes, a disabled person with a disabled permit  can park free of charge at a metered parking spot, as long as the spot is designated for disability parking. The placard must be displayed properly while the motor vehicle is parked, and removed while the vehicle is in motion. However, if the handicapped parking space is not designated for disabled parking, the person must pay for the parking like any other person.  As long as you have sicker - the police officer will not give a ticket.

How long does it take to get a disability card in PA? 

The time it takes to get a permit  in varies. If a person applies in person, they may receive their stickers immediately. However, if the application is mailed in, it may take up to 14 days to process the application and mail out the stickers .

Where can I pick up a disability stickers near me? 

After applying for a disability permit , it will be mailed to the address provided on the application. However, if a disabled person needs a disabled permit  immediately, they can go to a local Department of Transportation office and obtain the card in person.

Is a PA handicap placard valid in other states? 

Yes, a PA permit  is generally valid in other states. However, the specific parking laws and regulations may vary from state to state, so it's important to check the local laws and regulations before parking in a disability spot in another state.

How much does a disability placard cost in PA? 

There is no fee for a disabled permit  in Pennsylvania. However, there may be a fee for a disabled veteran license plate or other specialty plates.

Is it illegal to use someone else's handicap placard in PA? 

Yes, it is illegal to use someone else's disability permit  in PA. The sticker is only valid for the person to whom it was issued or for someone who is transporting the person with the disability. Falsely claiming a disability or knowingly using a handicap stickers when not entitled to it could result in significant penalties, including a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both.

How do I renew my handicap placard in PA? 

To renew a Pennsylvania Handicap Parking Placard, the PA Department of Transportation will mail a renewal form to the person before the placard expires. The DMV form must be completed and mailed back to the Department of Transportation before the expiration date. Temporary placards cannot be renewed, and a new application must be submitted to obtain a new temporary placard.

The state is rich in history, natural beauty, and diverse culture, offering a wide range of destinations for travelers to explore. Here are seven to ten of the most interesting places to visit in PA:


Gettysburg National Military Park:

The site of one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War, Gettysburg National Military Park is a must-visit for history buffs. The park covers over 9,000 acres and includes the battlefield, cemetery, and museum. Visitors can take a guided tour, watch reenactments, and pay their respects at the Soldiers' National Cemetery. Website: https://www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm


Hershey's Chocolate World:

Located in Hershey, Pa, Hershey's Chocolate World is a fun destination for chocolate lovers of all ages. Visitors can take a tour of the chocolate-making process, participate in interactive exhibits, and shop for souvenirs. The park also includes a chocolate-themed amusement park, Hersheypark, with over 70 rides and attractions. Website: https://www.hersheys.com/chocolateworld/en_us/home.html


Fallingwater:

Designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater is a stunning house built over a waterfall in the Laurel Highlands region of Pa. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and surrounding grounds, which are now a National Historic Landmark. Website: https://fallingwater.org/


The Liberty Bell:

Located in Philadelphia, The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American independence and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Visitors can view the bell up close and learn about its history at the Liberty Bell Center, located in Independence National Historical Park. Website: https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm


Longwood Gardens:

With over 1,000 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows, Longwood Gardens is a botanical paradise in Kennett Square. Visitors can explore the various gardens, attend concerts and performances, and learn about horticulture through workshops and classes. Website: https://longwoodgardens.org/


The Andy Warhol Museum:

Located in Pittsburgh, The Andy Warhol Museum is the largest museum in the United States dedicated to a single artist. The museum features a collection of Warhol's art, as well as exhibits on his life and career. Visitors can take guided tours, attend events and workshops, and even create their own Warhol-inspired artwork. Website: https://www.warhol.org/


Presque Isle State Park:

Located in Erie, Presque Isle State Park is a beautiful natural area with over 13 miles of beaches, trails, and waterways. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, and even swim in Lake Erie. The park also offers boat rentals and guided tours. Website: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/PresqueIsleStatePark/Pages/default.aspx


Philadelphia Museum of Art:

One of the largest art museums in the country, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum's collection includes over 240,000 works of art, ranging from ancient to contemporary, with a particular focus on American art. Visitors can take guided tours, attend lectures and performances, and participate in workshops and classes. Website: https://www.philamuseum.org/


Valley Forge National Historical Park:

Located just outside of Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park is the site of the Continental Army's winter encampment during the American Revolutionary War. Visitors can tour the park's historic buildings and monuments, hike the many trails, and attend reenact

References:

  1. Pa Department of Transportation. (n.d.). Parking stickers for persons with disabilities. 
  2. Commonwealth of Pa. (2022). Chapter 37: Parking for Persons with Disabilities. 
  3. Disability Rights Pa. (2017). The law and you: Parking for people with disabilities