Handicap Placard vs. Handicap License Plates: Which is Right for You in New York?

Handicap Placard vs. Handicap License Plates: Which is Right for You in New York?

Introduction

Navigating the intricacies of obtaining the right privileges for disability parking in New York can be confusing. It's essential to understand the difference between handicap placards and handicap license plates in New York to ensure you have the appropriate credentials and access to the necessary parking spaces. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the distinctions between these two options, eligibility criteria, application processes, and frequently asked questions regarding parking privileges in the state of New York.

What Are Handicap Placards and Handicap License Plates?

Handicap Placards

Overview: Handicap placards, also known as disability parking permits, are portable identification cards that hang from your vehicle's rearview mirror or are placed on the dashboard. These permits are designed for individuals with temporary or permanent disabilities, providing them with access to designated parking spaces.

How Placards Work: When you display a placard, it allows you to park in specially designated parking spaces. These spaces are strategically located for easier access to buildings and facilities. Permits can be used in any vehicle you are traveling in, as long as you are present.

Handicap License Plates

Overview: Handicap license plates, on the other hand, are specialized license plates issued to individuals with permanent disabilities. These plates are permanently attached to the vehicle and serve as a visible indicator of the driver's eligibility for designated parking spaces.

How License Plates Work: Vehicles with these license plates are allowed to park in designated spaces, just like those with passes. However, the key difference is that the privilege is linked to the vehicle, not the individual. This means that anyone driving the vehicle with the license plate can use the designated parking spaces.

Eligibility for Placards and License Plates

Handicap Placards Eligibility

Temporary Disabilities: Handicap placards in New York are typically issued to individuals with temporary disabilities that affect their mobility. This may include injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions that hinder walking.

Permanent Disabilities: Individuals with permanent disabilities, such as those related to mobility, vision, or cardiac conditions, are also eligible for disability permits. These conditions must be certified by a licensed healthcare professional.

Applicants' Responsibility: To be eligible, applicants must provide medical documentation of their disability and have it certified by a medical professional. The severity of the disability, as well as its expected duration, will determine whether the permit is issued on a temporary or permanent basis.

Handicap License Plates Eligibility

Permanent Disabilities Only: Disability license plates in New York are exclusively for individuals with permanent disabilities that substantially impair their mobility. These disabilities should be expected to last for a minimum of three years.

Medical Certification: To obtain license plates, applicants must provide medical certification from a licensed healthcare professional stating the nature of the disability, its permanence, and the need for parking privileges.

Vehicle Ownership: It's important to note that the person with the disability must either own or lease the vehicle to which the disability license plates will be assigned.

How to Apply for Placards and License Plates

Applying for Placards

1. Obtain Medical Documentation: Visit your healthcare provider and obtain a medical certification that clearly states your disability, whether it's temporary or permanent, and the expected duration of the disability.

2. Complete Application Form: Download the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Application for a Parking Permit or License Plates, also known as Form MV-664.1. Complete the form accurately.

3. Submit the Application: Mail the completed application form, along with a copy of your medical certification, to the address provided on the form. Be sure to include any applicable fees.

4. Receive Your Placard: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your pass in the mail. Once your permit is issued, be mindful of the expiration date to ensure timely renewal.

Applying for License Plates

1. Get Medical Certification: As with disability passes, start by obtaining medical certification from your healthcare provider, clearly stating your permanent disability.

2. Complete the Application: Download Form MV-664.1 from the New York DMV website. Fill out the form accurately, ensuring that you select "License Plates" as the type of parking pass you are requesting.

3. Submit the Application: Mail the completed application form, along with the required medical certification, to the address provided on the form. Include any applicable fees.

4. Vehicle Registration: If your vehicle is not already registered in New York, you will need to register it or transfer the plates to your existing New York registration.

5. Receive Your Plates: Once your application is processed and approved, you will be issued license plates.

Differences Between Placards and License Plates

While both passes and license plates grant access to designated parking spaces, they differ in several key aspects:

1. Portability: Passes are portable and can be used in any vehicle you are traveling in, as long as you are present. License plates are affixed to a specific vehicle.

2. Transferability: Permits are issued to individuals and are non-transferable. License plates are linked to the vehicle, allowing anyone driving the vehicle to use designated parking spaces.

3. Duration: Passes can be issued for temporary or permanent disabilities, while license plates are only for permanent disabilities.

4. Vehicle Ownership: Passes are not tied to vehicle ownership, whereas license plates require the vehicle to be owned or leased by the person with the disability.

5. Visibility: License plates provide a visible indicator of disability status at all times, while permits are only visible when displayed in the vehicle.

6. Replacement Process: Replacing a lost or stolen pass is typically easier and faster than replacing lost or stolen license plates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for both a permit and license plates?

Yes, you can apply for both a handicap placard and license plates if you meet the eligibility criteria for each. However, you will need to complete separate applications and provide the necessary medical certification for each.

2. How much does it cost to obtain a disability permit or disability license plates in New York?

There is no fee associated with obtaining a permit, however license plates have a $28.75 fee in New York. However, policies and fees may change over time, so it's essential to check the latest information on the New York DMV website or contact them directly for current fee information.

3. Can I use a disability permit or disability license plates from another state in New York?

New York State recognizes disability permits and license plates issued by other states, and you can use them to access designated parking spaces in New York. However, it's essential to familiarize yourself with New York's specific rules and regulations regarding disability parking to ensure compliance.

4. What should I do if my disability permit or disability license plates are lost or stolen?

If your permit is lost or stolen, you can typically request a replacement from the New York DMV by filling out a replacement form and providing the necessary documentation. For lost or stolen disability license plates, you should contact the DMV to report the loss and request a replacement.

5. Can family members or caregivers use a vehicle with disability license plates to access designated parking spaces?

Yes, vehicles with disability license plates can be used by family members or caregivers to transport individuals with disabilities and access designated parking spaces. The privilege is associated with the vehicle, not the individual.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between handicap placards and handicap license plates in New York is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Whether you have a temporary or permanent disability, knowing which option suits your needs and how to apply for it can greatly simplify the process of accessing designated parking spaces. By following the eligibility criteria and application procedures outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you have the appropriate credentials to make parking more accessible and convenient for yourself or a loved one with a disability. Always remember to check the latest information on the New York DMV website for any updates or changes in policies and fees related to parking privileges.