Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly in Georgia

Introduction

When it comes to parking in Georgia with a permit, knowing the rules and regulations is crucial. Displaying your disability permit correctly not only ensures your convenience but also helps maintain accessibility for those who need it. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the dos and don'ts of displaying your handicap placard in Georgia, providing you with expert advice, insights, and answers to frequently asked questions.

How to Obtain a Placard

Obtaining a Georgia handicap placard is the first step to parking legally in designated spaces. Here's how to do it:

Visit your local Georgia Department of Driver Services office.
Complete the Application for Disabled Person's Parking Affidavit.
Provide a medical certification from your healthcare provider.
Pay the required fee, if applicable.
Receive your disability pass, which is typically valid for four years.

Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly in Georgia

It's essential to display your disability pass correctly to avoid fines and ensure accessibility. Follow these tips:

Hang It from the Rearview Mirror: Hang the permit from the rearview mirror so that it is visible from the front windshield.
Make Sure the Information Is Legible: Ensure that all information on the pass, including the expiration date, is legible and easily readable.
Use It Only When the Designated Person Is in the Vehicle: Disability passes are only valid when the person they are assigned to is in the vehicle. Avoid using it if the designated person is not present.
Remove It When You're Not Parked in a Designated Disabled Space: Take down the placard when you're not parking in a designated handicap parking space.
Don't Alter the Permit: Do not alter or tamper with the permit in any way. It should remain in its original condition.

Handicap Placard Renewal

Handicap placards in Georgia typically expire after four years. To renew, follow these steps:

Complete the renewal application.
Provide updated medical certification if required.
Pay any necessary renewal fees.
Your renewed placard will be valid for another four years.

Common Mistakes with Disability Placards

To ensure you are always in compliance, avoid these common mistakes:

Using an Expired Pass: Using an expired onecan result in fines and penalties.
Letting Others Borrow Your Placard: Your pass is for your use only. Letting others borrow it is against the rules.
Not Displaying It Properly: If your permit is not clearly displayed, you may still be fined.
Using a Lost or Stolen Permit: If your pass is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the Georgia Department of Driver Services and get a replacement.

Handicap Parking Fine

Fines for violating handicap parking regulations in Georgia can be hefty. It's essential to follow the rules to avoid fines and ensure accessibility for those who need it. Fines can range from $100 to $500 depending on the severity of the violation.

Accessible Parking in Georgia

Georgia is committed to providing accessible parking for individuals with disabilities. It's essential to use designated parking spaces only when you or the designated person is in the vehicle. This ensures that those who truly need these spaces have access to them.

FAQs

Q: Can I use my disability permit in other states? A: Yes, most states in the U.S. recognize disability permits from other states. However, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific rules and regulations of the state you are visiting.

Q: Can I lend my pass to a family member or friend? A: No, disability passes are for the designated person's use only. Lending it to someone else is against the rules and can result in fines.

Q: What should I do if my permit is lost or stolen? A: If your permit is lost or stolen, report it to the GA Department of Driver Services immediately and request a replacement.

Q: How can I apply for a disability pass in GA? A: To apply for a pass in Georgia, visit your local GA Department of Driver Services office, complete the required application, provide medical certification, and pay any necessary fees.

Q: What if I forget to hang my permit and receive a ticket? A: If you forget to hang your permit and receive a parking ticket, you may contest the ticket by providing proof of your disability permit.

Q: Are disability passes transferrable between vehicles? A: Yes, handicap placards are transferrable between vehicles as long as the designated person is in the vehicle when it's parked in a designated space.

Conclusion

Displaying your handicap placard correctly in Georgia is not only a matter of convenience but also a legal requirement. By following these tips and adhering to the rules and regulations, you can ensure accessibility for those who need it and avoid fines. Remember to use your permit responsibly, and if you ever have questions or concerns, consult the GA Department of Driver Services for guidance.

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