Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly in Ohio

Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly in Ohio

For individuals with disabilities, a disability tag is a vital tool that provides access to accessible parking spaces. These spaces are often located closer to building entrances and offer more room for people who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. In OH, having a disability tag helps ensure that individuals with mobility impairments can access public spaces with ease and independence.

However, properly displaying your disability tag is critical to avoid parking violations, fines, and misuse. Many people are unaware of the correct way to display their tag, or they may forget important steps in maintaining and using it. Misusing or improperly displaying a disability tag can lead to legal consequences and make it harder for those who need accessible parking.

In this article, we’ll explore how to correctly display your handicap placard in Ohio, common mistakes to avoid, and offer additional tips to ensure you make the most of your disability parking privileges. We’ll also cover frequently asked questions (FAQs) about disability tags in OH and provide valuable information about renewing, replacing, and protecting your tag.

Understanding Handicap Placards in Ohio

What Is a Disability Tag?

A disability tag, also known as a placard or permit, is a parking pass issued to individuals with qualifying disabilities that limit their mobility. In OH, these tags are issued by the state's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). They grant the holder permission to park in designated accessible parking spaces that are often closer to entrances and provide more room to accommodate individuals using mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers.

Disability tags are essential for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can more easily access public spaces such as shopping centers, medical offices, and government buildings. These tags must be clearly displayed to avoid fines or other penalties for improper parking.

Types of Disability Tags in Ohio

OH offers several types of handicap permits to accommodate different needs:

1. Permanent Disability Tag: Issued to individuals with permanent disabilities. These tags are valid for five years and must be renewed before they expire.

2. Temporary Disability Tag: Issued to individuals with temporary disabilities, such as those recovering from surgery or a short-term injury. These tags are valid for up to six months.

3. Disability License Plates: These plates are available for individuals with permanent disabilities who own or lease their vehicle. The plates are affixed to the vehicle and provide the same parking privileges as a tag.

Application Process for a Handicap Placard in Ohio

If you’re applying for a disability tag in OH for the first time, the process is straightforward, but it requires a medical certification from a licensed physician. This section will outline the steps to apply for a disability tag and how HandicapMD.com can simplify the process of obtaining your medical certification.

1. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a disability tag in OH, you must have a qualifying medical condition that impairs your mobility. Conditions such as the inability to walk without assistance, reliance on a wheelchair, or severe lung or heart conditions are typically qualifying disabilities. A licensed healthcare provider must certify that you meet the eligibility criteria.

2. Application Form

The first step is to obtain the Ohio Disability Parking Placard Application (BMV 4826) form from the state's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). You can download it online or pick up a copy at any local BMV office.

The form will require your personal details, including your name, address, and driver's license number (if applicable). A section of the form must be completed by a licensed HandicapMD healthcare provider, verifying your disability.

3. Medical Certification with HandicapMD.com

Obtaining a medical certification is one of the most critical steps in the application process. HandicapMD.com offers a convenient and streamlined way to get this certification without the hassle of visiting a doctor in person.

Here’s how the process works with HandicapMD.com:

• Step 1: Fill Out an Online Application
  Start by completing a short online form on the HandicapMD.com website. This form will ask for basic information about your medical condition and mobility limitations.

• Step 2: Consultation with a Licensed Physician
  After submitting your form, you will be connected with a licensed physician for a virtual consultation. This consultation can be conducted over the phone or via a video call, making it convenient for those with mobility challenges or those who live far from a healthcare provider.

• Step 3: Receive Your Medical Certification
  Once the physician has reviewed your medical information, they will provide you with the necessary medical certification. You can then attach this certification to your OH disability parking tag application.

• Step 4: Submit Your Application to the BMV
  After receiving your medical certification, complete the application form and submit it, along with any required fees, to the state's Bureau of Motor Vehicles either in person or by mail.

4. Submitting Your Application

Once you have your medical certification, you can submit your application to the state's BMV. You can mail it to the address provided on the form or submit it in person at your local BMV office.

For a temporary tag, there is a small fee of $5. Permanent tags are free of charge, though you will need to renew them periodically.

5. Receiving Your Disability Tag

After submitting your application, you should receive your disability tag or license plate within a few weeks. If you apply in person at the BMV, you may be able to receive your tag on the same day. Once you have your tag, make sure to follow the display tips discussed above to avoid fines and ensure your parking privileges.

Importance of Displaying a Handicap Placard Correctly

Displaying your Ohio handicap placard correctly is crucial for several reasons:

• Compliance with Ohio Law: OH state law requires that disability tags be displayed properly to avoid fines. Improper display can result in parking citations, even if you are otherwise eligible for accessible handicap parking.
• Ensuring Accessible Parking: Properly displayed tags ensure that parking enforcement officers can easily identify vehicles legally parked in accessible spaces. This helps prevent parking spaces from being misused by those who are not eligible.
• Avoiding Misunderstandings: Incorrectly displaying your disability tag may lead to misunderstandings or complaints, potentially resulting in tickets or fines.

How to Display Your Handicap Placard Correctly in OH

Whether you're using a disability tag or license plate, it's essential to follow these best practices to avoid common mistakes and ensure that your tag is always properly displayed.

1. Always Hang Your Tag on the Rearview Mirror

This is one of the simplest yet most critical steps. When parked, your disability tag should be hung on the rearview mirror with the information side facing the front of the car. This makes it easy for parking enforcement officers to see and verify your parking privileges without needing to approach the vehicle closely.

Tip: Make a habit of hanging the tag as soon as you park. Keeping it easily accessible (such as in your center console or door pocket) can help make this step easier.

2. Remove the Tag While Driving

OH law requires that the disability tag be removed from the rearview mirror when the vehicle is in motion. This is primarily for safety reasons, as the hanging tag can obstruct your view. Keep your tag in a safe, easily reachable place while driving, and remember to rehang it once you park.

3. Ensure the Tag is Visible at All Times

Even when hung correctly, a tag can sometimes become obscured, especially if it is tangled with air fresheners, parking passes, or other hanging items. Ensure that your disability placard is the only thing on your rearview mirror when parked in an accessible space.

Tip: Regularly check to make sure the tag hasn’t shifted or fallen down from the mirror. If you frequently find your tag on the floor, consider purchasing a sturdier hook or holder to keep it secure.

4. Check the Expiration Date on Your Tag 

Handicap placards in OH have an expiration date printed on the front. It's crucial to monitor this date and renew your tag before it expires. Parking with an expired tag can result in fines, even if you're otherwise eligible for accessible parking.

Tip: Set a reminder on your phone or calendar a month before your tag is due to expire. This will give you ample time to apply for a renewal without interruption to your parking privileges.

5. Use the Tag Only When the Disabled Individual is Present

OH law specifies that disability tags can only be used when the person to whom the tag is issued is present in the vehicle, either as the driver or a passenger. Misuse of the tag, such as allowing someone else to use it when the disabled person is not in the vehicle, can lead to fines or revocation of the tag.

Tip: If you are a caregiver or frequently transport someone with a disability, always ensure they are with you when parking in accessible spots.

6. Keep Your Tag in Good Condition

Disability tags can become worn over time, especially if they’re frequently moved in and out of the vehicle. A faded or damaged tag might be difficult for parking enforcement to read, potentially leading to a ticket or fine.

Tip: If your tag becomes damaged or illegible, request a replacement from the state's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) immediately.

7. Avoid Leaving Your Tag in Plain Sight When Not in Use

While it’s essential to hang your tag when parked in accessible spots, leaving it visible at all times (such as when driving or parked in non-accessible spots) can increase the risk of theft. Disability tags are valuable, and stolen ones can be misused.

Tip: Store the tag out of sight when it’s not in use, such as in your glove compartment or under a seat.

8. Regularly Clean Your Windshield and Rearview Mirror

A clean windshield and rearview mirror help ensure your tag remains visible and secure. Dirt, smudges, or frost can obscure the tag, making it harder for parking enforcement to see.

Tip: Incorporate regular windshield cleaning into your routine, especially in colder months when frost and condensation are more common.

When and Where to Display Your Tag

• While Parked in Accessible Spaces: Always display your disability tag when parking in a designated accessible space. This is a legal requirement, and failing to do so can result in a fine, even if you are otherwise eligible to park there.

• At Metered Parking: In OH, individuals with a disability tag may park for free at metered spaces for up to two hours, unless otherwise specified by local ordinances. Make sure your tag is properly displayed during this time.

• When Traveling: If you are traveling out of state, your OH disability tag will still be valid in most other U.S. states under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, parking regulations may vary, so it’s important to check local laws before using your tag in a different state.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid fines or parking violations, be mindful of these common mistakes when using your disability tag:

• Failing to Display the Tag: Forgetting to hang the tag from the rearview mirror is one of the most common mistakes. If the tag isn’t visible, parking enforcement officers won’t know you’re eligible for accessible parking, even if you park in the correct space.

• Covering the Expiration Date: Ensure that the expiration date is visible from outside the vehicle. If the tag is partially obscured, you may receive a citation for improper display.

• Leaving the Tag on the Mirror While Driving: Some individuals leave their disability tag hanging from the mirror while driving. This can obstruct your view and is against OH’s vehicle safety laws, so always remember to remove the tag before driving.

Penalties for Improper Use or Display of Disabled Permits

Fines and Consequences of Misuse

In OH, there are significant penalties for improperly displaying or misusing a disability tag. These include:

• Parking Citations: Failure to display your disability tag correctly can result in a parking citation, even if you are parked in a legitimate accessible space.

• Fines: Fines for improper use or display of a disability tag can range from $250 to $500. This applies to individuals who park in accessible spaces without displaying their tag, as well as those who misuse a tag.

• Revocation of Parking Privileges: Repeat offenses or fraudulent use of a disability tag may result in the revocation of your tag, meaning you will no longer be eligible for accessible parking privileges.

How to Avoid Violations

To avoid parking violations, follow these best practices:

• Always hang your tag from the rearview mirror when parked in an accessible space.
• Make sure the tag is fully visible, with the disability symbol and expiration date facing outward.
• Remove the tag from the mirror when driving to avoid obstructing your view.
• Only use the tag when the permit holder is in the vehicle.

Tips for Safeguarding Your Disabled Permit

Preventing Theft or Loss

Disability tags are valuable not only because they provide access to accessible parking but also because they can be attractive targets for theft. To prevent your disability tag from being stolen or lost, consider the following tips:

• Remove the Tag When Not in Use: When you’re not using the accessible parking space, remove the disability tag from your rearview mirror and store it in a safe place, such as the glove compartment or center console.

• Lock Your Vehicle: Always lock your vehicle when leaving it unattended, especially if your disability tag is displayed. This simple precaution can help prevent theft.

• Avoid Leaving the Tag in Plain Sight: When not using your disability tag, store it in a secure, hidden location in your vehicle rather than leaving it visible on the dashboard or in an unlocked compartment.

Using Placard Holders for Protection

Purchasing a placard holder is a great way to protect your disability tag from wear and tear, as well as theft. These holders typically attach securely to the rearview mirror and can make it more difficult for someone to steal the tag quickly. They also help ensure that your tag remains visible and protected from damage over time.

Keeping Track of Expiration Dates

It’s essential to keep track of your disability tag’s expiration date to avoid using an expired tag, which can result in fines and the revocation of parking privileges. Here’s how to stay on top of your renewal:

• Mark Your Calendar: When you receive your disability tag, mark the expiration date on your calendar or set a reminder on your phone to renew it before it expires.

• Renew Early: Start the renewal process at least 30 days before your tag expires to ensure you receive your new tag in time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use my OH disability tag in other states?

Yes. Disability tags issued in OH are valid in all other U.S. states under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). You can use your OH disability tag to park in accessible spaces when traveling, but be sure to check local parking regulations, as some states may have different rules regarding fees or time limits.

2. How long are disability tags valid in OH?

• Permanent disability passes in OH are valid for five years and must be renewed before they expire.
• Temporary disability passes are valid for up to six months and can be renewed if necessary.

3. What should I do if I lose my disability tag?

If your disability tag is lost or stolen, you should contact the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to request a replacement. You will need to provide proof of identity and may be required to submit a new application, depending on the circumstances.

4. Can someone else use my disability tag without me?

No. OH law states that disability tags can only be used when the person to whom the tag was issued is either driving or riding in the vehicle. Allowing someone else to use your tag without you is illegal and can result in fines and the revocation of your tag.

5. Is there a fee to replace a lost or stolen disability tag in OH?

No, there is no fee to replace a lost or stolen disability tag in OH. However, you will need to provide proof of identity and may be required to fill out a new application if your tag has been lost or stolen.

Conclusion

Properly displaying your handicap placard in Ohio is essential for avoiding parking violations and ensuring that you can continue to enjoy the benefits of accessible parking. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide—hanging the tag on your rearview mirror, removing it when driving, and ensuring it’s visible—you can avoid fines and protect your parking privileges.

Remember, your disability tag is a valuable resource, so take care to protect it from theft and misuse. Regularly check the expiration date and renew your tag on time to ensure you always have valid parking privileges. By understanding the rules and properly displaying your tag, you can make the most of your disability parking accommodations and navigate public spaces with greater ease and confidence.