Navigating the process of obtaining a handicap placard, also known as a disabled parking permit, in Colorado can significantly enhance the accessibility of travel and daily life for individuals with disabilities. These placards offer crucial benefits, allowing for designated parking spaces closer to destinations, reducing the physical strain of extended walking. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to secure a handicap placard in Colorado, ensuring a smooth and informed experience for all eligible residents.
Understanding Handicap Placards in Colorado
A handicap placard, or disabled parking permit, is a state-issued identification that grants individuals with qualifying disabilities the right to park in designated accessible parking spaces. These spaces are strategically located in public parking lots and on streets across Colorado, offering greater convenience and reducing physical barriers for those with mobility impairments. The placards are typically issued by the Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR), Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Types of Permits Available
In Colorado, there are two primary types of disabled parking permits:
- Temporary Placards: These are issued for individuals with a medical condition that is expected to last for a limited duration, typically up to six months. Renewal is possible if the disability persists.
- Permanent Placards: These are issued for individuals with a long-term or permanent disability. While the placard itself may have an expiration date for administrative purposes, the underlying eligibility is generally considered permanent unless circumstances change significantly.
Both temporary and permanent placards are typically issued as a hanging placard that can be displayed from the rearview mirror of a vehicle. In some cases, a disabled license plate may also be an option for permanent permit holders, which is affixed directly to the vehicle’s license plate.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a handicap placard in Colorado, an individual must have a qualifying disability that significantly impairs their mobility. This is determined by a licensed medical professional. Common qualifying conditions include, but are not limited to:
- Mobility Impairment: Difficulty walking due to a chronic lung disease, serious heart condition, or severe neurological condition.
- Inability to Walk a Certain Distance: The inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest, or the need for a wheelchair, brace, cane, crutch, or other assistive device.
- Legally Blindness: In Colorado, individuals who are legally blind may also qualify for a disabled parking permit.
It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if your condition meets the state’s eligibility requirements.
The Application Process
The process for obtaining a handicap placard in Colorado is designed to be straightforward, involving a medical certification and a formal application.
Step 1: Obtain a Medical Certification Form
The first and most critical step is to secure the official Colorado Disabled Parking Permit Application form. This form is available for download from the Colorado DMV website or can be obtained directly from any county or state motor vehicle office.
The application form includes a section that must be completed and signed by a licensed medical professional. This includes:
- Physicians: Doctors of Medicine (MD), Doctors of Osteopathy (DO).
- Podiatrists: For conditions affecting the feet and lower extremities.
- Optometrists: For individuals applying based on legal blindness.
- Chiropractors: Only for conditions specifically related to their scope of practice that impact mobility.
Your healthcare provider will assess your condition and certify whether you meet the state’s criteria for a disability that necessitates the use of accessible parking.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Once the medical certification is obtained, you will need to complete the applicant section of the Disabled Parking Permit Application form. This typically includes providing:
- Your Full Legal Name: As it appears on your identification.
- Your Date of Birth:
- Your Colorado Driver’s License or Identification Card Number: If you have one.
- Your Residential Address:
- Contact Information: Phone number and email address.
You will also need to indicate whether you are applying for a temporary or permanent placard.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Completed applications, including the physician’s certification, can be submitted through several channels:
- In Person: Visit any Colorado county or state motor vehicle office. It is advisable to check the specific requirements of your local office, as some may recommend or require appointments.
- By Mail: Applications can be mailed to the Colorado DMV. The mailing address is typically found on the application form or the DMV’s official website. Ensure you include all required documentation.
Important Note: For individuals applying for a disabled license plate instead of a placard, the process may involve additional steps and fees related to vehicle registration.
Fees and Processing Time
There is typically no fee for obtaining a handicap placard in Colorado. However, if you opt for a disabled license plate, there will be standard vehicle registration fees and potentially a small fee for the special plates.
The processing time for handicap placards can vary. If submitted in person at a motor vehicle office, you may receive your placard on the same day. Mail-in applications may take longer to process and for the placard to be mailed to you, often within a few weeks.
Using Your Handicap Placard Responsibly
Once you have your handicap placard, it is essential to use it correctly and responsibly to ensure continued access to accessible parking for those who truly need it.
Displaying Your Placard
The placard must be displayed prominently when the vehicle is parked in a designated accessible parking space. This typically means hanging it from the rearview mirror. When the vehicle is in motion, the placard should be removed from the mirror and stored securely.
Authorized Users
The handicap placard is issued to the individual with the qualifying disability, not to the vehicle. This means the placard should only be used when the permit holder is either driving the vehicle or is a passenger in the vehicle. It is illegal to use a placard belonging to someone else or to allow someone else to use your placard when you are not present.
Renewals
Temporary placards have an expiration date, usually six months after issuance. If the disability persists, a new application, including a new medical certification, will be required for renewal. Permanent placards also have an expiration date for administrative purposes, typically every five years. While you will need to renew the placard, the underlying disability does not need to be re-certified unless requested by the DMV or if your medical condition has changed significantly. You will receive a renewal notice by mail.
Penalties for Misuse
Misusing a handicap placard is a serious offense and can result in significant penalties. These can include fines, the revocation of the placard, and even criminal charges. It is vital to adhere to the regulations to maintain the integrity of the accessible parking system.
Traveling with Your Handicap Placard
The accessibility provided by a handicap placard extends beyond Colorado. Understanding reciprocity is key for travelers.
Out-of-State and International Travel
Handicap placards issued in Colorado are generally recognized in other U.S. states and many foreign countries, provided they adhere to similar standards for disabled parking permits. When traveling, always look for the International Symbol of Access (ISA) – the wheelchair symbol – to identify designated parking spots.
If you are traveling to a different state or country, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with their specific regulations regarding disabled parking. Some jurisdictions may have limitations on the duration for which an out-of-state placard is valid or may require you to obtain a temporary local permit.
Planning Accessible Travel Experiences
Having a handicap placard opens up a world of possibilities for accessible travel. When planning trips, consider destinations that are known for their commitment to accessibility. Many national parks, museums, and attractions offer accessible facilities and parking.
For example, when visiting Denver, you can expect accessible parking at major attractions like the Denver Art Museum and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Similarly, in Aspen, ski resorts and town centers are increasingly accommodating to visitors with disabilities.
When booking accommodation, whether it’s a hotel in downtown Denver, a luxury resort in Vail, or a cozy cabin in the Rocky Mountains, inquire about their accessible parking options and proximity to entrances. Many establishments are equipped with designated accessible parking spaces.
By understanding the application process and utilizing your handicap placard effectively, you can ensure that your travels in and beyond Colorado are as convenient and enjoyable as possible, allowing you to fully experience the attractions and destinations you desire.
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