Overview of Georgia Handicap Parking Permits
The Georgia Department of Revenue issues disabled parking placards through local county tag offices. These placards, also known as hang tags, are available for eligible individuals. The application process requires submission to the county tag office. These permits offer parking privileges.
Issuing Authority and Availability
The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR), specifically its Motor Vehicles Division, holds the responsibility for issuing Disabled Persons Parking Placards within the state. These placards are not available through Department of Driver Services (DDS) Customer Service Centers. Instead, individuals seeking a placard must apply through their local county tag office. This system ensures that applications are processed at a local level. Placards are accessible throughout Georgia, offering a decentralized application process. The DOR oversees the standards and regulations, while the county tag offices handle the direct issuing to the residents. This structure is designed for convenient accessibility for all eligible residents. The county tag office is the primary point of contact for all related inquiries and applications.
Application Process for Handicap Placards
To apply, individuals must obtain the Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit (Form MV-9D) from the Georgia Department of Revenue. The completed form must be submitted to the local county tag office.
Required Form⁚ MV-9D Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit
The crucial document for obtaining a Georgia handicap parking permit is the MV-9D Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit. This form, essential for both placards and disabled license plates, must be completed accurately. It requires personal information and certification by a licensed Georgia physician. The form is available from the Georgia Department of Revenue website. The MV-9D form must be completed entirely. It should be either typed or electronically completed and printed. Handwritten forms will not be accepted. This affidavit serves as the primary application for disability parking privileges in Georgia. The applicant must complete it carefully to avoid delays. It is a vital part of the application process.
Completion and Submission of the Application
To complete the application process for a Georgia handicap parking permit, the MV-9D form must be filled out accurately. This includes personal details and medical certification. The completed form, along with any required documents, must be submitted in person to the applicant’s local county tag office. The application cannot be done online or at Department of Driver Services locations. It is important to ensure all sections are filled out correctly to avoid any delays. The applicant is required to submit the form to the county tag office where they reside. This in-person submission is essential for processing the application effectively. Submission by mail is not an option.
Types of Handicap Permits
Georgia offers both permanent and temporary parking placards. Additionally, disabled persons can apply for special license plates. These options cater to varying needs and durations of disability.
Permanent vs. Temporary Placards
Georgia provides two main types of handicap placards⁚ permanent and temporary. Permanent placards are for individuals with long-term disabilities. These placards are valid for an extended period. In contrast, temporary placards are issued for those with temporary impairments or conditions. These temporary placards have an expiration date. Both types require a completed Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit (Form MV-9D). A medical professional must certify the disability. The duration of the placard depends on the nature of the disability. Permanent placards require less frequent renewal compared to temporary placards. It’s important to note that even permanent placards have an expiration date and require renewal. The type issued depends on the duration of the applicant’s disability.
License Plates for Disabled Persons
In Georgia, eligible individuals can also obtain disabled person license plates. These plates offer the same parking privileges as placards. Unlike placards, these plates are affixed to a specific vehicle. To apply, the vehicle owner must submit the Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit (Form MV-9D). This form includes vehicle information, which is not required for placards alone. Disabled veteran license plates are provided free, though vehicle taxes may apply. If a disabled person’s license plate is requested, then any existing plate must be returned. Standard registration fees apply to disability license plates. It is important to note that a disabled person can apply for both a placard and a license plate. The application must be submitted to the local county tag office. The plates must be renewed.
Requirements and Eligibility
To qualify for a Georgia handicap permit, applicants must obtain medical certification from a licensed physician. The physician must complete the required Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit (Form MV-9D). This verifies the applicant’s disability.
Medical Certification by a Georgia Physician
A crucial step in obtaining a Georgia handicap parking permit involves securing medical certification from a licensed physician within the state. This certification is documented on the Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit, Form MV-9D. The physician must verify the applicant’s qualifying disability, providing detailed information regarding the nature and extent of the impairment. This form serves as official confirmation that the individual meets the state’s criteria for handicap parking privileges. The physician’s signature and professional details are mandatory on the form, ensuring its validity for the application process. The medical certification is essential and without it, the application cannot proceed. The medical professional must be licensed in Georgia.
Information Required on the Application Form
The Georgia Disabled Persons Parking Affidavit, Form MV-9D, requires specific details from the applicant. This includes the applicant’s full name, current residential address, and either a Georgia driver’s license number or photo ID number. Accurate completion of these details is important to avoid delays in the processing of the application. Furthermore, the form requires the applicant to specify whether they are applying for a parking placard, a disabled person license plate, or both. The vehicle owner information is only required if a disabled persons license plate is also being requested. The applicant must check the relevant boxes depending on the application type. The application must be typed or electronically completed then printed.
Renewal and Replacement
Georgia disability parking placards and license plates expire, even for permanent disabilities. Renewals require presenting the expiring placard and Georgia ID. Lost placards require a replacement application process.
Renewal Procedures for Expiring Placards
To renew a Georgia handicap parking placard, individuals must present their expiring placard along with their valid Georgia driver’s license or photo ID card. It’s important to ensure the address on your ID matches your current county of residence, as renewals are typically handled at your local county tag office. The process involves verifying your identity and the validity of the existing permit. Even if the original permit was issued for a permanent disability, renewals are still required at specified intervals, so it is important to keep track of the expiration date. Failure to renew on time may result in the loss of parking privileges. Remember to check your local tag office for specific requirements.
Replacement of Lost or Damaged Placards
If your Georgia handicap parking placard is lost or damaged, you’ll need to apply for a replacement. The process typically requires visiting your local county tag office in person. You will likely need to complete a form indicating that your original placard has been lost or damaged. Along with the form, you may need to provide your Georgia driver’s license or photo ID for verification purposes. A replacement fee may apply, and it’s important to inquire about the specific cost at your tag office. Once the application is approved, a new placard will be issued, allowing you to continue using designated parking spaces.
Usage and Validity
Georgia disability parking permits are valid statewide and are also recognized nationwide under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, it is wise to check local regulations when traveling.
Validity of Georgia Permits in Other States
Georgia-issued disability parking placards and license plates are generally valid across the United States, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This federal law ensures that states recognize each other’s disability parking privileges, allowing individuals with disabilities to park in designated spaces when traveling outside of Georgia. While the ADA provides a baseline for nationwide recognition, it is always advisable to check the specific regulations of the state or locality you are visiting, as some areas may have additional rules or restrictions. Checking local regulations is a good practice to ensure compliance and avoid any parking issues while using your Georgia-issued permit out of state.
Cost and Fees
Permanent disability placards are free, while temporary placards cost $5. Disability license plates have a $20 fee, plus applicable taxes. Standard vehicle registration fees also apply for disability plates.
Fees Associated with Handicap License Plates
When applying for a disabled person’s license plate in Georgia, applicants should be aware of several fees involved. The base cost for a disabled person’s license plate is $20. This fee is in addition to any other applicable charges, such as ad valorem tax and Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT), if applicable. If the vehicle already has a valid Georgia license plate and a disabled person’s plate is requested for the same vehicle, the existing Georgia license plate must be surrendered to the tag office. It is important to note that while permanent disability tags are free, standard vehicle registration fees are still applicable when obtaining a disability license plate. Disabled veteran license plates are issued free of charge, although vehicle taxes may still apply.