Laws and permits for people with disabilities in Georgia

When it comes to disabled driving licenses, each state has its own rules. Georgia has its own specific rules for obtaining a driver's license and/or license plate with a disability.

Let's start with your rights.

How do you know if you qualify as a disabled driver in the state of Georgia? Below are some of the conditions that will allow you to obtain a driver's license and/or a disabled license plate in the state of Georgia.

• If you have lost the ability to use both hands.

• If you suffer from severe arthritis that interferes with your ability to walk.

• If you can't walk 150-200 feet without stopping to rest.

• If you suffer from a lung disease that interferes with your ability to breathe.

• If you have a heart condition classified by the American Heart Association as class III or IV.

• If you are legally blind.

• If you have hearing problems.

If you have one or more of these conditions, then it is highly likely that you qualify for a disabled parking permit and/or a license plate in the state of Georgia.

Now that you have established your entitlement, you need to decide if you want to get a permit or a license plate.

If you are suffering from a temporary disability, a temporary residence permit is probably the best choice. Temporary parking permits are valid for 180 days, while permanent and special parking permits are valid for four years.

It is important to note that all parking permits (temporary, permanent and special permits) are issued free of charge and must be applied in person at the local county office.

Some offices may accept applications by mail. Contact the Georgia DOR to find out if your county accepts mailed applications.

Depending on the severity of your disability, you will be eligible for a temporary, permanent, or special permit. A licensed doctor will determine the severity of your disability. Special permits are reserved for those with modified cars or those who cannot use both hands.

How to apply for a permit?

To apply for a permit, you must complete a Disabled Parking Affidavit (Form MV-9D).

This form requires a medical clearance, meaning you must have a licensed physician certifying that you have a medical condition that qualifies you for a disabled driver's license and/or license plate.

Examples of licensed physicians include:

Osteopath, chiropractor or orthopedist

Ophthalmologist or optometrist

General doctor

You must then apply in person at your local county office or contact the office and inquire about mailing an application.

Are plates and license plates free?

Disabled license plates are charged $20 and plates are provided free of charge. To obtain a Georgia Disabled Driver License Plate, you follow the same process as when applying for a plate: complete Form MV-9D and mail the form in person to your local county office.

Another option is to complete a Vehicle Title/Tag Application (Form MV-1) and personally mail it to your local county office. Form MB-1 is available for download on the website. Driver's license plates for the disabled, as well as permanent and special permits, are valid for four years.

What if I'm a veteran?

Georgia is also offering eligible veterans license plates for disabled drivers. To be eligible, you must have 100% disability status, loss of legs or arms, and/or loss of vision. You will also need to complete a Special Veterans License Plate Request (Form MV-9W).

In addition, you will need to provide proof of your disability. You can do this by submitting a letter of VA eligibility for a VA-certified disability or a statement certified by your doctor stating that you are suffering from a disability. Finally, you must provide proof of your military service. To do this, you can submit your resignation papers with documentation of your current service. There is no charge for disabled veteran license plates, although be aware that you may still be liable for vehicle taxes.

Where am I allowed or not allowed to park with my parking permit?

While a disabled parking permit allows you to park in many places, some are still restricted. These include bus and loading areas; zones marked "no stopping at any time"; and striped lots next to handicapped parking spaces. Also, make sure you show your nameplate in your rearview mirror so law enforcement can see it if they need to. Driving with a sign hanging on a mirror can obscure your view of the road, so it is recommended that you only show the sign after you have parked in your spot.