Disabled Driving Laws and Permits in Kentucky

Disabled driver laws vary from state to state. It is important that you know the laws not only of the state where you live, but also of the states where you may be staying or traveling.

In Kentucky, a driver is eligible for disabled parking if they:

• Must carry oxygen at all times

• A wheelchair, crutch, cane, or other assistive device is required.

• Cannot speak within 200 feet without needing assistance or stopping to rest.

• Has heart disease classified by the American Heart Association as class III or IV.

• Has a lung condition that severely limits the person's ability to breathe

• Has severe visual impairment

• Suffer from a neurological, arthritic, or orthopedic condition that limits their mobility.

If you believe you have one or more of these conditions, you may be eligible for a Kentucky disability plate and/or license plate.

I am suffering from one of these conditions. What should I do now to secure the plate and/or license plate?

The next step is to visit a licensed physician. This may be a chiropractor, osteopath, ophthalmologist, optometrist, or an experienced resident nurse. They will need to make sure you are suffering from one or more of the above conditions. Download the Application for a Special Disability License Plate, fill out as much as you can, and then take this form to your doctor and ask him or her to verify that you have a condition that qualifies you for a disabled parking license. You must also provide the serial number of the vehicle registered in your name. Finally, apply to the nearest county clerk's office.

Kentucky is unique in that they will refuse a doctor's note if your disability is "obvious". This includes a disability that can be easily identified by an official at the county clerk's office, or if you already have a Kentucky disabled license plate and/or placard.

It is important to note that Kentucky requires that your application for a disabled driver's license be notarized.

What is the difference between a disabled sign and a license plate?

In Kentucky, you can get a plaque if you have a temporary or permanent disability. However, you can only get license plates if you have a permanent disability or are a disabled veteran.

How much does a plaque cost?

Disabled parking permits can be obtained and replaced free of charge. Disabled license plates cost $21, and replacement license plates also cost $21.

How long do I have before I need to renew my disabled parking permit?

In Kentucky, you have two years before you need to renew your parking permit. After this time, you must download and complete the form that you filled out when you first applied for a disabled driver's parking permit. You will then need to mail this form to the nearest county clerk's office.

Temporary tablets are valid for up to three months, depending on your doctor's assessment. Permanent plates are valid for up to two years, while license plates are valid for one year and expire on July 31st.

Does the State of Kentucky provide any other privileges for disabled drivers besides parking?

Yes. In addition to parking, Kentucky offers a driver assessment and vehicle modification program that helps drivers with disabilities adjust to driving restrictions, as well as a TTD for the hearing impaired.

Where am I allowed to park with my parking permit?

In Kentucky, you can park anywhere you see the International Access Symbol. You may not park in areas marked "no parking at all times" or in bus or loading areas.

What if I'm a disabled veteran?

Disabled veterans in Kentucky must provide proof of eligibility. This could be a VA certificate stating that you are 100 percent disabled as a result of military service, or a copy of the General Order authorizing the Congressional Medal of Honor.

What should I do if I have lost my poster or suspect it has been stolen?

If you suspect that your disabled driver has had a parking sign stolen, you should contact law enforcement as soon as possible. If you believe you have lost your sign, complete an Application for a Special Handicapped Parking Permit, complete a sworn statement that the original sign was lost, stolen, or destroyed, and then file an application with the nearest county clerk's office.

Kentucky recognizes disabled parking signs and license plates from any other state; however, while you are in Kentucky, you must follow the rules and guidelines of Kentucky. Please be sure to check out Kentucky's Disabled Driver Laws if you are visiting or passing by.