Florida's Handicap Parking Permit Process

Florida offers both permanent and temporary disabled parking permits to individuals with qualifying medical conditions. These permits provide access to designated parking spaces, ensuring greater mobility and convenience for those in need.

Types of Disabled Parking Permits in Florida

Permanent Disabled Parking Permit

• Validity: 4 years; expires on the permit holder’s birthday.
• Eligibility: Individuals with long-term mobility impairments or those certified as legally blind.
• Fee: No charge.
• Renewal: Requires submission of a new application with medical certification within 12 months prior to renewal.

Temporary Disabled Parking Permit

• Validity: Up to 6 months, as specified by the certifying medical authority.
• Eligibility: Individuals with short-term mobility impairments.
• Fee: $15.
• Renewal: If applied for within 12 months of the initial permit, no additional fee is required.

Qualifying Conditions

To be eligible for a disabled parking permit in Florida, an individual must have a medical condition that severely limits mobility. Qualifying conditions include:

• Inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest.
• Use of assistive devices such as braces, canes, crutches, prosthetic devices, or wheelchairs.
• Lung disease to the extent that forced expiratory volume for one second is less than one liter.
• Use of portable oxygen.
• Cardiac conditions classified as Class III or Class IV by the American Heart Association.
• Severe limitation in the ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.
• Legal blindness.

Application Process

1. Obtain Form HSMV 83039: This is the official application for a disabled person parking permit. It can be downloaded from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website.

2. Complete the Application: Fill out the applicant sections of the form.

3. Medical Certification: Have a licensed medical professional complete and sign the medical certification section. Accepted certifying authorities include:

   • Physicians licensed under Chapters 458, 459, or 460.
   • Podiatric physicians licensed under Chapter 461.
   • Optometrists licensed under Chapter 463.
   • Advanced practice registered nurses under the protocol of a licensed physician.
   • Physician assistants licensed under Chapter 458 or 459.
   • Similarly licensed physicians from another state, with accompanying licensure documentation.

4. Submit the Application: Applications can be submitted in person or by mail to a local motor vehicle service center. Include a copy of your Florida driver license or ID card.

Renewal Process

• Permanent Permits: Renew every 4 years before the permit holder’s birthday. A renewal notice will be sent prior to expiration. Submit a new Form HSMV 83039 with updated medical certification.

• Temporary Permits: Valid for up to 6 months. If the need persists, a new application with medical certification is required. If applied for within 12 months of the initial permit, no additional fee is charged.

Replacement of Lost or Stolen Permits

To replace a lost or stolen permit:

1. Complete Form HSMV 83039.
2. Obtain medical certification, if required.
3. Submit the form to a local motor vehicle service center.

Legal Considerations

Misuse of a disabled parking permit is a serious offense in Florida:

• Using a Permit Not Issued to You: Classified as a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $500 or up to 6 months in jail.
• Parking Illegally in a Designated Space: Fines up to $250.

Additional Resources

For more information on related topics, consider the following resources:

• Florida's Specialty License Plates
• Florida DMV Fees: What You Need to Know
• Essential Florida DMV Forms
• Finding a Florida DMV Office Near You

For official information and updates, visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.