“Can we get a disability parking permit for autism?” My wife wondered about that many times because of how challenging our son can be if there are no parking spaces close to a store.
This is a question many parents of autistic children with intense support needs have probably asked themselves when they put up a fight. Let’s look at what you may need to know if you are considering getting an autism disability parking permit.
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Does autism qualify for disability parking?
The answer to this question is mostly yes, but accessibility can vary from country to country. In the United States, autism is recognized as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
That means almost every single state allows for parents of children with autism to apply for a disability placard. However, the application process is different in almost every state.
Most US states require certification from a healthcare provider to receive a parking permit for a disability. A doctor’s evaluation will also determine whether the person is eligible for permanent, long-term, or temporary placards.
Around the world, many European countries are recognized for their accessibility for those in need of a disability spot.
The European Conference of Ministers of Transport provides similar disability parking rules for 43 countries. It has partnerships with the United States, Canada, Australia, and others to ensure the same protections when its members travel.
Meanwhile, countries in Asia, Africa, and South America tend to have less accessible parking for those with disabilities, including autism. Some countries on these continents, like South Africa, have made major inroads into improving disabled access.
However, other countries may have fewer accessible parking spaces and unpaved roads, making it harder for people with disabilities to get around.
How to apply for a disability parking permit with autism
Once again, the application process can vary from country to country or state to state if you live in the United States. However, almost every country, state, or province has applications for a disability placard on their official government website.
In my local state, the application must be submitted to my child’s healthcare provider. That means my wife and I are required to print out the application and physically take a copy to the doctor to fill out.
After my son’s doctor completes the certification section, we can upload the application through the website and submit it or physically take it to the local Department of Motor Vehicles office.
While that is one of the simpler avenues available, some states or countries may require additional paperwork with an official diagnosis. You’ll have to check your nearby government website to determine which documentation you need.
A doctor’s certification will also determine what type of disability parking placard you receive. They may approve an applicant for a permanent, long-term, or temporary placard. Many temporary placards can be placed over a car’s rearview mirror while parked.
A more serious issue, like a physical or mental impairment, may lead to the requirement of disability license plates to note a permanent or long-term issue.
Possible issues
Applying for a disability parking permit for autism will not always be easy. Some states or countries only allow in-person application submission, which may mean taking a day and traveling to your nearest application office.
Many bureaucratic delays can take place during the application process, making it harder for families of people with autism as they fight for a parking placard. This can include issues with local, state, or federal government.
Plus, many states and countries grant parking placards and license plates only for a limited time. Many applicants then need to apply for renewal, which sometimes imposes unusual hardship on them.
The requirements for being eligible for a disability parking permit may have changed, and applicants may need to get new documentation from their doctor.
Additional options for autism
If getting a disability placard isn’t an option, different forms of public transportation are available to help those with autism.
Many states offer community ride programs that recruit volunteer drivers. They take people with autism to appointments or drop them off at a store if they are considered high-functioning and want to run errands.
In many communities, buses, trains, and trolleys offer disability discounts for physical or mental impairments. If a person is severely limited and can’t make it to a medical appointment, medical transportation programs are designed to help them.
Accessible parking for easier outings
While most families enjoy getting out and seeing the world, severely limited access for people with autism can be discouraging. However, most countries and states have made it easier for those taking care of people with autism to get a disability placard for their vehicle. This can open up many more parking spaces, allowing more access to the world.
A parking placard can make it easier for parents to park closer to a building if their child is often belligerent. Navigating the application process can be challenging due to the required documentation, shifting eligibility criteria, and bureaucratic delays. However, once you have the placard in hand, it opens the door to a range of accessible options.
FAQs
Q: Is autism considered a disability?
A: From a medical and legal standpoint, autism is considered a disability. This means several resources are available for people with autism, including a disability parking placard, supplemental security income, and social security disability insurance.
Q: What is autism-friendly parking?
A: Communities often provide special parking privileges for people with disabilities, including people with autism. A special disability spot and a special parking placard or license plate will provide easier access.
Q: Do autistic people get free parking?
A: While it varies between countries, states, and provinces, there are places around the world that provide free disability parking spaces for people with autism. Some of these places include the United Kingdom and Portugal.
Q: Can an autistic child get a disability placard in California?
A: Yes, California provides a disability parking placard for children with autism. They must meet eligibility requirements and submit an application with medical certification to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
Resources:
https://www.bluebadgeinsurance.com.au/blog/accessible-parking-around-the-world-best-and-worst
https://dmv.ri.gov/adjudications-suspensions/adjudication-office/disability-placards
https://www.research.chop.edu/car-autism-roadmap/obtaining-a-handicapped-placard
Sources:
Cannici, L. (2020). Autism Inclusivity in Communities: Examining Infrastructure (Master’s thesis, Saint Louis University). https://www.proquest.com/openview/d1f06d22d35ae1f26e0c1c982e0404f1/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
Manges, C. (2020). Understanding Public Transportation Accessibility for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Six Feelings Approach. https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/downloads/dj52w645c
