Parallel Parking Your Way to Parking Privileges: How to Snag a Handicap Placard in Florida
Florida sunshine, beaches, and... the eternal struggle to find a decent parking spot. But fear not, fellow Floridians with temporary or permanent disabilities, because there's a magic little rectangle that can elevate your parking game from "circling the lot like a shark" to "parked in the coveted spot closest to the entrance." That's right, we're talking about the handicap placard, the holy grail of stress-free parking.
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| How To Get Handicap Placard In Florida |
Step 1: Assembling Your Parking Posse
First things first, you'll need a little team to get this placard party started. Here's who you gotta recruit:
- You, the magnificent mobility maestro: This one's a no-brainer. You're the star of the show, the one with the (temporary or permanent) qualifying disability.
- Your medical professional: They'll be your Gandalf the Grey, guiding you through the process with their wisdom (and signature on a crucial form).
Important Note: Only licensed physicians, osteopathic physicians, chiropractors, podiatrists, optometrists (for vision-related disabilities), advanced practice nurses (under a physician's protocol), or physician assistants can be your placard-granting wizards.
Step 2: The Paperwork Pursuit (Don't worry, it's not that bad)
Now, for a little paperwork tango. You'll need to waltz over to your local county tax collector's office and snag a copy of form HSMV 83039, also known as the "Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit." This form is basically your ticket to placard paradise.
Fill 'er up! You and your medical professional will need to fill out this form together. They'll provide the details about your disability, and you'll do the fancy signature thing.
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
Pro Tip: Make sure your medical professional signs the form within the last 12 months. Stale signatures are a no-go for the placard police.
Step 3: The Grand DMV Finale (Not as scary as it sounds)
With your completed application in hand, it's time to face the DMV... well, not exactly. Most counties allow you to submit your application by mail, online, or in person at the tax collector's office. #Winning
Don't forget the ID: You'll also need to show proof of your Florida driver's license or ID card.
Fee-fi-fo-fum! There's a small fee for your temporary placard, usually around $15. But hey, that's a small price to pay for prime parking real estate.
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
And then... Voila! Your temporary placard should arrive in the mail within a few weeks. Congratulations, you're now a parking VIP (Very Important Parker)!
Wait, there's more! For those with permanent disabilities, you can apply for a permanent placard which needs to be renewed every four years. The process is similar, just follow the same steps with a fresh application form.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions (the fun kind, not the boring kind)
How to channel my inner champion and park like a pro with this placard?
Easy! Hang your placard from your rearview mirror, making sure the permit number is visible from the outside. Find a designated handicap parking spot (they're usually wider and closer to the building) and park like a champ.
Tip: Reading twice doubles clarity.
How to avoid the wrath of the parking gods (a.k.a. parking enforcement)?
Don't abuse your placard privileges! It's meant for those who genuinely need it. Always park in designated handicap spots and follow the time restrictions posted on the signs.
How to not get your placard confused with a cool collector's item?
It might be tempting to hang your placard on your backpack or wear it as a fashion statement, but resist the urge! The placard is for designated handicap parking only.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
How to outsmart a placard thief (because seriously, who steals those?)
Placard theft is a real thing, believe it or not. When you're not using your car, store your placard in a safe place inside the vehicle.
How to celebrate your parking prowess?
Find the closest ice cream store, park in a handicap spot (legally, of course!), and enjoy a celebratory scoop for conquering the world of Florida parking. You deserve it!
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