Chaotic. Massive. Busy. Loud. Fast. Inaccessible. These are just a few words that could be used to describe New York City on any given day, which is why it can be tough to get around. But for people with disabilities, that is especially true.
Reserved parking for people with disabilities can help ensure safe and equal access to goods and services across the city — and fortunately, there are specific parking permits and transportation options for disabled New York residents which can make getting around the city a little easier. Read on to learn more about New York’s parking permits for people with disabilities and find out how you can qualify for more resources.
What kind of parking permits are offered to disabled residents in New York?
- NYC Parking Permit for People with Disabilities (NYC PPPD): Issued to individuals with permanent disabilities that significantly limit mobility. Non-drivers, including children, may also qualify. This permit allows on-street parking throughout New York City, including in certain “No Parking” zones and other restricted areas.
- Temporary On-Street Parking Permit (Temp. NYC PPD): Issued for up to three months to current permit holders while their application is under review by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH).
- NY State Parking Permit (Blue Hangtag): Issued for up to five years to individuals with qualifying mobility disabilities, certified by a New York State-licensed physician. In New York City, this permit is valid only for designated accessible parking spaces (marked with the International Symbol of Access) in off-street or private parking facilities.
- NY State Parking Permit – Temporary (Red Hangtag): Issued for up to six months to residents with temporary mobility impairments verified by a certified doctor. Allow parking in designated spots, offering the same access as the permanent blue hangtags.
What is an ISA license plate and how can I get one?
An ISA — International Symbol of Access — license plate allows for individuals with a permanent disability to park at designated accessible parking spaces at shopping centers, office or apartment buildings and college campuses throughout the country and Canada. It does not, however, automatically exempt drivers from parking fees in New York City.
Here’s what you need to bring to the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) in person:
- Application form or statement from a healthcare provider to proof disability
- If you are registering this car for the first time, you also need to bring all documents for vehicle registration and complete a vehicle registration form (MV-82)
- Proof of identity
- Check, money order or credit card for $28.75 fee for a new plate
What disabilities qualify me for a disability parking permit or license plate?
To qualify for a disability parking permit and/or license plates in New York, an individual must have a permanent condition that significantly limits mobility. Common qualifying conditions include:
- Use of portable oxygen
- Legal blindness
- Limited or no use of one or both legs
- Inability to walk 200 feet without stopping
- Severe neuromuscular conditions
- Serious cardiac conditions (Class III or IV)
- Severe mobility limitations due to arthritis, neurological, or orthopedic conditions
- Advanced lung disease affecting breathing capacity
- Other comparable physical or mental impairments that make mobility very difficult
Temporary permits (typically valid for up to six months) may also be issued for short-term conditions that require mobility aids like crutches or a walker…