Federal Handicap Parking Laws

Spaces

• Parking lots are required to have at least one handicap-accessible space per 25 parking spaces. Spaces for cars must be at least 60 inches wide, and van-accessible spaces should be at least 96 inches wide. The space needs to be wide enough to allow an aisle to the left or right of the vehicle. If there are between 50 and 400 spaces, at least one space should be for a van. Spaces must be near an accessible route to the building or attraction.
  
  

Signs

• Signs designating handicap parking spaces show the "international symbol of accessibility" (a stick figure in a wheelchair) on the front. The sign is to be at least 60 inches from the ground and must be clearly visible even if there is a vehicle parked in the space. Although not required, the handicap symbol is often painted in the space in blue and white.
  
  

License Plates

• The individual states are responsible for issuing handicap license plates. A physician must determine that the person applying has a condition that, according to GPO Access, "limits or impairs the ability to walk." The vehicle must be registered in the applicant's name. States are not allowed to charge more for a handicap plate.
  
  

Placards

• States can also issue a removable placard that is hung from the rear-view mirror. It is determined on a physician's recommendation. Individuals with a handicap plate can also apply for one placard. A temporary placard expires after six months of issue. Placards allow parking because a passenger has a limited ability to walk.
  
  

Conditions

• Some qualifying conditions to receive handicap parking privileges are cardiac problems, arthritis, use of oxygen or inability to walk 200 feet without resting. Wheelchairs, crutches, canes and prosthetics are included.
  
  

Violations

• Parking in a handicap spot without the proper license plate or placard is a violation of the law. Fees vary, but they usually run about $250 for the first offense. Some cities have doubled that amount, and may also include community service. Without the proper identification clearly visible, vehicles can be towed, even if there is a placard elsewhere in the vehicle. Using a placard or license plate to park in a handicap spot without the person to whom it was issued present is also illegal.