Can I Get an Accessible Parking Permit if I Have Mesothelioma?

Any chronic illness like a lung disease or terminal cancer that makes it difficult for you to get around could qualify you for an accessible parking permit. Mesothelioma patients may have mobility issues or regularly experience shortness of breath, weakness or pain, particularly while undergoing treatment.

While most people with mesothelioma can apply for an accessible parking permit, how you obtain the permit depends on your state. The federal Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 requires specific rules to determine accessible parking spaces at private and public parking lots. However, each state has its own set of rules to qualify for a permit.

Variations in State Permit Applications

Since every state is different, the application will also vary from state to state. For example, Florida residents diagnosed with mesothelioma will need to apply for an accessible parking permit through the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

On many state applications, there are several types of reasons for requiring an accessible parking permit listed. For instance, if you live in Florida, an option potentially applicable to mesothelioma survivors that can be check marked is: “Restriction by lung disease to the extent that the person’s forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for 1 second, when measured by spirometry, is less than 1 liter or the person’s arterial oxygen is less than 60 mm/hg on room air at rest.” This condition is found on applications in most states.

The use of portable oxygen is another option that may be listed on the application that can be appropriate for people diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease. Florida residents, for example, can also apply via mail or in person at a tax collector’s office. Check with your home state to find out if you also have alternative ways of applying that may be more convenient for you.

Steps in Obtaining a Permit

The first step in obtaining your accessible parking permit is finding out which agency in your state issues these permits. Depending on your state, it could be your DMV, local tax collector’s office, a county treasurer’s office or a county clerk’s office. 

Searching your state’s website can help point you in the right direction. Applying for an accessible parking permit is free.

Applying for Your Permit

1. Decide what type of permit you need. There are temporary and permanent options. 
2. Gather the required documentation before applying.
3. Ask your doctor to help you fill out your application. Your doctor may also be able to offer you a written statement describing your specific condition, which can be attached to your application.
4. Complete and submit your application. 

Once you receive your placard, it applies only to you and isn’t associated with one particular vehicle. This means only you may use your placard when you’re inside a vehicle as either a driver or a passenger.

Even a permanent accessible parking permit is only valid for a set number of years, per your state. If you need to keep the permit, you’ll eventually have to reapply. You can expect a renewal notice before your permit expires. 

Always remove your placard from the rearview mirror while your vehicle is in motion. Then place it back on the mirror once you’ve parked.