Provider Notes

Florida handicap parking rules, and what counts as misuse

What the permit allows, who may use it, and the penalties Florida applies when one is used by someone it was not issued to.

Who is the placard for?

The check is free. About 2 minutes, no card needed.

If you qualify and book, the visit is $119.

Quick answer

A Florida disabled parking permit may only be used when the person it was issued to is driving or is being transported in that vehicle. It is not a parking benefit that transfers to family members for their own errands. Misuse is a criminal offense under section 320.0848, Florida Statutes, and permits can be revoked.

Who may use the permit

The permit belongs to a person, not to a car and not to a household. It may be used when the permit holder is driving, or when they are a passenger being transported. A family member may drive the permit holder and use the space. That same family member may not use the space to run their own errands while the permit holder is at home.

Florida requires the permit holder to have their Florida driver license or ID card with them when the permit is in use, so the permit and the person can be matched.

How to display it correctly

Do you pay at meters in Florida?

Florida law provides for permit holders to park without charge in metered spaces in many circumstances, and time limits are generally extended. This is one of the most commonly searched questions and also one where local rules vary the most: municipalities and private lots set their own conditions, and some airports and event venues are treated differently. Check the posted signs where you are parking, and your local city rules, rather than assuming a statewide answer applies everywhere.

Penalties for misuse

Using a disabled parking permit that was not issued to you, or using one when the holder is not present, is a criminal offense in Florida, not a parking ticket. Penalties include fines, and permits obtained or used improperly can be revoked. Parking in a designated accessible space without a valid permit also carries a substantial fine, and the vehicle can be towed.

The practical point for anyone applying: this is a credential tied to a genuine medical limitation, and Florida treats it that way.

Accessible parking spaces and access aisles

The striped area beside an accessible space is an access aisle, not a parking space. It exists so a wheelchair, walker or lift can be deployed. Parking in it, even partially, blocks the space for the person using it, and it is enforced.

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Out-of-state permits in Florida

If you are visiting Florida from another U.S. state, your home state permit is generally honored for accessible parking here. If you are visiting from another country, Florida provides a route to apply for a temporary permit. Either way, local time limits and posted restrictions still apply.

Reviewed for accuracy against Florida Statutes and current FLHSMV forms by Dr. Barry Schapiro, MD (FL license ME92972) and Dr. Dean Fishman, DC (FL license CH00007509). Last reviewed August 2026. This page is general information about the Florida application process and is not medical advice.

Questions

Can my spouse use my handicap placard?+

Only when they are driving you, or transporting you. The permit may not be used for their own trips when you are not in the vehicle. Florida treats that as misuse.

Do I pay for metered parking in Florida with a placard?+

Florida law provides exemptions in many circumstances and generally extends time limits, but municipalities, private lots, airports and venues set their own rules. Check the posted signs where you park.

What happens if someone misuses a placard?+

It is a criminal offense under section 320.0848, Florida Statutes, not a parking ticket. Fines apply and the permit can be revoked.

Can I park in the striped area next to an accessible space?+

No. That is an access aisle, not a parking space. It exists so a wheelchair, walker or vehicle lift can be deployed, and blocking it is enforced.

Related

Renewing your placardWhat Florida needs at renewalLost or stolen placardHow to get a replacementForm HSMV 83039The application form explained

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Questions? Call (754) 233-0586, Mon-Fri 9 AM to 6 PM ET.

The $119 fee covers the doctor's medical evaluation, not approval of a permit. Certification is at the doctor's discretion and is not guaranteed. Disabled parking permits and plates are issued by your county tax collector or tag agency, not by Provider Notes. Provider Notes is not affiliated with any government agency.

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