For those with mobility difficulties, finding a parking space close to their destination makes all the difference to their daily lives. The parking card for people with disabilities has thus emerged as a solution to facilitate accessibility. A special badge that allows you to park in reserved spaces and, under certain conditions, in other places in a more accessible way.
But how can you get this card? Who is eligible? What are the advantages? We’ll tell you everything you need to know.
What is the parking card for people with disabilities?
It is a document that allows the holder to use reserved parking spaces exclusively for people with disabilities. The card also allows you to park in unauthorized parking spaces, provided it is absolutely necessary and for a short period of time (without compromising the circulation of pedestrians or other vehicles).
As it is a card assigned to the person and not to the vehicle, it can be used in any car that transports them.
How does it work?
Because it allows you to park in reserved spaces or in places where it would normally be prohibited, it must be placed on the windshield of the car in a visible manner, and can only be used by the holder, whether as a driver or passenger.
Misuse can result in fines and confiscation of the badge.
Who can apply for a parking card?
To obtain this card, certain requirements must be met. The application can be made by anyone who has one:
- Permanent motor or physical disability, with a degree of incapacity equal to or greater than 60%
- Intellectual disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), also with a degree of disability equal to or greater than 60%
- Permanent visual impairment, with a degree of disability equal to or greater than 95%
- Oncological disease with a disability equal to or greater than 60%, provided that the medical certificate indicates difficulties in traveling on public roads
- Disability recognized by the Armed Forces, provided it is certified by the respective Armed Forces disability card and with a degree of disability equal to or greater than 60%.
The card is issued without age restrictions and can be requested at any time.
How do I apply for a disabled parking card?
1. Online (IMT Online)
- Access the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) Portal and authenticate yourself with your financial details, Citizen Card or Digital Mobile Key.
- Choose the option “Parking card for people with disabilities”
- Fill in the form and attach the necessary documents (which we will indicate below)
- The card is sent by post to the address given.
2. By post
- Print out and fill in the model 13-IMT form
- Gather the mandatory documents
- Send everything to the IMT Regional Office in your area of residence
- The card is then sent by post.
3. At the counter
- Go to an IMT service desk
- Submit the necessary documents
- The card will be sent by post to the registered address.
Documents required
To apply for a parking card for people with disabilities, gather the following documentation:
- Model 13 IMT application (completed and signed)
- Identification document (Citizen’s Card or, in the case of foreign citizens, residence permit or passport with valid visa)
- Medical certificate of multipurpose incapacity, proving the required degree of incapacity.
Advantages of the parking card
Having this card can make all the difference to the routine of those with mobility difficulties. Some of the main advantages include:
- Parking in spaces reserved for people with disabilities, duly marked
- Possibility of parking in unauthorized places, but only when absolutely necessary and without obstructing the public highway
- Exemption from paying for parking meters in places where there is time-limited paid parking
- You can request a parking space near your home or work from the town hall. Find out how below.
How do I request a parking space near my home or work?
If you already have a parking card for people with disabilities and want to secure a reserved space near your home or workplace, you should contact the municipal services in your area of residence.
The request is made through a specific application, addressed to the mayor of the municipality or to the municipal services, indicating the place where the private parking space is to be located. The duration of the permit varies according to the rules of each municipality.
How much does it cost and how long is it valid for?
The parking card for people with disabilities is free.
It is valid for 10 years, unless the medical certificate specifies a period for reassessment of the disability. Whenever you use the card, it must be visibly displayed on the dashboard of your car.
Fines and penalties
Parking in a space reserved for people with disabilities without a card can be costly. This infraction is considered serious and can result in:
- Fine between 60 and 300 euros
Loss of two points on driving license - Possible driving disqualification of between one month and one year
- Vehicle towing and associated costs.
Need transportation? Count on Ambula!
For some journeys, your own transportation may not be the best option. If you need a safe and comfortable service for consultations, treatments or other medical appointments, count on Ambula!
