Indiana Disability Parking Placards and Plates for Individuals with Autism
Indiana Disability Parking Placards and Plates for Individuals with Autism
Families of individuals with autism often navigate situations that may not be fully understood by others. For some individuals, safely moving through a busy parking lot, remaining close to a building entrance, or managing transitions in crowded public spaces can present significant challenges.
Many families may not realize that certain individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder may qualify for an Indiana disability parking placard or disability license plate.
Who May Qualify?
According to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, a disability parking placard or license plate may be issued to an individual who has specific diagnosed levels of autism spectrum disorder and is certified as eligible by a healthcare provider.
An autism diagnosis alone does not automatically guarantee eligibility. Qualification is based on the individual’s specific diagnosis and needs, and the required application must be completed and certified by an appropriate healthcare provider.
The Indiana BMV also recognizes several other qualifying conditions, including certain mobility limitations, visual impairments, neurological impairments, and serious heart or lung conditions.
Disability Parking Placards
A disability parking placard allows an eligible individual to use parking spaces designated for people with disabilities.
Placards may be issued on a permanent or temporary basis. Permanent placards generally do not expire unless a healthcare provider determines that the person’s disability is no longer permanent. Temporary placards expire on the date provided by the healthcare provider or one year after issuance, whichever comes first.
Organizations that provide services or transportation to people with disabilities may also qualify for a company disability parking placard.
Disability License Plates
Eligible individuals may also apply for a disability license plate. In certain circumstances, the plate may be issued for a vehicle that is regularly used to transport the eligible person, even when the vehicle is registered to someone else.
Disability plates are available for several types of vehicles, including passenger vehicles, qualifying trucks, motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, mini-trucks, and recreational vehicles.
How to Apply
Individuals and families can apply by completing the Indiana BMV’s Application for Disability License Plate or Parking Placard, State Form 42070.
The current version of the form must be used, and a healthcare provider will need to complete the appropriate certification section. The completed application can be submitted at an Indiana BMV branch or mailed according to the instructions provided with the application.
Families should review the eligibility requirements and application instructions directly through the Indiana BMV before applying.
More information and State Form 42070 can be accessed by clicking here.
Supporting Accessible Communities
Disabilities do not always look the same, and the needs of individuals with autism can vary significantly. For an individual who qualifies, access to designated parking may provide greater safety, reduce barriers, and make participation in community activities more manageable.
At BAI, we believe that connecting families with helpful information and community resources is an important part of our mission. By promoting understanding and accessibility, we can continue working together to Enhance Lives throughout our community.
Visit the Indiana BMV’s Disability Parking Placards and Plates webpage to review the complete requirements and download the application.