Disabled Drivers Placard-Help!

Question

Hi, I have a blue disabled driver card issued in Ireland. It has the internationally recognised wheelchair emblem on it and I have used it in Europe without any problem.

I have been told that it varies in the States-Florida accepts it but we are travelling to Georgia and both South and North Carolina. I have tried umpteen sites/emails etc but still haven't got an answer. It seems to be down to each COUNTY?

I rely on this as I have walking difficulties so it would be essential for me to get it sorted before I go.

I was directed to a revenue /disabled persons license site but they are not replying to my email

Anyone experienced this problem?

Answer

Hi there!

I understand your concern about using your blue disabled driver placard while traveling in the U.S., and you're right that each state and even individual counties may have different rules regarding disabled parking permits. Here's some information that may help you navigate the situation in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina:

Georgia: In Georgia, the state typically recognizes internationally-issued disabled parking permits, including the blue placard you have. However, as you mentioned, enforcement can sometimes vary by county or city. While Georgia does accept foreign disabled parking permits, it's still a good idea to carry any supporting documentation (such as a doctor's note or a translation if needed) to help avoid confusion if you're questioned. The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) should be able to confirm this for you, but in general, the state is accommodating to international permits.
South Carolina: South Carolina also recognizes foreign disabled parking placards. The state allows the use of any placard with the internationally recognized wheelchair symbol, just like Florida does. Make sure your placard is clearly visible, and you should not face issues. As with Georgia, individual counties or cities might have slight variations in enforcement, but you should be able to use your placard without trouble.
North Carolina: North Carolina follows similar guidelines. They accept foreign-issued disabled parking placards, including those with the wheelchair emblem. As long as your placard is valid and visible, you should be fine. However, it’s always worth double-checking with local authorities if you plan to stay in a specific area for an extended period, as local regulations can sometimes differ.

Here are a few tips to make sure you don’t run into problems:

Carry Supporting Documentation: If you can get a letter from your doctor or a translation of your placard, that may help if you are asked about it, especially in smaller towns or counties where there may be less familiarity with international placards.
Contact Local Authorities: While you’ve had trouble getting through to the revenue/disabled persons license site, you could try contacting local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) offices in Georgia, South Carolina, or North Carolina directly for clarification about their rules for foreign-issued disabled placards. You could also call the local police departments in the cities you plan to visit for specific advice on disabled parking laws.
Research Local Regulations: Since some areas may be stricter about enforcement, especially around tourist attractions, be sure to double-check parking regulations once you arrive. This will help you avoid fines or issues related to parking.

To summarize, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina generally recognize international disabled parking permits with the wheelchair emblem, but local variations may exist. Carrying supporting documentation and contacting local authorities in advance can help ensure a smooth experience. I hope this helps, and I wish you a safe and enjoyable trip!

Disabled Drivers Placard-Help!

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