Disability Plates for Motorcycles in Massachusetts

A scooterist parks in a handicapped space at the mall. The rider walks into the mall and goes shopping. Is that OK? Here, in Massachusetts, it can be. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) distributes blue plates and placards to motorcyclists who are eligible.

Who are these disabled motorcyclists? I met one man, afflicted with HIV, he has good days and bad. He lives on social security disability income. He would not be able to afford a reliable car, but he can afford a very nice scooter. Even on his bad days, riding the scooter to appointments, shopping and to visit friends gives him a psychological lift. Often, when disabled parking spaces are not available, the scooter allows him to park closer than if he were driving a car.

In Massachusetts, applying for a disability plate is easy. This information is available on the Massachusetts RMV web site www.Mass.gov/rmv. First, obtain the application. Applications are available by calling the RMV phone center, (617) 351-4500 for area codes 339, 617, 781, or 857 area codes or from out-of-state, or call (800) 858-3926 from other area codes withing Massachusetts. Full service RMV locations carry this application. Those who are even a little computer savvy may prefer to download the application from the RMV's web site, http://www.mass.gov/rmv/forms/index.htm.

Fill out and sign the form with your physician, chiropractor or nurse practitioner. Disabled Veteran plate applications must include a DV plate letter from the Veterans' Administration. Then take the form to an RMV office or mail the form to:

Attn: Medical Affairs Branch

Registry of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 55889
Boston, MA 02205-5889

How disabled is a rider who qualifies for a disability plate? They must meet one of these standards:

• Cannot walk 200 feet without stopping to rest.
• Cannot walk without the assistance of another person, prosthetic aid or other assistive device.
  
• Are restricted by severe lung disease.
  
• Use portable oxygen.
  
• Have a debilitation heart condition.
  
• Have debilitating arthritis.
  
• Have lost one or more limbs or permanently lost the use of one or more limbs.
• (The author has left out the vision standard as those who are legally blind must surrender their license.)

To be eligible for a Temporary Placard, the medical professional must certify that the disability is predicted to last at least two (2) months.

Disability plates and placards may be permanent or temporary depending on the reason for disability. Permanent plates are renewable every five years. Temporary plates elapse in two to 24 months.