Albertans with vision loss now eligible for disabled parking placards, plates

A generic photo of an accessible parking space. (Source: Jacek S/Pexels)

The Alberta government has expanded the eligibility for disabled parking placards and licence plates, effective immediately, to include those with vision loss.

The changes do not replace existing eligibility criteria but do include vision-related safety needs as a new category alongside current mobility requirements.

A parking placard allows people who cannot walk 50 metres to use disabled parking stalls. The spots are meant to make everyday activities accessible.

In a news release, the government said the change recognizes that accessibility is not limited to mobility needs.

“For many Albertans with vision loss, getting from the parking lot to the front door can be the hardest part of the trip,” red tape reduction minister Dale Nally said. “This change recognizes and helps people get where they need to go safely.”

There are currently three types of parking placards available:

• temporary: issued for between three and 12 months
• long-term: issued for five years
• permanent: renewed every five years without needing extra medical certification

Albertans with proper medical certification can also get a licence plate with the official disabled driver logo.

The eligibility expansion was made after consultation with provincial advocacy organizations, municipalities, registry agents, health professionals, law enforcement and government partners.

Municipalities are responsible for determining where parking spots are located, how many and what size, as well as the enforcement of spot use.