The EU Parking Permit may be used by the disabled person in any vehicle in which they are travelling, either as a driver or as a passenger.

The permit is issued in relation to designated public accessible spaces (Local Authority). In the Republic of Ireland, local authorities generally allow permit holders to park free of charge once a valid permit is displayed. If a public parking area is subject to time limits, the same time limits apply to the Disabled Person’s Parking Permit also.

Privately Owned Car Parks

The laws on parking do not extend to private car parks. Spaces assigned to disabled persons in private or privately operated car parks are operated at the discretion of the car park operator and may incur charges and/or time limits.  The private operator may also choose who the spaces are allocated to in the context of overall accessibility although most recognise the EU parking permit.

Where you cannot Park

The EU parking permit gives parking entitlements only in areas where parking is allowed; parking in clearway lanes, loading bays and bus corridors is not allowed.  Possession of a parking card will not exempt you from being towed in these areas.  Parking on double yellow lines is strictly forbidden.  Parking on single yellow lines is not recommended.

Can others use the Card

The Parking Permit must only be used by the person to whom it is issued. The vehicle on which it is displayed must be parked to facilitate access by the holder, whose name and photograph are displayed on the card.  Any abuse / misuse will result in its immediate withdrawal.  In addition, those found guilty of fraud in relation to a parking permit (e.g. false declaration at the time of application, forgery of permits, the lending of a permit to another person) are liable on conviction to a maximum fine of €3,000 or a maximum term of 6 months imprisonment.

How long does the card last?

In Ireland, each EU parking permit is issued for a period of two years.  The date of expiry is clearly marked on the permit and must be clearly visible when being displayed. Each permit has an individual serial number, which must also be visible. An out of date parking permit is invalid and has no entitlements. The Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland issue Parking Permits for Disabled people (DDAI)

For further information or if you have any questions please contact: 094-9364054 or email: parkingcard@ddai.ie