From the blue and white plastic rectangular cards that dangle from rearview mirrors to the license plates stamped with the universal symbol of disability, signifiers that a driver is entitled to special parking accommodations span a range of types.

There are permanent parking placards, which are good for five years. There are also placards for severely disabled veterans, also good for five years. Temporary disability placards are good for up to six months, and there are decals for motorcycles driven by severely disabled veterans, which are good for the bike's registration period.Who's eligible for the placards? Those who are blind; don't have full use of their arms or legs; can't walk 200 feet without stopping to rest; can't walk with the help of crutches, canes, walkers, another person, prosthetic devices, wheelchairs or other assists; have severe lung disease; use portable oxygen tanks; have serious cardiac conditions; have serious arthritic, neurological, or have orthopedic conditions.The placards are also available to those who care for a person who has any of those disabilities.To obtain forms to apply for the placards, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation at

www.dmv.state.pa.us. Or call 800-932-4600, or 800-228-0676 for the hearing impaired.