Same as the one of the other posters. I have been issued one since my collision last year. It is due to be renewed in May I believe, at that point, it will likely be for the 5 year period, as the don't expect my ankle to get any better than what I have now.
Same as him, I use the permit on "bad days" when walking from the far end of the lot, into say a Walmart, then walking around inside is simply going to be too much. There are also days, when my ankle may be fine, but my shoulder injury is acting up, and it is difficult to carry, even a 5 lb bag.
On my "good days" it is still displayed but I don't use a parking space, rather I leave those for someone who may be in worst shape than I.
Go ahead, and challenge me, if you wish, just because I "may appear" healthy to you at that time, doesn't mean I am capable, of doing what someone else "thinks" I should be. My doctor has until now, (10 months post collision), only provided 3 month intervals, as he feels, he needs to monitor it. But my Orthopedic, and my Physio, and my Occupational Therapist all agree, I have pretty much reached my full potential, and this is my life going forward.
The only "advantage" I get is when I need to attend my local clinic, where the parking lot is a zoo, is that in Oshawa, the city provides FREE on street parking to those with a permit. UT, I am only at that clinic for therapy or to see one fo the many medical specialists, I am required to see. I am NOT in a handicapped spot, just a regular street space.
