Disability Plates & Placards (All States)
Apply for permanent disability plates, temporary or permanent placards, and disabled veteran plates. This national guide explains eligibility, documents, fees, application methods, and how to use accessible parking legally. Select your state to see exact forms, addresses, and fees.
How to Get Disability Parking Privileges:
- Confirm eligibility: a licensed medical professional must certify your qualifying condition
- Gather documents: ID, vehicle registration (for plates), and medical certification
- Apply online, by mail, or in person: use your state’s disability application form
- Pay the fee (if any) and wait for approval; use a temporary receipt if provided
Eligibility
- Applicant has a qualifying disability that limits mobility (e.g., inability to walk 200 feet without rest, requires mobility aids, severe cardiac or pulmonary conditions, legally blind as defined by state law)
- Medical certification completed by an approved provider (MD/DO; many states accept PA/NP; optometrist for vision-related conditions; podiatrist for mobility—state-specific)
- Plates issued only to vehicles owned/leased by the person with the disability or their guardian/parent when authorized
- Temporary placards require a temporary qualifying condition and have a set expiration (commonly 1–6 months)
- Permanent placards issued for long-term conditions; renewal cycles vary (commonly 2–6 years) and may require periodic re-certification
- One placard per eligible person is standard; some states allow additional placards for caregivers with documentation
Documents
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Medical Certification
- Vehicle Registration (for Plates)
- Proof of Residency
- Veteran Documentation (for Dv Plates)
Fees & Costs (Typical Ranges by State)
- Fee — $0 Permanent disability placard (most states)
- Fee — $5–$25 Temporary disability placard (1–6 months)
- Fee — Standard registration fees apply (typically $20–$100 per year) Disability license plates (in lieu of standard plates)
- Fee — $0–$20 (often reduced or waived); standard registration may be reduced or exempt in some states Disabled Veteran (DV) plates
- Fee — $0–$12 Replacement placard
FAQ
What conditions qualify for a disability placard or plate?
Common qualifying conditions include limited mobility, reliance on assistive devices, severe lung or heart disease (e.g., Class III or IV), legally blind status, or conditions that limit walking 200 feet without rest. Your state’s form lists qualifying criteria and must be certified by an approved medical professional.
Is there a fee for a permanent disability placard?
In most states, permanent placards are free. Temporary placards usually cost about $5–$25. Disability plates typically cost the same as standard plates because they replace—not add to—your vehicle registration.
Can a caregiver use my placard without me present?
No. The placard or disability plates are issued to the person with the disability. The person must be present in the vehicle when parking in an accessible space. Misuse can result in fines, confiscation, and possible criminal penalties.
How many placards can I have?
Most states issue one permanent placard per eligible person. Some allow a second placard if justified (e.g., multiple vehicles or caregiver needs). Check your state’s specific allowance and renewal rules.
Do disability plates provide free parking at meters?
Rules vary. Some states or cities offer meter exemptions or extended times for vehicles with accessible plates or placards; others do not. Posted signs and local ordinances control meter rules even when using a valid placard.
How long does it take to get a placard or plates?
Same-day issuance is common for placards at many DMV offices. By mail, processing typically takes 7–15 business days. Plates generally arrive by mail within 2–4 weeks after approval.
State contact
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official site