How to Get an Accessible Parking Placard in Your State

Photo of an older man parking his car in the accessibility parking space at the store. He has the parking placard on his rearview mirror.

An accessible parking placard lets you park in spaces close to the entrance of stores, clinics, and other places you visit. Many people call it a handicap placard or a disabled parking permit. It can make trips to the store or the doctor easier and safer.

Each state runs its own program, but the steps are much the same everywhere. This guide explains who can get a placard, the types you can choose, and how to apply. At the end, you will find a link for every state and Washington, D.C.

How it works across the country

There is a federal model for placards and plates. Every state has its own placard law, and most follow at least part of that model.

The office that gives out placards depends on your state. In most states, it is the DMV. In some states, it is another government office. Check with your state to see where to apply for one – there’s a list at the end of this article.

  • In Alabama, it is the Department of Revenue.
  • In Michigan, it is the Secretary of State.
  • In Hawaii, each county handles it.
  • In New York, your city, town, or village clerk.

Who can get a placard

The federal model lists who can get one. A doctor or other provider must sign off. You may qualify if:

  • You can’t walk 200 feet without resting.
  • You need a cane, walker, wheelchair, brace, or another person to help you walk.
  • You use portable oxygen.
  • You have a serious lung or heart problem.
  • Arthritis or a nerve or bone problem makes walking very hard.

Some states add more. About half of states let people who are blind get a placard to use when they ride with someone.

Who can sign the form also depends on your state. Many states accept more than a doctor. In California, a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, chiropractor, or eye doctor can sign. Your state’s form will tell you who can sign.

Types of placards and plates

Permanent placard

This is the blue placard that hangs from your mirror. It shows a white wheelchair symbol on a blue background. It also shows an ID number and an end date. How long it lasts depends on the state. In Arizona, the blue placard never runs out. Most states make you renew it every few years.

Temporary placard

This is the red placard. It is for a short-term problem, like healing after surgery. Under the federal model, it lasts up to 6 months. Some states allow longer. In Washington, it can last up to 12 months. Nevada also has a placard that lasts up to 2 years.

Accessible license plates

Plates are only for people with a disability that won’t go away. A plate stays on 1 car. A placard goes with the person. You can use it in any car you ride in.

Disabled veteran plates

Many states have plates for veterans hurt during their service. The rules change a lot from state to state.

  • Who can get one: Many states use your VA disability rating. Alaska needs a rating of 50% or more. Nevada needs 100%.
  • Where you can park: A veteran plate does not always let you park in accessible spaces. In Missouri, it only does if the plate has the wheelchair symbol. In Oregon, it does not. In North Dakota, it does.
  • Extra perks: In Florida, cars with a DV plate don’t pay to park.

If you are a veteran, check your state’s rules. You may need a regular placard too.

Other types

Some states have other choices:

  • Travel placards: California gives a 30-day placard to people who already have a permanent one.
  • Placards for groups: Michigan gives green placards to groups that drive people with disabilities.
  • Free meter parking: In Illinois, only the yellow placard lets you skip paying at meters. The blue one does not.

How to apply

  1. Get the form. Find it on your state’s website, listed below, or at a local office.
  2. Fill out your part. Add your name, address, and license or ID number.
  3. Have your provider sign. Your doctor or other provider fills out the health part. In some states, like Wisconsin, providers can send it online.
  4. Send it in. Most states take forms by mail or in person. Some take them online.

Cost: Many states don’t charge for a permanent placard. A temporary placard may cost a little. Florida charges $15. Plates usually cost the same as regular plates.

Renewing: This depends on your state. In Colorado, you must show you still qualify every 3 years. In Missouri, the state mails some people a new placard on its own. Check the end date on your placard and plan ahead.

Using your placard in another state

Most states accept placards and plates from other states. You can usually park in accessible spaces anywhere in the country.

Local perks may not carry over. Illinois accepts out-of-state placards, but they don’t get free meter parking there. In Hawaii, you can park in accessible spaces, but you still pay to park. Follow the rules of the place you visit.

Rules for using a placard

  • The person with the disability must be in the car. Someone else can drive, as long as they are taking that person.
  • Take it down when you drive. In Minnesota, driving with it hanging up blocks your view and breaks the law.
  • Misuse can cost you. In Oregon, fines for repeat misuse range from $440 to $2,000.

Tips for care partners

  • The placard goes where the person goes. You can use it when you drive a loved one to an appointment.
  • Keep the ID card close. Some states give you a card with the placard. In Washington, you should carry it in case police ask.
  • Set a reminder. Put the end date on your calendar so the placard doesn’t run out.
  • Give it back when it is no longer needed. In Washington, the placard must go back to the state right away if the holder dies. Other states have similar rules.

Common questions

How long does a temporary placard last?
In most states, up to 6 months. Some states allow 12 months or more.

Can I use my placard in another state?
Yes. Most states accept placards from other states. Local rules, like meter fees, may be different.

Does a disabled veteran plate let me park in accessible spaces?
It depends on your state. Some states need you to get a regular placard too.

Do I have to own a car to get a placard?
Not always. In Georgia, for example, you don’t need a car. Plates do need a car in your name.

Is there a fee?
Many states give permanent placards for free. Some charge a small fee for temporary ones.

The bottom line

Getting an accessible parking placard is easier than many people think. Talk with your provider, fill out your state’s form, and send it in. A placard can make daily trips safer and less tiring for older adults and their care partners.

Find your state’s rules and application

Because states may update their websites, links here may not go straight to the exact page.

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The information on SenseAble Living is educational and general in nature. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice, and it does not account for your specific circumstances. Consult a qualified attorney, physician, or financial professional before making decisions about care, benefits, finances, or health.