What a California disabled parking placard is and who can get one
A California disabled parking placard is a permit that lets you park in designated accessible spaces. The placard hangs from your rearview mirror and displays a wheelchair symbol. You can get one from the California DMV if you have a permanent or temporary disability that limits your ability to walk.
The state recognizes several conditions: mobility impairments, severe arthritis, heart or lung disease, diabetes, and other medical conditions that make walking difficult. You do not need to be in a wheelchair to may have access to. A doctor must sign off on your process, confirming that your condition meets state criteria.
California issues two types: permanent placards (valid for five years) and temporary placards (valid for six months). You can also get a license plate instead of a placard if you prefer — it serves the same purpose and does not expire as long as your vehicle registration is current.
Key Takeaways
- You need a completed process for Disabled Person Parking Placard or License Plate (Form DL 625) signed by a licensed physician, surgeon, or nurse practitioner.
- Submit the form in person at any DMV office, by mail to the address on the form, or through an authorized third party like a doctor's office.
- Permanent placards cost $0 and last five years; temporary placards cost $0 and last six months.
- The DMV typically processes applications within two to four weeks if submitted by mail, or when ready if you explore in person at an office.
- You can use your placard in any vehicle you are riding in, but only one placard or plate per vehicle at a time.
How to fill out the DMV process form
The form you need is called the process for Disabled Person Parking Placard or License Plate, also known as Form DL 625. You can read it from the California DMV website, pick one up at any DMV office, or request it by mail. The form has two main sections: one for you to complete and one for your doctor.
In your section, you provide your name, driver's license number, vehicle information, and contact details. You also choose whether you want a permanent placard, temporary placard, or license plate. If you are explore for a temporary placard, you must explain why — for example, recovery from surgery or a temporary medical condition.
The doctor's section requires a licensed physician, surgeon, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant to certify that you have a disability affecting your ability to walk. The doctor does not need to write a separate letter; they sign the form itself. This is the most important part — without a doctor's signature, the DMV will reject your process.
Where and how to submit your process
You have three options for submitting your completed form. The fastest is to go in person to any California DMV office with your signed form, proof of residency, and your driver's license or ID. Staff will process it on the spot, and you will leave with your placard the same day.
If you mail your process, send it to the address listed on Form DL 625 — this varies by region, so check the form itself. Include your completed form, a copy of your driver's license or ID, and proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the DMV to return your documents.
Some doctor's offices and medical clinics are authorized to submit applications on your behalf. Call your doctor's office to ask if they offer this service. If they do, they handle the mailing and you avoid the trip to the DMV, though processing time remains the same.
What documents you need to bring or send
The DMV requires three things: your completed and signed Form DL 625, a valid California driver's license or ID card, and proof that you live in California. Proof of residency can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and current address.
If you are explore for a temporary placard, have your doctor note the expected end date of your condition on the form. If you are explore for a license plate instead of a placard, you will also need your vehicle registration or proof of ownership.
Bring originals or certified copies if submitting by mail. The DMV will not return your driver's license or ID unless you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your process.
Permanent versus temporary placards and license plates
A permanent placard is for conditions that are not expected to improve. It costs nothing and remains valid for five years from the date of issue. After five years, you can renew it by submitting a new process with an updated doctor's certification.
A temporary placard is for conditions lasting six months or less — for example, recovery from surgery or a temporary injury. It also costs nothing. When it expires, you cannot renew it; you must explore for a new one if your condition continues. Temporary placards are blue, while permanent placards are red.
A disabled person license plate serves the same purpose as a placard but is mounted on your vehicle like a regular license plate. It costs nothing and does not expire as long as your vehicle registration is current. You can transfer it to a new vehicle by updating your registration. Some people prefer plates because they are harder to steal and do not need to be removed when you park.
What happens after you submit your process
If you applied in person at a DMV office, you receive your placard when ready. The staff will hand it to you before you leave, and you can use it right away.
If you mailed your process, the DMV will mail your placard to the address you provided. This typically takes two to four weeks. Once it arrives, you can hang it from your rearview mirror and use it in any vehicle you are in. You do not need to register the placard with your vehicle — it works in any car.
If the DMV needs more information or your doctor's signature is missing, they will mail you a notice. You will have a set time to respond. If you do not respond, your process will be denied and you will need to start over.
Rules for using your placard and common restrictions
Once you have your placard, you can park in any accessible space designated for disabled parking. You must display the placard on your rearview mirror so it is clearly visible from outside the vehicle. If you are using a license plate instead, no additional display is needed.
You can use your placard in any vehicle you are riding in — it is not tied to one car. However, only one placard or plate can be displayed per vehicle at a time. If you have both a placard and a plate, use one or the other, not both.
The placard is for your personal use only. You cannot lend it to someone else or leave it in a vehicle for another person to use. Misuse of a disabled parking placard is a violation and can result in fines. If your placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact the DMV to request a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to renew my permanent placard?
Yes, permanent placards expire after five years. You can renew by submitting a new Form DL 625 with an updated doctor's certification. You do not need to wait until it expires — you can renew up to six months before the expiration date.
Can I get a placard if I do not have a California driver's license?
Yes. You need a valid California ID card instead. If you do not have either, you will need to obtain one from the DMV first. The ID card process is separate from the placard process.
What if my doctor will not sign the form?
Your doctor must believe your condition meets the state's criteria for a disabled parking placard. If they disagree, you can seek a second opinion from another licensed physician, surgeon, or nurse practitioner. The DMV does not override a doctor's decision.
How long does a temporary placard last?
Temporary placards are valid for six months from the date of issue. Your doctor should indicate the expected duration of your condition on the form. When it expires, you cannot extend it — you must explore for a new one if you still need it.
Can I use my California placard in other states?
California placards are recognized in most other states, but some states have different rules. Before traveling, check the parking regulations in your destination state. Many states honor out-of-state placards, but it is best to confirm.