What You Need to Know About Handicap Parking Permits
A handicap parking permit is issued by your state's DMV or health department and lets you park in designated accessible spaces. The form you fill out is usually called an "process for Disabled Person Parking Permit" or "Accessible Parking Permit process," though the exact name varies by state. You submit it to your DMV along with medical documentation proving you have a may have access to disability, and the state issues you a placard or license plate that you display in your vehicle.
The process is straightforward in most states: complete the form, get it signed by a licensed physician or other approved medical provider, mail or deliver it to your DMV, and wait for approval. Some states now let you submit the form online or through a third-party vendor. The time from submission to receiving your permit usually ranges from one to four weeks, depending on your state's processing speed and whether they need to verify your medical information.
Key Takeaways
- The process form must be signed by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or other medical provider your state recognizes — a self-certification alone will not work.
- You will need to provide proof of your disability, which usually means your doctor fills out a medical section of the form describing your condition and mobility limitations.
- Each state has its own form and its own list of may have access to disabilities, so a permit from one state may not work in another.
- Most states issue either a hanging placard or a special license plate; some let you choose, and some issue both for a vehicle you own and a vehicle you regularly ride in.
- Temporary permits are available in most states if your disability is expected to last fewer than six months, and they follow the same process process.
Where to Find Your State's Handicap Parking Form
Your state DMV website is the official source for the correct form. Search "[your state] DMV handicap parking permit process" or look for a section labeled "Disabled Parking" or "Accessible Parking." Most states post the form as a PDF you can print and mail, though an increasing number allow online submission through their DMV portal.
If you cannot find the form online, call your state DMV's main number and ask for the disabled parking permit process. They can mail it to you or sometimes email it. Do not use a form from a different state or an old version of your state's form — states update requirements and medical provider rules regularly, and submitting an outdated form will delay your approval.
What Information and Documents the Form Requires
The process itself asks for your name, address, driver's license number, vehicle information (make, model, license plate), and whether you want a placard or plate. You will also declare whether your disability is permanent or temporary and provide a brief description of your mobility limitations.
The medical section is the critical part. A licensed provider must complete it, stating your diagnosis, how your condition affects your ability to walk or move, and whether your disability is permanent or temporary. The provider signs and dates this section under penalty of perjury. Some states also require the provider's license number, specialty, and contact information so the DMV can verify the signature if needed.
You will need to submit the completed form along with a copy of your driver's license or state ID. Some states ask for proof of residency (a utility bill or lease) if your address has recently changed. A few states require you to include a recent photo, though most do not.
How Medical Providers Complete the Form
Your doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or other approved provider fills out the medical certification section. Each state specifies which types of providers can sign — most accept physicians and nurse practitioners, but some also allow physical therapists, occupational therapists, or social workers. Check your state's form to see the list of approved providers before you schedule an appointment.
The provider does not need to submit the form themselves; you take it to your appointment, have them complete and sign the medical section, and then you submit the whole form to the DMV. Some providers charge a small fee for completing the form, usually $10 to $25, though many do not. If your provider is unfamiliar with the form, bring a copy of your state's instructions so they understand what information the DMV needs.
may have access to Disabilities and Permanent Versus Temporary Permits
States recognize different disabilities as may have access to for a permit. Common ones include mobility impairments, severe arthritis, heart or lung disease, diabetes with complications, and visual impairments. Some states have a specific list; others use broader language like "a disability that substantially limits walking." Your provider will assess whether your condition meets your state's standard.
If your disability is expected to last six months or longer, you receive a permanent permit. If it is temporary — such as recovery from surgery or a broken leg — you can request a temporary permit valid for three to six months. Temporary permits follow the same process process and require the same medical documentation. When your temporary permit expires, you can reapply if your condition has not improved, or you can let it lapse if you no longer need it.
Placard Versus License Plate: What Your State Offers
Most states issue a hanging placard — a card you hang from your rearview mirror when you park in an accessible space. Placards are portable, so you can use them in any vehicle you drive. Some states also issue a special license plate with a wheelchair symbol, which stays on one vehicle. A few states offer both and let you choose; others issue a plate and a placard together.
Placards are easier if you drive different vehicles or ride in someone else's car. License plates are permanent and do not get left behind, but they tie the permit to one vehicle. If you own your car and always drive the same one, a plate works fine. If you borrow vehicles or ride with family, a placard is more practical. Check what your state offers before you submit your form — some states let you indicate your preference on the process.
Submitting Your Form and What Happens Next
Once your form is complete and signed by your medical provider, you submit it to your state DMV. Most states accept mail submissions to a specific DMV office address listed on the form. Some states now accept online submission through their DMV website or a third-party vendor; check your state's instructions to see if that option is available.
Processing time varies. Some states approve permits within one to two weeks; others take three to four weeks. You will receive your placard or plate by mail at the address you provided on the form. If you do not receive it within the timeframe your state publishes, contact the DMV to check the status. Keep your process receipt or confirmation number so you can reference it if you need to follow up.
Once you receive your permit, display it correctly. Placards hang from your rearview mirror and must be visible from outside the vehicle. License plates are mounted on your vehicle like any other plate. Using someone else's permit or displaying an expired permit is illegal in all states and can result in fines and towing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit the form online, or do I have to mail it?
It depends on your state. Many states now offer online submission through their DMV portal or a third-party vendor. Check your state DMV website to see if that option is available. If not, you will need to print the form, have it signed by your medical provider, and mail it to the address listed on the form.
What if my doctor will not sign the form?
Your doctor may decline if they do not believe your condition qualifies or if they are unfamiliar with the form. You can ask them to explain their concern, or you can seek a second opinion from another provider on your state's approved list. Do not forge a signature — the DMV verifies medical provider signatures and will deny your process if the signature is invalid.
How long is a handicap parking permit good for?
Permanent permits are typically valid for four to six years, depending on your state. You will receive a renewal notice before it expires, and you can renew by mail or online in most states. Temporary permits are valid for three to six months and cannot be renewed; you must reapply if you still need one after it expires.
Can I use my permit in other states?
Yes, most states honor handicap parking permits from other states. However, some states have specific rules about out-of-state permits, so it is wise to check the rules of any state you plan to visit for an extended time. Your permit will work in most places, but it is not may provide everywhere.
What if I lose my placard or plate?
Contact your state DMV and request a replacement. Most states charge a small replacement fee, usually $5 to $10. You will need to provide your permit number or driver's license number so the DMV can look up your record and issue a new one. Processing time for a replacement is usually faster than the original process.