Renewing a Disabled Placard/License Plate

By: Staff Writer July 19, 2012
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How long your handicap plate (permanent) or placard (temporary) is valid depends on your state and your disability. Handicapped placards and plates are required for parking in Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant disabled parking spots. Read on for info on renewing your handicap parking permit.

Renew Temporary Handicapped Placard

In most states, you'll find temporary handicap parking permit placards are valid for:

  • Six months. 
  • OR
  • The date noted by your certified medical expert on your placard application for when your temporary disability would be healed or cured.

Depending on your state you may receive an expiration notice. If you're still not healed when the placard expires, contact your local motor vehicle agency for renewal information. In most instances, you'll be required to complete a handicap placard renewal application that might require medical recertification to keep your access to ADA parking spots.

Remember, each state is different. Instead of renewing your Florida disabled parking permit, for example, you must reapply for a new handicapped placard.

The number of times you may renew, if offered, depends on your state. California, for instance, allows six temporary placard renewals, while Missouri limits it to one.

Renew Permanent Handicapped License Plate

Most states treat permanent disabled license plates like regular plates when it comes time to renew. This means you'll receive a renewal notice in the mail, requiring you to renew your handicapped plates in the same manner as regular plates. The renewal notice will explain how to renew. Depending on your state you may be able to renew online, in person, or by phone, e-mail, or mail.

No medical recertification is required for permanent plates provided you renew on time. If you allow your plates to remain expired for an extended period, you may be asked to reapply, requiring medical recertification. In Washington, for example, permanent plates cannot be renewed after 31 days.

If you have any questions, visit our page for drivers with disabilities or contact your local DMV office.

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