Renewing a Disabled Placard/License Plate

How long  your handicapped plate (permanent) or placard (temporary) is valid depends on your state and your disability. Read on for info on being allowed to renew.

Renew Temporary Disabled Placard

In most states, you’ll find temporary handicap 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.

Remember, each state is different. Instead of renewing in Maryland, for example, you must reapply for a new disabilities 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 renewal. 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.