How to Replace a Handicap Placard

Handicap placards can be replaced if they are lost, stolen or mutilated.

Handicap placards are the signs that hang from the review mirror in a car of someone who is temporarily disabled. Those who are temporarily disabled could include someone with a broken leg, an eye surgery patient or a pregnant woman. Replacement of handicap placards needs to be done at your local Department of Motor Vehicle office in person. Placards can only be replaced if lost, stolen or mutilated.

Instructions

1. Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Fill out the application for replacement plates, stickers and placards.

2. Surrender your placard if it has been mutilated. Mutilation of the placard means it is not able to be hung, the date portion of the card is missing or the placard does not show the full handicap sign any longer. If your placard has been lost or stolen, you will have to show that you are still eligible to own the handicap placard by getting a note from your doctor or showing paperwork from your last replacement card.

3. Pay the $6 temporary placard fee. If you are applying for a temporary placard for traveling purposes such as going out of town where you will be renting a vehicle, there is no fee.

Tips & Warnings

• Some states require you to mail in your application to the Department of Motor Vehicles headquarters. You will be given temporary placards until your official one comes in the mail approximately two weeks later.

• You do not have to own or be the driver of the vehicle that your handicap placard is in, you just have to be a passenger.

References

• California Department of Motor Vehicles: Disabled Person Parking Placard or Plates FFVR 7