In Arkansas, a handicap tag — formally called a disabled person’s placard — grants qualifying residents legal access to designated accessible parking spaces. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) Office of Motor Vehicle (OMV) manages the program, and the process is accessible to most qualifying residents. This guide covers eligibility, the application form, the renewal process, and practical tips for using your permit correctly.
Arkansas Handicap Placard Eligibility Under Arkansas Code § 27-15-302
Under Arkansas Code § 27-15-302, an applicant qualifies for a disabled person’s parking placard or license plate if an authorized healthcare provider certifies that they have one or more of the following conditions:
- Inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest.
- Inability to walk without the use of a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, or wheelchair.
- Severely limited walking ability due to arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic conditions.
- Lung disease in which forced expiratory volume is less than 1 liter per second or arterial oxygen tension is below 60 mm/hg on room air.
- Class III or IV cardiac condition per the American Heart Association classification system.
- Use of portable oxygen.
- Legal blindness.
Who Can Certify? Your application can be certified by a Licensed Physician, Physician’s Assistant, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), or a Physical Therapist licensed in Arkansas (or your home state, if visiting from out-of-state).
Types of Arkansas Handicap Placards and Plates
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Permanent Placard | For permanent disabilities. Valid for 4 years. |
| Temporary Placard | For temporary conditions (e.g., surgery recovery). Valid up to 3 months. (Note: You can only receive a maximum of two temporary placards). |
| Disabled Veteran Plate | For qualifying veterans; vehicle-specific. |
| Disability License Plate | Vehicle-specific alternative to a hanging placard. |
HIGHLIGHT: Watch Out for Parking Meters!
If you are used to the handicap parking rules in other states, be aware of a critical difference in Arkansas: There is no statewide exemption for parking meters. Arkansas state law (Code § 27-15-312) gives individual cities and counties the authority to decide whether placard holders must pay meter fees. Always check local city ordinances or look for specific signage on the meter before assuming you can park for free.
How to Apply for an Arkansas Handicap Placard (Form 10-336)
Step 1: Download the Application Form Download the Licensed Physician’s Certification (Form 10-336) from the Arkansas DFA website (dfa.arkansas.gov). You can also pick up a physical copy at any Arkansas Revenue Office.
Step 2: Medical Certification by a Licensed Provider Take the form to your certifying healthcare provider. They must complete the medical section, which includes their medical license number, the specific qualifying diagnosis, whether the disability is permanent or temporary, and their signature. The DFA will reject the application without this completed section.
Step 3: Complete Your Section of the Application When you go to submit the form, you must provide your Social Security Number, Arkansas driver’s license, or state-issued ID card number. (State and federal laws require the department to hold social security numbers and medical conditions in strict confidence).
Step 4: Submit the Application and Pay Fees Arkansas issues both permanent and temporary handicap placards completely free of charge. (If you choose a disability license plate instead of a placard, standard vehicle registration fees apply).
- In person: Visit your nearest Arkansas Revenue Office (county-level location). You will typically be issued a placard on the spot.
- By mail: Send the completed form to: Department of Finance and Administration, Special License Unit, P.O. Box 1272, Little Rock, AR 72203.
How to Renew Your Arkansas Handicap Placard Online
Arkansas has made renewing a permanent handicap placard incredibly easy. When your 4-year placard is set to expire, you do not need a new doctor’s certification to renew it. You simply submit your renewal paperwork to any Arkansas Motor Vehicle office to receive your updated placard.
Note: Temporary placards cannot simply be renewed. If your temporary condition persists past the 3-month expiration date, you must apply for a completely new temporary permit with a new medical certification from your doctor.
Arkansas Handicap Tag Rules and Penalties for Misuse
An Arkansas handicap placard is issued to the individual, not a specific vehicle. Important usage rules include:
- Hang the placard from the rearview mirror when parked in a designated accessible space; remove it while the vehicle is in motion so it does not block your vision.
- You must be present in the vehicle whenever your placard is in use. Do not loan your placard to family or friends when you are not traveling with them.
- Arkansas Code § 27-15-309 makes it illegal to fraudulently obtain, display, or use a disabled person’s placard. Violations can result in fines and permit revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. All U.S. states recognize disabled person parking placards issued by other states under federal reciprocity laws. Your Arkansas placard is valid wherever you travel in the country.
Arkansas accepts medical certifications from physicians licensed in any U.S. state, as long as the certifying provider includes their medical license number and state of licensure on the form.
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Arkansas handicap placard, simply visit your nearest Arkansas Revenue Office with a valid photo ID. There is no fee for permanent or temporary replacement placards.
Conclusion
Getting an Arkansas handicap tag is a straightforward, fee-free process: download Form 10-336, have your healthcare provider complete the medical certification, and submit it to your local Revenue Office in person or by mail. Because Arkansas allows permanent placard holders to bypass the doctor’s office for future renewals, getting your initial application right is the only major hurdle. Remember to watch out for local parking meters, use your placard responsibly, and enjoy the independence it provides!
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