California’s disability parking placard program is one of the most accommodating in the country—offering free permanent placards, access to metered parking without fees, and a streamlined renewal process. Whether you’re applying for yourself or helping a family member, here is exactly what the California DMV requires and what you can expect.
Who Qualifies for a California Disability Parking Placard?
California Vehicle Code § 22511.5 specifies who is eligible. You qualify if you meet any of the following criteria:
- You have lost the use of one or more lower extremities, or both hands.
- You have a diagnosed disease that substantially impairs or interferes with your mobility.
- You are unable to move without the aid of an assistive device (such as a wheelchair, cane, crutch, or prosthetic).
- You have specific, documented visual problems, including lower-vision, partial-sightedness, or blindness.
- You suffer from severe lung disease or a cardiovascular condition (Class III or IV by the American Heart Association).
Types of California Disability Parking Placards
| Placard Type | Color | Validity | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent (DP) | Blue | 2 years (Expires June 30 of odd-numbered years) | Free |
| Temporary (DT) | Red | Up to 180 days (6 months) | $6.00 |
| Travel (CA Resident) | Blue | 30 days | Free |
| Travel (Non-Resident) | Red | Up to 90 days | Free |
(Note: Organizations that routinely transport disabled individuals can also apply for green Organization Placards).
How to Apply for a California Handicap Placard: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Complete the REG 195 Form
Download the REG 195 (Application for Disabled Person Placard or Plates) from the California DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) or pick one up at any DMV field office. Ensure your personal information is accurate and matches what the DMV currently has on file.
Step 2: Obtain Medical Certification
An authorized medical provider must complete and sign the Medical Provider’s Certification of Disability section of your application. The DMV strictly regulates who can sign this form. Authorized providers include:
- Licensed physicians or surgeons
- Physician assistants (PA)
- Nurse practitioners (NP)
- Certified nurse midwives
- Licensed chiropractors (only for conditions related to the lower extremities or spine)
- Licensed optometrists or physicians specializing in diseases of the eye (only for visual impairments)
Step 3: Submit the Application
You can submit your completed REG 195 form and medical certification in three ways:
- Online: Using the DMV’s digital Disabled Person Parking Placard application portal.
- In Person: At any California DMV office (appointments are highly recommended).
- By Mail: Mail it to the address listed on the application form. (Remember: If you are applying for a Temporary Red Placard, you must include the $6.00 fee).
How to Renew a California Handicap Placard
- Permanent Placards: Permanent placards are valid for two years and expire on June 30 of every odd-numbered year. Generally, the DMV will automatically mail your renewed placard to the address on file.
- The 6-Year Signature Rule: To prevent fraud, the state now requires permanent placard holders to submit a signature every 6 years (your third renewal cycle) to verify they still require the placard. The DMV will send a renewal notice. You can submit this signature quickly online at dmv.ca.gov, by mail, or in person. No new medical certification is ever required to renew a permanent placard.+3
- Temporary Placards: Temporary placards cannot be renewed more than six consecutive times. To get a new one, you must submit a brand-new REG 195 with a fresh medical certification from your doctor and a new $6.00 fee.
California Handicap Placard Parking Rules
California offers incredibly broad parking privileges for placard holders. Understanding the rules helps you avoid fines and use your placard correctly.
- Where you CAN park:
- In any parking space designated with the wheelchair symbol.
- Next to a blue curb (authorized for persons with disabilities).
- Next to a green curb (for unlimited time limits).
- In an area requiring a resident or merchant permit.
- At any on-street metered parking space for free and with no time limit.
- Where you CANNOT park:
- In spaces marked with a crosshatched pattern (these are access aisles for wheelchair lifts and ramps).
- Next to red curbs (no stopping/parking) or yellow curbs (commercial loading zones).
- Display: Hang the placard from the rearview mirror while parked, and remove it while driving to maintain clear sightlines.
- The ID Card: You will receive a placard identification card with your permit. You must keep this with you at all times when using the placard and present it to law enforcement upon request.
Important Note: While state law guarantees free on-street metered parking, off-street private garages or certain municipal lots may still charge fees. Always check posted signage.
How to Replace a Lost or Stolen California Disability Parking Placard for Free
If your placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a free replacement by submitting an Application for Replacement Plates, Stickers, Documents (REG 156) or a new REG 195 form to the DMV. No additional medical certification is required if you are replacing a permanent placard.+1
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. If you fall into the cycle requiring a signature for your permanent placard renewal, you can easily complete the process online at dmv.ca.gov using your Disabled Person Parking Placard ID Card. You do not need a new medical certification.
Yes. Permanent and travel placards are issued and renewed at absolutely no cost. Temporary placards carry a small $6.00 fee per issuance.
Under California state law, placard holders are allowed to park at any public, on-street metered space without paying fees and without being subjected to the posted time limits.
The required form is the REG 195 (Application for Disabled Person Placard or Plates). It is available at dmv.ca.gov and at all California DMV field offices.
Conclusion:
California’s disability parking placard program is designed to remove barriers, not create them. With a free permanent placard, broad metered parking benefits, and an easy online renewal path, the program rewards eligible applicants who take the time to apply correctly through the DMV.
Add Comment