Managing mobility challenges requires efficient solutions, and in Connecticut, the Department of Motor Vehicles has modernized the process for obtaining accessibility placards. Whether you are recovering from surgery or managing a lifelong condition, securing a handicap parking permit in CT is now a digital-first experience designed to minimize your time spent at a physical office.
This guide outlines the current 2026 eligibility rules, the specific forms you need your doctor to sign, and the fastest way to get your permit delivered to your door.
Eligibility and Permit Types (Temporary vs. Permanent Placards)
Connecticut classifies accessibility permits into two categories based on the expected duration of the mobility impairment. Both require a certification from a licensed medical professional (Physician, PA, APRN, or Optometrist).
| Permit Type | Validity Period | Fee | Best For |
| Temporary Placard | Up to 6 Months | $5.00 | Post-surgery recovery, temporary injury, or pregnancy complications. |
| Renewable (Permanent) | Up to 8 Years | Free | Long-term conditions, legal blindness, or chronic mobility limitations. |
Qualifying Medical Conditions and Veteran Exemptions
To qualify, a medical professional must certify that you meet at least one of the following:
- Inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest.
- Requirement of portable oxygen or severe lung disease.
- Class III or IV cardiac condition.
- Legal blindness or severe orthopedic/neurological limitations.
- Veteran Status: Veterans with a 100% disability rating or those with specific service-connected PTSD affecting mobility may qualify for specialized exemptions.
The 2026 Application Process: Online is Fastest
The CT DMV has shifted most accessibility services to their “Customer Online Services” portal. While you can still mail in your forms, the online route significantly reduces processing time.
Step 1: Secure Medical Certification (Forms B-225P and B-225T)
Before logging on, you must have your healthcare provider complete the correct form. These are the “golden tickets” of your application:
- For Permanent/Renewable: Use Form B-225P.
- For Temporary: Use Form B-225T.
Step 2: Choose Your Submission Method (Online, Mail, or In-Person Appointment)
- Online (Recommended): Visit the CT DMV Online Portal. You will need your CT Driver’s License or ID number. If you have recently moved, ensure you have completed a Connecticut DMV change of address first to ensure the permit is mailed to the correct location.
- By Mail: Send your completed and signed form to:DMV, Customer Service – Accessible Parking Permit 60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161
- In-Person: If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you must schedule a DMV CT appointment in Connecticut before visiting.
Renewals, Expirations, and Strict Rules for Usage
One of the most frequent points of confusion for CT residents is the renewal cycle.
- Temporary Permits: These cannot be renewed. If you still need accessibility parking after six months, you must submit an entirely new application with updated medical certification.
- Renewable Permits: These are tied to your license or ID expiration cycle (usually 8 years). The DMV will mail a renewal notice approximately 45 days before the expiration. You can renew up to 6 months prior to the date on the placard.
Strict Rules for Usage and Misuse
Possessing a placard is a legal privilege that comes with strict enforcement. In Connecticut, the placard belongs to the person, not the vehicle.
- Presence Required: The permit holder must be in the vehicle (either as the driver or passenger) when the car is parked in a reserved space.
- Display: The placard must hang from the rearview mirror while parked but must be removed while the vehicle is in motion.
- Fines: Misuse carries heavy penalties. First-time offenses typically result in a $131 fine, while subsequent offenses can escalate to over $260 and potential permit revocation.
FAQ’s
Yes. Most states recognize out-of-state accessibility placards. However, local parking rules (such as whether you have to pay at a meter) vary by city and state, so always check local signage.
You can request a replacement online or by mail using the same B-225 forms. If your current permit is still valid, you only need to complete “Part A” (personal information) and do not need a new medical signature.
Yes, but “permanent” refers to the condition, not the physical card. The placard must be renewed every 8 years to remain valid in the state’s system.
Conclusion
Securing a handicap parking permit in Connecticut is a straightforward process once you have the correct medical certification in hand. By utilizing the DMV’s online portal, you can avoid unnecessary trips to a branch office and receive your placard directly in the mail. The most important next step is to schedule an evaluation with your physician to have Form B-225P or B-225T signed. Once that is done, the digital application takes less than ten minutes to complete, ensuring you have the access you need to navigate the state safely and comfortably.
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