How to Get a Handicap Placard in Kansas

For residents of the Sunflower State living with mobility challenges, a Kansas handicap placard is an essential tool for maintaining independence and accessibility. These permits grant legal access to designated parking spaces closer to building entrances, significantly reducing the physical strain of daily errands. Understanding the specific requirements set by the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) is the first step toward securing the parking privileges you need. Navigating the application process is quit easy once you have the correct documentation.

Who Qualifies for a Handicap Placard in Kansas?

Eligibility for a handicap placard in Kansas is strictly defined by state law to ensure these spots remain available for those who truly need them. A person with a disability is generally defined as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits their ability to walk. Specifically, medical professionals look for conditions that prevent a person from walking 100 feet without stopping to rest or aggravating a medical condition. Other qualifying factors include the use of portable oxygen, severe lung disease, or Class III or IV cardiac conditions as defined by the American Heart Association.

Qualifying Condition Category	Specific Medical Criteria
Mobility Limitations	Inability to walk 100 feet without rest; severe limitations due to arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic conditions.
Respiratory Health	Lung disease with a forced expiratory volume (FEV1) of less than one liter, or oxygen saturation below 90%.
Cardiac Health	Functional limitations classified as Class III or Class IV by the American Heart Association standards.
Visual Impairment	Legal blindness or severe visual limitations that impact safe navigation.

Types of Handicap Parking Permits Available in Kansas

The state offers different types of permits based on the duration of the disability. Permanent placards are issued to individuals with long-term mobility issues and are typically valid for five years. For those recovering from surgery or a temporary injury, a temporary placard can be issued for a maximum of six months. If you own a vehicle and have a permanent disability, you may also opt for disabled license plates. The disabled plate provides the same parking benefits as a placard without the need to hang anything from your rearview mirror.

How to Apply for a Kansas Handicap Placard

Securing your placard requires a mix of medical certification and administrative filing. You cannot simply request a permit; a licensed “Healing Arts” professional must verify your condition. This includes physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, chiropractors, podiatrists, or optometrists.

Step 1 – Get Form TR-159: This is the official “Certification of Disability for Disabled Parking Placard/Plate/Decal.” You can download it from the KDOR website or pick one up at your local county treasurer’s office.

Step 2 – Medical Certification by a Licensed Provider: Take the form to your healthcare provider. They must complete the medical section, detailing the nature of your disability and whether it is permanent or temporary.

Step 3 – Submit Your Application: Once signed, you must submit the form to your local county treasurer’s office (also known as the tag office). While many people prefer to handle this while they schedule a DMV Kansas appointment for other services, you can often mail or fax the form depending on your county’s specific policies.

If you have recently moved, ensure you complete a Kansas driver’s license address change before or during your application to ensure your records are up to date.

How to Renew a Permanent Handicap Placard

Permanent placards in Kansas are valid for five years and require renewal to remain active. The process is designed to be straightforward for individuals with established permanent disabilities:

1. Receive Renewal Notice: The Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) typically sends a renewal notice to the placard holder a few weeks or months before the expiration date.
2. Self-Certify: For permanent placards, a new medical certification from a healthcare professional is generally not required for renewal, provided your permanent disability status is already on file with the KDOR. Instead, you will usually be asked to complete a self-certification form, affirming that your qualifying condition still exists.
3. Submit Renewal: Follow the instructions on the renewal notice to submit the completed self-certification form. This can often be done by mail or in person at your local county treasurer’s office.

This streamlined process ensures that individuals with permanent disabilities can continue to access necessary parking privileges without repeated medical evaluations.

How to Renewal Temporary Placard and Replacements

Temporary placards are issued for a maximum of six months and are generally not renewable. If your temporary condition persists beyond this period and you still require a placard, you will need to reapply for a new temporary placard. This requires a fresh medical certification from a licensed Healing Arts professional, just like the initial application.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Kansas Placard

Replacement of Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Placards:

If your permanent or temporary placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a replacement. This typically involves:

1. Obtain Form TR-159: Secure a new “Certification of Disability for Disabled Parking Placard/Plate/Decal” (Form TR-159).
2. Indicate Replacement: Clearly mark on the form that you are requesting a replacement placard.
3. Submit Form: Submit the completed form to your local county treasurer’s office. A new medical certification may not be required if your disability status is already on file for a permanent placard, but it’s always best to confirm with your local office.

It is crucial to keep your permit in good condition and ensure it is clearly visible when displayed, as a faded or unreadable placard could lead to unnecessary parking citations and potential fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Obtaining a Kansas handicap placard is a vital step in ensuring your mobility needs are met. By following the proper certification steps and keeping your permit updated, you can navigate the state with greater ease and less physical stress. If you are managing other vehicle-related tasks, such as obtaining a temporary tag in Kansas or checking your Kansas driving record online, handling your handicap permit application at the same time can save you multiple trips to the tag office. Staying organized with your documentation ensures that your focus remains on your health and mobility rather than administrative hurdles.