If you or a loved one has a mobility challenge, navigating the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” shouldn’t be harder than it already is. In Minnesota, a disability parking certificate (commonly called a handicap placard) is more than just a piece of plastic—it is a legal permit that ensures you can access businesses, medical appointments, and government offices without the physical strain of long-distance walking.
However, getting one isn’t as simple as walking into a DMV. You need a specific medical certification, and you must choose the right type of permit to avoid unnecessary fees. This guide explains the eligibility rules, the application process, and how to use your placard legally to avoid the state’s steep misuse fines.
Who Qualifies for a Minnesota Handicap Placard?
Minnesota law is very specific about who can receive a disability certificate. It isn’t just for those who use wheelchairs; it covers a range of “invisible” conditions as well. According to the Minnesota Council on Disability, you qualify if a health professional certifies that you:
- Cannot walk 200 feet without stopping to rest or without it being life-threatening.
- Use portable oxygen or have a respiratory disease that significantly limits your breathing.
- Have a cardiac condition classified as Class III or IV by the American Heart Association.
- Cannot walk without a significant risk of falling or without the aid of a brace, cane, crutch, or another person.
- Have lost an arm or leg and do not have (or cannot use) an artificial limb.
Types of Minnesota Disability Parking Certificates
Not all placards are created equal. Depending on whether your condition is temporary (like a broken leg) or permanent, you will be issued one of four types.
Pro Tip: If your condition is expected to last more than a year, always aim for the Long-Term or Permanent versions to avoid the $5 fee.
| Certificate Type | Duration | Fee | Best For |
| Temporary | 1 to 6 Months | $5.00 | Post-surgery recovery or short-term injury. |
| Short-Term | 7 to 12 Months | $5.00 | Extended recovery or temporary illness. |
| Long-Term | 13 to 71 Months | No Fee | Chronic conditions that may eventually improve. |
| Permanent | 6 Years | No Fee | Permanent disabilities; requires renewal every 6 years. |
How to Apply for a Minnesota Handicap Placard
The application process in Minnesota is strictly paper-based because it requires a physical signature from a medical professional. You cannot complete the entire process online.
- Download the Form: Get the Application for Disability Parking Certificate (Form PS2005).
- The Applicant Section (Page 1): You must fill this out yourself. If you are a new resident and haven’t updated your ID yet, you can still apply, but make sure to check our guide on Minnesota change of address to ensure your records match.
- The Medical Section (Page 2): This must be completed by a licensed physician, chiropractor, advanced practice registered nurse, physician assistant, or physical therapist.
- Submission: You can mail the form to the DVS in St. Paul or bring it to any Deputy Registrar (License Center).
The “90-Day” Shortcut: If you are in a hurry, do not mail the form. If you walk into a License Center and pay the fee (if applicable), they can often issue you a 90-day temporary permit on the spot while your official placard is processed and mailed to you. If you need to find the nearest office, see our guide on Minnesota DMV appointments to see which locations require a booking.
Rules for Using a Minnesota Handicap Placard
Possessing a placard is a privilege that comes with strict enforcement. In Minnesota, disability parking abuse is a misdemeanor that can lead to the revocation of your permit.
- The Placard Follows the Person: The permit is issued to you, not your car. You can move it between vehicles (even if you are just a passenger), but you cannot let a friend or family member use it if you are not in the car.
- Displaying the Permit: You must hang the placard from the rearview mirror only when parked. It is actually illegal to drive with it hanging, as it obstructs your view.
- Metered Parking: In many Minnesota cities, like Minneapolis and St. Paul, vehicles with disability plates or placards may park for free at certain meters or for longer durations than posted. However, always check the local ordinances, as some “event zones” or “snow emergencies” may override these privileges.
- Buying a New Car: If you just bought a vehicle and are waiting for your permanent plates, you can still use your placard with your Minnesota temporary license plates. The placard’s validity is tied to your medical status, not the vehicle’s registration status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, the state issues one placard per person. However, if you do not have disability license plates, you may request a second placard if you can demonstrate a need (e.g., you frequently switch between two different vehicles you own).
No. Applying for a disability parking certificate does not trigger a re-examination of your driving skills. However, if your medical condition is so severe that it affects your ability to safely operate a vehicle, you should consult our guide on Minnesota driver’s record lookup to understand how medical flags are handled by the DVS.
Yes. Minnesota recognizes all valid disability placards from other U.S. states and Canadian provinces. You do not need to apply for a Minnesota-specific one if you are just visiting.
Conclusion
A Minnesota handicap placard is a vital tool for maintaining independence and accessibility. By choosing the right certificate type—especially the fee-free Long-Term or Permanent options—and ensuring your medical professional completes the certification correctly, you can avoid the common pitfalls of the DVS application process. If you are also dealing with other license issues, such as a recent suspension, be sure to read our walkthrough on Minnesota driving license reinstatement to get your full driving privileges back on track.
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