If a mobility-limiting condition makes walking difficult or unsafe, a Nebraska handicap placard grants you access to designated accessible parking spaces—reducing the distance between your vehicle and your destination. This guide walks you through Nebraska’s eligibility requirements, the application process, renewal steps, and what to do if your placard is lost or stolen.
Who Qualifies for a Nebraska Handicap Placard?
To be eligible for a disability parking permit in Nebraska, a licensed medical professional (physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse) must certify that you have a qualifying condition. Nebraska law recognizes the following:
- Severe visual, physical, or neurological impairment that limits personal mobility.
- Inability to travel more than 200 feet without stopping to rest, or without the use of a wheelchair, crutch, walker, prosthetic, or other assistive device.
- Severe respiratory problems that limit personal mobility.
- A cardiac condition classified as Class III or Class IV by the American Heart Association.
- Permanent loss of all, or substantially all, the use of one or more limbs.
Types of Handicap Placards Available in Nebraska
| Permit Type | Color | Details | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent Placard | Blue | Issued for permanent medical conditions. Valid for 6 years, expiring on the last day of the permit holder’s birth month in the 6th year. | Free |
| Temporary Placard | Red | Issued for conditions expected to resolve within 1 year. Valid for 3 or 6 months (as determined by your doctor). | Free |
| Disability License Plates | N/A | Available for vehicles titled and registered in your name. Permanent disabilities only. | Standard vehicle registration fees apply |
(Note: Nebraska allows qualifying individuals to hold up to two permanent placards).
How to Apply for a Nebraska Handicap Placard: Two Ways to Get Your Permit
Option A: Online Application Through Your Doctor (Fastest)
Nebraska offers a highly convenient online pathway. If your healthcare provider is licensed in Nebraska, they can submit your medical certification and application directly through the Nebraska DMV’s secure online system. Once your provider submits the request, the DMV processes it, and your permit is mailed directly to you. This is by far the fastest route for most applicants.
Option B: Paper Application by Mail
If your provider is not licensed in Nebraska (or prefers not to use the online portal), you can apply by mail.
- Download the Form: Get the Application for Handicapped Parking Permit from the Nebraska DMV website (or pick one up locally).
- Medical Certification: Have your doctor fill out and sign the Medical Certificate portion of the form.
- Proof of Identity: Make a photocopy of an acceptable proof of identity. This can be a valid driver’s license, state ID, certified birth certificate, or passport.
- Mail It In: Mail the completed application and your photocopy of ID to: Nebraska Department of Motor VehiclesDriver and Vehicle Records Division Attn: Handicapped Parking Permits PO Box 94789 Lincoln, NE 68509-4789
How to Renew a Nebraska Handicap Placard
- Permanent Placards: Must be renewed every 6 years. Medical certification is required again for renewals. You must submit a new application (either online through your doctor or by mail) following the exact same procedure as your initial application. Applications can be submitted up to 180 days before your permit’s expiration date.
- Temporary Placards: Temporary placards can only be renewed one time for an additional 6 months. This also requires a new medical certification. Renewal applications can be submitted up to 30 days before expiration.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Nebraska Placard
If your placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement without needing a new medical certification. Nebraska allows up to two replacements per person before a new doctor’s certification is required.
- Online: When you receive your placard, it comes with a Permit ID Card containing a Personal Identification Number (PIN). You can use this PIN at clickdmv.ne.gov to quickly request a replacement permit or a second permit online.
- By Mail: Complete the top portion of the Application for Handicapped Parking Permit, check the “Replacement” box, and mail it to the DMV along with a photocopy of your ID.
How to Display Your Nebraska Handicap Placard
Your Nebraska disability placard must be hung from the rearview mirror when parked in a designated accessible space. If your vehicle has no rearview mirror, display it clearly on the dashboard. The placard must be removed while the vehicle is in motion.
It is only valid when the authorized holder is physically present and entering or exiting the vehicle. It cannot be used by a friend or family member to run an errand on your behalf if you are not with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Disability parking placards in Nebraska are completely free. There is no fee for new applications, renewals, or replacements. (Disability license plates, however, carry standard vehicle registration taxes and fees).
Yes. All 50 states have reciprocity agreements and recognize Nebraska placards. Keep in mind that you are subject to the local parking laws of whatever state you visit.
Your out-of-state provider can still complete the paper application form with their certification. You must then submit it by mail with a copy of your ID to the Nebraska DMV in Lincoln.
If you are visiting Nebraska, you do not need to apply for a local permit. You may use your valid home-state placard or plates to park in Nebraska’s accessible spaces.
Conclusion:
Nebraska’s application process is among the more flexible in the country, offering both an online pathway through your doctor and a paper mail-in option. Start by speaking with your healthcare provider about your condition — they can determine which permit type is appropriate and initiate the process on your behalf through the DMV’s online system or by completing the paper form.
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