If you have a mobility-limiting disability, a North Carolina disability parking placard gives you legal access to designated accessible parking spaces and increased independence throughout the state. Issued by the NC Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV), these placards are available for both permanent and temporary conditions. This guide details everything you need to know to apply, renew, or replace your permit in the Tar Heel State.
Who Qualifies for a North Carolina Handicap Placard?
Under North Carolina General Statute 20-37.5, you qualify for a disability placard if a licensed medical provider certifies that you meet one or more of the following conditions:
- Cannot walk 200 feet without stopping to rest.
- Cannot walk without the use of an assistive device (cane, crutch, brace, prosthetic device, or wheelchair).
- Have a Class III or IV cardiac condition per American Heart Association standards.
- Are severely restricted by lung disease (forced expiratory volume less than 1 liter per second or arterial oxygen tension below 60 mm/hg on room air at rest).
- Require the use of portable oxygen.
- Are severely limited in walking due to arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic conditions.
- Are blind or have defective vision preventing essential activities requiring sight.
Who Can Certify? Your condition must be certified by a licensed Physician, Physician Assistant (PA), Nurse Practitioner (NP), Ophthalmologist, Optometrist, or an authorized representative of the Division of Services for the Blind. (Note for Temporary Placards: A licensed Certified Nurse Midwife may also certify a first-time temporary placard).+1
Types of Disability Parking Permits in NC
You may apply for up to two (2) placards at a time.
| Permit Type | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent Placard | For permanent disabilities. Valid for 5 years. | $5.00 (per placard) |
| Temporary Placard | For temporary conditions. Valid for 1 to 6 months. | $5.00 (per placard) |
| Disability License Plate | Permanently affixed to a specific vehicle. (Renewed annually). | $36.00 |
| Disabled Veteran Plate | For veterans with a VA-certified disability. | $10.00 (Some qualifying veterans may receive one plate for free) |
Time Limits vs. Parking Meters
North Carolina law (G.S. 20-37.6) grants placard holders a massive parking perk, but it comes with a catch that often traps out-of-state drivers!
If you park in a space with a restricted time limit (such as a “1-Hour Only” zone), your placard legally allows you to park there for an unlimited amount of time. However, North Carolina does not have a statewide exemption for parking meters. You must still pay the parking meter unless the specific city you are in (such as downtown Raleigh) has passed a local ordinance allowing free metered parking for disabled drivers. Always check local signs!
How to Apply for a North Carolina Handicap Placard: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Download the Correct Form Download Form MVR-37A (Medical Certification for Application and Renewal of Disability Parking Placard) from the NCDMV website (ncdot.gov/dmv) or pick one up at any license plate agency. (If you prefer a disability license plate instead of a placard, use Form MVR-37 instead).+1
Step 2: Complete Your Section & Get Medical Certification Fill out your personal information section. Then, have your authorized medical provider complete and sign the medical certification section.
Step 3: Submit Your Application Submit your completed form, your $5.00 fee (per placard), and proof of identity (NC driver’s license, state ID, or birth certificate and Social Security card) in one of two ways:
- In Person: Visit your local NC DMV license plate agency. They offer same-day service, and you will usually walk out with your placard.
- By Mail: Send your form and a check/money order made payable to NCDMV to: NC Division of Motor Vehicles, 3148 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-3148. (Allow several weeks for processing).
Special Rules for Disabled Veterans
North Carolina offers dedicated options for veterans with service-connected disabilities. If you have a disability determination from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, you can completely bypass the medical certification from a doctor.
Simply submit your VA documentation alongside Form MVR-37A to receive your placard. If you want a dedicated Veteran License Plate instead, use Form MVR-33A (Application for Military and Veteran License Plates) along with your DD-214 and VA Rating Letter.
How To Renew North Carolina Handicap Placard
Permanent placards must be renewed every 5 years. Standard permanent placard holders will receive a renewal application in the mail and must go back to their doctor to get a new medical certification. However, North Carolina offers two massive shortcuts:
- Total and Permanent Disability: If your doctor initially checks the “Total and Permanent Disability” box on your form, you never have to go back to the doctor for a new signature. You can simply renew your placard online through the myNCDMV portal when it expires.
- The Age 80 Exemption: If you are 80 years of age or older and already have a disability on file with the NCDMV, you are legally exempt from needing a doctor’s medical recertification to renew your placard!
(Note: Temporary placards cannot be renewed. If your temporary condition persists past 6 months, you must submit a brand new Form MVR-37A with a fresh doctor’s certification).+1
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. North Carolina disability placards and license plates are recognized in all U.S. states under federal ADA regulations.
Yes. Many individuals opt for both — the license plate stays with the vehicle, while the placard can be moved to other vehicles when you are riding with family or friends.
If your placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to submit a new Form MVR-37A with a fresh medical certification to your nearest NC DMV license plate agency, along with a $5.00 replacement fee.
Conclusion
Getting a North Carolina disability parking placard involves downloading Form MVR-37A, having it certified by an authorized medical provider, and submitting it to your local license plate agency. With permanent placards valid for five years and the ability to ignore strict parking time limits, it’s one of the most practical steps a person with a mobility challenge can take. Remember to utilize the myNCDMV online portal for renewals, and always double-check local parking meter rules before walking away from your car!
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