North Dakota issues mobility-impaired parking permits to residents whose physical conditions make walking difficult or hazardous. Unlike some states, North Dakota uses the term “mobility-impaired parking permit” rather than “handicap placard,” but the function is identical—it grants access to designated accessible parking spaces. Here is everything you need to know to apply, renew, or replace your permit.
Who Qualifies for a North Dakota Mobility-Impaired Parking Permit?
Under North Dakota Century Code (NDCC 39-01-15), you qualify for a mobility-impaired permit if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Have an orthopedic, neurological, or other medical condition that makes it impossible to walk 200 feet without assistance or rest.
- Are restricted by cardiac, pulmonary, or vascular disease from walking 200 feet without rest.
- Have a forced expiratory volume of less than 1 liter for 1 second, or an arterial oxygen tension below 60 mm/hg at rest.
- Have a cardiac condition classified as Class III or IV under American Heart Association standards.
- Must use portable oxygen.
Your condition must be certified by a qualified medical provider. North Dakota recognizes signatures from licensed physicians, physician assistants (PA), chiropractors, and advanced practice registered nurses (APRN).
Types of North Dakota Handicap Permits: Permanent, Temporary, and Disability Plates — With Fees
| Permit Type | Color | Details | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent (Non-Reversible) | Blue | For permanent, irreversible conditions. Valid for 3 years. No new physician certification needed for renewal. | Free |
| Permanent (Reversible) | Blue | For permanent but potentially improvable conditions. Valid for 3 years. Requires a new physician certification upon renewal. | Free |
| Temporary | Red | Issued for temporary conditions. Valid for increments of up to 3 months. Not renewable; must reapply with a new physician certification each time. | $3.00 |
| Disability License Plates | N/A | For vehicle owners with permanent disabilities. | $5.00 |
(Note: North Dakota allows qualifying individuals to request up to two permanent parking permits).
How to Apply for a North Dakota Handicap Placard
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
Download or pick up the Application for Mobility-Impaired Parking Permit (Form SFN 2886) from the NDDOT website (dot.nd.gov) or at any local motor vehicle licensing location.
(Important: Disability permits and plates are not available at Driver’s License divisions—you must visit a Motor Vehicle licensing location).
Step 2: Get Medical Certification
Have your licensed physician, PA, chiropractor, or APRN complete and sign the medical certification section on the back of the form. The provider must confirm that you meet the qualifying criteria and specify whether your condition is temporary, permanent (reversible), or permanent (non-reversible).
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can submit your completed application and any applicable fees in two ways:
- In Person: Drop it off at any North Dakota Motor Vehicle branch. (In-person applications are typically processed much faster).
- By Mail: Send the completed form and fee (do not mail cash) to: Motor Vehicle Division, ND Dept of Transportation, 608 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck ND 58505-0780. Mail processing can take a few weeks.
How to Renew a North Dakota Handicap Placard
- Permanent Permits: Both reversible and non-reversible blue placards expire in December of every third year. The state will mail a renewal notice to your address on file before expiration.
- Non-Reversible: You do not need to contact a physician for renewal—simply complete the renewal form and return it.
- Reversible: You are required to get a new medical certification. Your medical provider must sign a new Form SFN 2886.
- Temporary Permits: Temporary placards are not renewable. If you need parking privileges beyond your initial 3-month period, you must submit a fresh application with a new physician certification and pay the $3.00 fee again.
How to Replace a Lost or Stolen North Dakota Placard
To replace a lost, stolen, or mutilated permit, you must submit a request using Form SFN 2886. Check the “Duplicate” box on the application, state the reason for the replacement, and pay a $3.00 replacement fee. You can mail this request or process it in person at any Motor Vehicle location.
Disability License Plates in North Dakota
If you prefer disability license plates over a hanging placard, your name must be on the vehicle’s title. There is a $5.00 fee for mobility-impaired plates.
- Plates are only available for permanent disabilities, not temporary ones.
- While mobility-impaired plates exempt the need to display a hanging placard in a designated space, the state still requires you to possess at least one valid hanging permit in your name.
Displaying Your North Dakota Permit Correctly
- Hanging the Permit: The permit must be hung from the rearview mirror whenever the vehicle occupies a space reserved for mobility-impaired persons. No part of the permit may be obscured.
- While Driving: You must remove the permit from the mirror while the vehicle is in motion to avoid obstructing your vision.
- Authorized Use: The permit is only valid when the permit holder is the driver or is being transported as a passenger in the vehicle. Improper use by individuals who are not mobility impaired is an infraction carrying a mandatory $100 fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your condition. Permanent non-reversible placard holders do not need a new physician statement. However, if your permit is marked as reversible, a newly signed Form SFN 2886 is required for renewal.
Yes. North Dakota permits are recognized in all 50 U.S. states through reciprocity agreements. When traveling, you are subject to the local parking laws of the state you are visiting.
Yes. North Dakota recognizes placards and plates issued by all other states.
North Dakota does not use a sticker system for disability parking. It only uses hanging placards (temporary and permanent) and specialty license plates.
Conclusion:
Getting started is as simple as speaking with your doctor and picking up Form SFN 2886 from your nearest motor vehicle licensing location. Permanent placards are free and last three years, making them a low-friction solution for residents with long-term mobility needs.
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