Vermont residents who qualify for disability-related parking accommodations can obtain an accessible parking placard through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Whether your condition is permanent or temporary, the process is designed to be simple and entirely free of charge. This guide explains who qualifies, what specific forms you need, and exactly how to apply.
Who Qualifies for a Vermont Handicap Placard?
To qualify for a VT handicap placard, a licensed healthcare provider (such as a physician, certified physician assistant, or licensed advanced practice registered nurse) must certify that the applicant has a qualifying disability. Eligible conditions include:
- Inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest.
- Cannot walk without the use of, or assistance from, a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, or wheelchair.
- Severe limitation of walking ability due to arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic conditions.
- Lung disease that significantly impairs respiratory function (FEV for one second is less than one liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than 60 mm/hg).
- Class III or IV cardiac condition per American Heart Association standards.
- Legal blindness (visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye with corrective lenses).
- Use of portable oxygen.
The Statewide Parking Meter & Time Limit Exemption: A massive benefit of holding a Vermont accessible parking placard is the statewide meter and time-limit exemption. Under Vermont law, anyone displaying a valid placard may park without a fee for an unlimited period in a parking zone that is otherwise restricted by time limits or parking meters.
(Note: This privilege does not apply to zones where stopping or parking is strictly prohibited for all vehicles, such as fire lanes, loading zones, or during winter parking bans).
Types of Vermont Handicap Permits and Disability Plates
| Permit Type | Validity |
|---|---|
| Permanent Placard | Valid for 4 years. |
| Temporary Placard | Valid for up to 6 months based on the physician’s recommendation. |
| Disability License Plate | Vehicle-specific alternative to a placard (issued at standard registration fees). |
Vermont Handicap Placard Application: Step-by-Step (Form VD-120, VL-038, VS-113)
Step 1: Obtain the Application Forms Vermont separates its applications into a few specific documents. You can download these from the Vermont DMV website (dmv.vermont.gov), or request them at any DMV office:
- Form VD-120: Disabled Parking Placard Application (For Permanent conditions).
- Form VL-038: Temporary Disabled Parking Placard Application (For Temporary conditions).
- Form VS-113: Universal Medical Evaluation/Progress Report.
Step 2: Medical Certification Take Form VS-113 to your healthcare provider. They must complete the medical portion, providing their license number, contact information, and the specific qualifying condition. They must also indicate whether the disability is permanent or temporary.
Step 3: Complete the Applicant Section Complete either Form VD-120 or VL-038 with your personal information: name, Vermont driver’s license or ID number, date of birth, and mailing address. If applying on behalf of a minor or dependent, include the dependent’s information along with your own as the authorized representative.
Step 4: Submit the Application There is no fee for a standard Vermont handicap placard.
- In person: Visit any Vermont DMV office.
- By mail: Mail your completed application and medical evaluation form to: Vermont DMV, 120 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05603-0001.
How to Renew Your Vermont Handicap Placard
The “Permanent & Stable” Renewal Loophole: Permanent Vermont handicap placards expire every 4 years, and you must initiate the renewal process to get a new one. However, Vermont offers a major shortcut: If your doctor previously checked the box on your Form VS-113 stating that your condition is both “permanent and stable,” you do not need a new medical certification to renew. You simply submit a new Form VD-120 to the DMV to request your updated placard.
If your condition is temporary, the placard expires after a maximum of 6 months and cannot simply be renewed. If your temporary condition persists, you must apply for a new placard with fresh medical documentation.
Vermont Handicap Parking Permit Rules and Legal Requirements
A handicap parking permit is personal to the holder. Key rules include:
- You may use the placard in any vehicle you are traveling in, whether you are the passenger or the driver.
- The placard must hang from the rearview mirror when parked; you must remove it while driving to avoid obstructing your vision.
- You must be present in the vehicle when the placard is in use. Allowing another person to use your placard when you are not present is illegal.
- Misuse of a placard is subject to civil penalties of at least $200 per violation, towing charges, and potential revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Currently, Vermont requires new applications to be submitted in person or by mail because the original signed medical certification (Form VS-113) must be processed by the DMV.
Yes. Vermont recognizes all valid accessible parking permits issued by other U.S. states, territories, and eligible foreign jurisdictions under federal law.
If your condition improves and you no longer need the placard, you should return it to the Vermont DMV. If your condition worsens or becomes permanent after receiving a temporary placard, you must apply for a permanent placard with updated medical documentation.
If your placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, simply submit a new Form VD-120 to the Vermont DMV to request a replacement. You do not need a new medical certification from your doctor just to replace a lost, active placard.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Vermont handicap placard is a free, structured process that begins with a qualifying medical condition and a completed Form TA-VA-3. Whether you’re applying for yourself or a family member, the Vermont DMV makes it possible to submit by mail or in person. If you qualify, this permit gives you legal access to closer parking spaces across Vermont and every other state in the country. Start with your healthcare provider, complete the form, and submit — the entire process can often be completed within a single week.
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