Where to request a replacement placard

You request a replacement handicap placard from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the equivalent agency that issued your original placard. Most states handle this through the same office where you got the first one — usually the DMV's disability services or special plates division. Some states let you request a replacement online through their DMV website; others require you to visit in person or mail in a form.

The fastest way to find out which method your state uses is to go directly to your state DMV's website and search for "replacement handicap placard" or "disabled parking permit replacement". The site will tell you whether you can do it online, by mail, or only in person. If the website is unclear, call your local DMV office and ask specifically: "I lost my handicap placard. Do I mail in a form, go online, or come in person?"

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state DMV — the same agency that issued your original placard — to request a replacement.
  • Most states charge a replacement fee, which ranges from $5 to $25 depending on where you live.
  • You will need your driver's license or state ID and proof that your placard was lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • Replacement placards usually arrive within two to four weeks by mail, though some states offer in-person pickup the same day.
  • If your placard was stolen, some states require a police report number or a signed statement that it was taken.

What documents and information you need to bring or submit

Have your driver's license or state ID ready — the DMV needs to verify your identity and confirm you are the person the original placard was issued to. You will also need the placard number from your original placard if you have it, though not all states require this. If you do not have the number, the DMV can look it up using your driver's license number.

If your placard was stolen, many states ask for a police report number or a written statement signed by you saying the placard was taken. If it was damaged or lost, you may need to describe what happened. Some states do not require proof at all — they straightforward issue a replacement when you request one. Check your state DMV website or call ahead to confirm what your state needs before you go in or submit a form.

Replacement fees and how to pay

Most states charge a fee for a replacement placard. The amount varies by state: some charge $5, others charge $10, $15, or $25. A few states do not charge for the first replacement but charge for a second one. Some states waive the fee if your placard was stolen and you provide a police report.

Payment methods depend on how you request the replacement. If you explore online, you typically pay by credit or debit card. If you mail in a form, you may need to include a check or money order. If you go in person to the DMV, you can usually pay by cash, check, or card. Your state DMV website will show the exact fee and accepted payment methods for your state.

How long it takes to receive your replacement

If you request a replacement by mail, expect to wait two to four weeks for it to arrive. Some states take longer during busy periods. If you explore online, the timeline is usually the same — two to four weeks by mail — unless your state offers expedited processing for an extra fee.

A few states let you pick up a replacement placard in person at the DMV office on the same day you request it, but this is not common. Call your local DMV or check the website to see if same-day pickup is an option in your state. If you need a placard urgently and your state does not offer same-day replacement, ask whether a temporary placard or temporary permit is available while you wait for the permanent one.

Temporary placards while you wait for your replacement

Some states issue a temporary paper placard or temporary permit that you can use while your permanent replacement is being processed. This temporary version usually lasts 30 to 60 days and is valid for parking in handicap spaces just like the permanent placard. Not all states offer this, so ask the DMV when you request your replacement whether a temporary option is available.

If a temporary placard is available, you may receive it when ready — either printed on the spot if you explore in person, or mailed with your process. If you explore online, the temporary may be emailed to you as a PDF that you can print and display in your vehicle. Check the rules for your state: some require the temporary to be displayed a certain way, and some have specific expiration dates.

What to do if your replacement does not arrive

If you have been waiting longer than your state's stated processing time and your replacement has not arrived, contact the DMV office that processed your request. Have your driver's license number and the date you submitted your request ready. The DMV can check the status of your replacement and tell you whether it has been mailed, is still being processed, or was lost in the mail.

If the placard was lost in the mail, the DMV will usually issue another one at no additional charge. If there was an error in your address or the form was incomplete, the DMV will let you know what needs to be corrected. If you applied online and did not receive a confirmation email, check your spam folder or contact the DMV to confirm your process was received.

Preventing loss or damage to your new placard

Once you receive your replacement, keep it in a safe place when you are not using it. Many people store their placard in the glove compartment or under the sun visor, but these spots can expose it to heat and UV light, which can fade or crack the placard over time. A better option is to keep it in a protective case or folder when it is not displayed on your mirror or dashboard.

If your placard is a hanging mirror-mount style, remove it when you leave your vehicle unattended, especially in public parking lots. Placards are targets for theft because they can be sold or used illegally. If you have a permanent placard mounted to your license plate instead, it is harder to steal, though you should still report it to the DMV if it goes missing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay a fee for a replacement if my placard was stolen?

Most states charge a replacement fee regardless of the reason, but some waive the fee if you provide a police report showing the placard was stolen. A few states charge for all replacements. Check your state DMV website or call to ask whether a police report will waive the fee in your state.

Can I get a replacement placard if I do not have my original placard number?

Yes. The DMV can look up your placard number using your driver's license number and other identifying information. You do not need the original placard number to request a replacement, though having it can speed up the process.

What if I moved to a different state after getting my placard?

You will need to get a new placard from your new state's DMV. Most states do not honor placards issued by other states. Contact your new state's DMV to find out whether you can transfer your disability status or whether you need to reapply. Some states accept medical documentation from your previous state; others require a new evaluation.

Can I request a replacement placard online if I lost mine?

Many states offer online replacement requests, but not all. Check your state DMV website to see if online requests are available. If your state does not offer online replacement, you can request one by mail or in person at a local DMV office.

How many times can I get a replacement placard?

Most states do not limit the number of replacements you can request. However, some states charge a higher fee for a second or third replacement, or require you to explain repeated losses. If you have lost multiple placards, ask the DMV whether there are limits or additional requirements in your state.