Get a replacement placard by contacting your state's motor vehicle department with proof of your disability and your original placard number

Replacing a handicap placard is faster than getting your first one because you already have documentation on file. Most states let you request a replacement by mail, phone, or online portal without a new medical exam. You will need your original placard number, your driver's license or ID, and proof that the placard is lost, damaged, or expired. Processing usually takes two to four weeks, though some states offer expedited replacements for an extra fee.

The exact steps depend on which state issued your placard. A placard is valid only in the state that issued it, so if you moved, you will need to explore for a new one through your new state's motor vehicle department. If you are unsure which state issued yours, check the placard itself — the issuing state is printed on the back.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state's motor vehicle department directly by phone, mail, or their online portal to request a replacement without starting over.
  • Have your original placard number ready, along with your driver's license and a reason for replacement (lost, damaged, or expired).
  • Most replacements take two to four weeks; some states charge a small fee or offer faster processing for an additional cost.
  • If you moved to a different state, you must obtain a new placard through your new state's motor vehicle department rather than renewing the old one.
  • Temporary placards are sometimes available while you wait for your permanent replacement to arrive.

Locate your state's motor vehicle department contact information

Each state runs its own handicap placard program, so you contact the agency that issued yours. In most states, this is the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though some call it the Secretary of State's office or Department of Transportation. Search online for "[your state] handicap placard replacement" to find the right phone number or website.

When you call or visit the website, look for a section labeled "disabled parking permit," "handicap placard," or "accessible parking." Some states have a dedicated phone line for placard requests separate from general DMV calls. Having your placard number ready will speed up the process — the agent can pull up your file when ready rather than searching by name and address.

Gather your placard number and identification documents

Your original placard number is printed on the front or back of your current placard. If the placard is damaged but still readable, write down the number before you submit your request. If the placard is completely lost or destroyed, tell the motor vehicle department when you contact them — they can look up your account by your driver's license number and date of birth.

Have your driver's license or state ID card available when you call or explore online. Some states also ask for your vehicle registration or the vehicle identification number (VIN) if the placard was issued for a specific vehicle. If your disability status has changed since your last placard was issued, you may need a new medical certification from a doctor, but most states do not require this for a straightforward replacement.

Choose your replacement method: mail, phone, or online

Most states offer at least two ways to request a replacement. Online portals are usually the fastest — you upload a photo of your ID, enter your placard number, and pay any fee with a credit card. Processing can take as little as one week. Phone requests take about the same time; an agent verifies your information and mails the replacement to your address on file. Mail-in requests require you to fill out a form, include a copy of your ID, and mail it to the address listed on your state's website — these typically take three to four weeks.

If your placard was issued for a specific vehicle, confirm whether your replacement needs to be tied to the same vehicle or a different one. Some states allow you to switch vehicles without reapplying; others require a new request. Ask the agent or check the online form before you submit.

Pay any replacement fee and confirm your mailing address

Most states charge a small fee for replacement placards — typically between $5 and $25, though some states do not charge at all. A few states offer free replacements for lost or damaged placards but charge a fee if the placard straightforward expired. Ask about the fee when you contact the motor vehicle department so you know what to expect.

Confirm that the placard will be mailed to the address on your driver's license. If you have moved recently and your ID has not been updated, update your address with the motor vehicle department first, or provide your current mailing address when you request the replacement. Some states allow you to pick up a replacement in person at a local DMV office if you need it sooner than mail delivery.

Track your replacement and use a temporary placard if available

After you submit your request, ask whether the motor vehicle department will send you a confirmation number or email. Keep this for your records. Some states allow you to check the status of your replacement online using your confirmation number or placard number.

If you need to park in accessible spaces while you wait, ask whether your state issues temporary placards. Some states mail a temporary paper placard along with your request confirmation, valid for 30 to 60 days. Others require you to pick one up in person at a DMV office. If no temporary placard is available and you cannot wait, contact your state's motor vehicle department to ask about expedited processing — some states can issue a replacement within a few business days for an additional fee.

What to do if your replacement does not arrive

If your placard does not arrive within the timeframe your state quoted, contact the motor vehicle department with your confirmation number. Mail delays happen, especially during busy seasons. The agency can reissue the placard or confirm that it was sent and provide tracking information if available.

If your replacement arrives damaged or with errors on it, contact the motor vehicle department when ready. Most states will send a corrected placard at no extra charge. Do not use a damaged placard — it may not be recognized by parking enforcement, and you could receive a citation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old placard while I wait for the replacement?

No. Once a placard is lost, damaged, or expired, it is no longer valid for parking. Using an invalid placard can result in a parking citation. If your state offers temporary placards, use that while waiting for your permanent replacement.

Do I need a new medical exam to replace my placard?

Not usually. Replacements for lost, damaged, or expired placards do not require a new medical certification in most states. However, if your disability status has changed or your original certification has expired, your state may ask for updated documentation from your doctor.

What if I moved to a different state?

You cannot renew a placard from another state. You must obtain a new placard through your current state's motor vehicle department. Contact them to learn what documentation you need — some states accept your old placard as proof of prior disability certification, while others require a new medical form.

How much does a replacement placard cost?

Fees vary by state, ranging from free to about $25. Some states charge only for expired replacements, not for lost or damaged ones. Contact your state's motor vehicle department to confirm the fee before you submit your request.

Can I pick up my replacement in person instead of waiting for mail?

Some states allow in-person pickup at a local DMV office, which can be faster than mail delivery. Call your state's motor vehicle department or check their website to see if this option is available and whether you need an appointment.