How To Get Your Disabled Parking Permit In New Jersey

Receiving your disabled parking permit can be a confusing and tricky experience. Each state within the United States has its own rules and regulations about who can have a disabled parking permit. Even a city can have its own set of various laws for disabled parking.

 If you’re looking for some clarity, this guide is for you. Let’s dive into how to get your disabled parking permit in New Jersey.

Do You Qualify?

Because New Jersey has its own set of laws on who can own a disabled parking permit, you must understand who exactly qualifies. You must be able to meet at least one criterion given or more. This is the first step to obtaining your disabled parking permit. Here are the prerequisites in New Jersey:

  • You must have lost the use of one or more limbs as a consequence of paralysis, amputation, or other permanent disability.
  • You must be severely and permanently disabled and cannot walk without the use of or assistance from a crutch, cane, brace, prosthetic device, wheelchair, another person, or other assistive devices.
  • You must suffer from lung disease to such an extent that your forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for 1 second when measured by spirometry, is less than 1 liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than 60 mm/hg on room air at rest.
  • You must have a cardiac condition to the extent that your functional limitations are classified in severity as Class II or Class IV according to the standards set by the American Heart Association.
  • You must be severely and permanently limited in the ability to walk because of an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.
  • You cannot walk 200 feet without stopping to rest
  • You must have a permanent sight impairment of both eyes as certified by the NJ. Commission of the Blind.

What exactly are the functional limitations standards set by the American Heart Association?

The prerequisite about the American Heart Association concerns the Association’s functional capacity qualifications. The qualifications are for those with cardiac disease to the extent that it limits their capacity for physical activity. Here is the Association’s definitions for Class III and Class IV functional limitations:

  • Class III – Patients marked as Class III have a cardiac disease that has resulted in marked limitation of physical activity. They are comfortable at rest. And, less than ordinary activity causes fatigue, palpitation, anginal pain, or dyspnea.
  • Class IV – Patients marked as Class IV have a cardiac disease that has resulted in an inability to carry on any physical activity without discomfort. Symptoms of heart failure or the anginal syndrome may be present even at rest. And, if any physical activity is undertaken, discomfort is increased.

Some of the other qualifications may be confusing as well. However, you need to obtain a certification from a medical professional to complete your application. This is a great time to meet with a doctor and discuss if you meet any of the requirements above.

The Types of Disabled Parking Permits

Some states have a larger variety of different disabled parking permits. However, New Jersey only has two. They are a temporary parking permit and a permanent parking permit. Here are some of the differences:

1. Temporary Parking Permit

Those who have a temporary injury or reversible disability are best suited for a temporary parking permit. To apply, you must complete and turn in an Application for Temporary Placard. Or, more formally known as Form SP-68.

The temporary permit is valid for a total of six months. Once that time comes, if you still need the disabled parking permit, you must apply for another temporary permit. The renewal will last another six months. You’ll also need to visit a medical professional to re-certify your injury.

It’s also important to note that, in New Jersey, you must apply for a temporary disabled parking permit in-person with your local sheriff. It is not issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission as many might think.

2. Permanent Parking Permit

If you have a long-term disability or a permanent disability, you should apply for the permanent parking permit. These are issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission instead of the local police chief.

To apply for it, you must complete the Application for Vehicle License Plates and/or Placard for Persons with a Disability. Or, more formally known as Form Sp-41. Just attach the certification you’ve received from a medical professional.

If you’re interested in a wheelchair symbol license plate you should not that you’ll also need to provide a copy of your vehicle registration.

To submit your permanent parking permit application you can drop it off at your local Motor Vehicle Commission office or mail it to:

MVC

Special Plate Unit

P.O. Box 015

Trenton, NJ 08666

Mailing your application may take up to 6 weeks. However, if you apply in person, you’ll get your disabled parking permit on the same day!

After You Receive Your Disabled Parking Permit

Have you received your disabled parking permit? Great! But, there are a few things you should know to ensure that you’re getting the most from it.

Placards have to be displayed on your rearview mirror whenever your vehicle is parked in a designated area. When your vehicle is in motion, make sure to remove your placard from the rearview mirror. If you continue to drive with it there, it could be counted as an obstruction.

Renewals for temporary placards are available to extend the six months. Permanent placards must be renewed every three years by a medical professional. Make sure to keep your permits valid!

Conclusion

By now you should know everything you need to know about getting your disabled parking permit in New Jersey. Always keep your placards visible when you’re parked in a designated area. And, remember, it’s illegal to park in a designated area if the owner of the disabled parking permit isn’t present.

New Jersey Disability Parking Permits – What You Need to Know

Fortunately, there are more accommodations for disabled people these days, and this includes convenient parking. If you enjoy going out with family and friends or have a job that requires you to travel often, you may find handicap parking to be a huge relief. If you’re a New Jersey resident, here are a few things you need to know for obtaining a disabled parking permit so you can legally the parking spaces designed for you.

Your Eligibility

If you’re a New Jersey resident, you can get a parking permit from the state’s Motor Vehicle Commission. Once you receive your permit, you’ll be able to park in designated spaces if you have a temporary or permanent disability.

If you can’t use one or more of your limbs due to amputation, paralysis or other serious health issue, you can apply for a permit. You’ll also be issued a parking placard if you can’t work without the assistance of someone else, or if you need a walker, cane or wheelchair for mobility.

The state will also give you a permit if you have a heart condition that inhibits your mobility. In most cases, these conditions are classified as a Class 3 or Class 4 cardiac condition by the American Heart Association.

New Jersey will also give you a disabled parking permit if you have orthopedic issues that affect your ability to walk, you have nerve pain or damage or suffer from arthritis.

No matter what your condition, if you can’t walk more than 200 feet without taking a break, you’ll likely receive a parking permit.

Types of Disability Parking Permits

If you meet one or more of the qualifications, you can visit your nearest Motor Vehicle Commission location to apply for your permit. You can apply for a temporary or permanent placard. Permanent disability placards are blue and temporary placards are red. Remember that before you turn in your application, you’ll need certification from your doctor verifying your disability.

If you’ve recently sustained an injury or your recovering from surgery, you’re likely eligible for a temporary permit. You have to apply for the permit in person at your local police station, since the police chief issues temporary parking permits in the state. If you visit the Motor Vehicle Commission for a temporary placard, you’ll be directed to your local police station.

Simply fill out the Application for Temporary Placard, which is Form SP-68. You must include medical certification and pay a $4 fee to complete your application.

Your temporary disability placard is good for six months. If you think you’ll need the permit for longer, you can apply for an additional six months. However, your doctor will have to verify this and you’ll need to fill out an application again. You’ll also have to pay an additional $4. If you have to replace your permit, you should contact your local police chief.

If you have a long-term disability, you should apply for a permanent permit. This permit comes form the Motor Vehicle Commission instead of the local police chief. You can apply for a permanent parking permit by mail or in person.

Once you apply for a permanent parking permit, you’ll also get a disability ID card. It’s important to keep this ID card with you at all times. You’ll also have to submit the Application for Vehicle License Plates and/or Placard for Persons with a Disability, which is form SP-41. Don’t forget to include certification from your doctor. If you also want a disability license plate, you’ll have to give the MVC a copy of your vehicle registration.

Once your application is complete, you can take all your documents to the nearest MVC or send it by mail to:

MVC

Special Plate Unit

P.O. Box 015

Trenton, NJ 08666

If you apply for your permanent disability permit in person, you’ll receive the permit the same day. If you mail your application, the process can take up to 6 weeks.

Your permanent disability permit is valid for up to 3 years. After this period, you’ll have to renew your placards or plates, and you can do this free of charge. However, you will have to get re-certification from your doctor, fill out another application and take these materials to your local MVC office.

Disabled Veteran License Plates In New Jersey

You can receive placards and other benefits in the state of New Jersey if you have served in the Armed Forces. According to New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-207.10) you are exempt from paying at a municipal parking meter for up to 24 hours if you have a Purple Heart or are a disabled veteran. However, there are some stipulations. The vehicle must owned by the Purple Heart recipient or disabled veteran, or the veteran must be a passenger in the vehicle. The vehicle also has to have a MVC-issued placard. Purple Heart and disabled veteran placards give veterans the same privileges as disabled license plates.

If you’re applying for a disabled veteran placard, you must be the owner of the vehicle where the placard will be displayed and you must certify that you will be driving the car or will be a passenger in the automobile.

Disabled veterans must submit a DD-214 or DD-215 along with a Award of Disability letter by the Veteran’s Administration. If you’re a Purple Heart recipient you’ll also have to give the MVC a DD-214 or DD-215 that confirms your Purple Heart status or a citation certifying that you have received a Purple Heart. You can also submit the General Order for the Purple Heart.

You can receive your placard at a local MVC or in the mail. If you want to get your placard in person, submit the necessary forms and a signed SP-47 form or by mail to:

NJMVC

Special Plates Unit

P. O. Box 015

Trenton, NJ 08666-015

Your placards have to be renewed every three years.

Whether you’re displaying permanent or temporary disability permits or disabled veteran placards, be sure the items are clearly displayed when your car is parked. Remember to take these permits down when you’re operating your vehicle.

Why Do You Need a Disability Parking Permit in New Jersey?

If you work outside of the home, attend school or attend special events with your family and friends often, you know how challenging it can be to find parking some days. Getting the right parking space can help you stick to your schedule and keep you from having to frantically rush into work or school. Now, think about how important it is to find an ideal parking space if you’re disabled. When you have limited mobility and aren’t able to walk long distances without pain and discomfort, it’s crucial that you have access to convenient parking.

If you live in the state of New Jersey, there are a few things you should know about obtaining a handicap parking permit. Keep this information in mind when you apply for your placard.

What Qualifies You For Handicap Parking In New Jersey?

You’ll have to meet one or more conditions outlined by the state of New Jersey to receive a disabled parking permit. For instance, if you:

  • Have lost one or more limbs or lost the use of one or more limbs because of amputation, paralysis or another permanent disability
  • Are severely disabled and can’t walk without holding onto someone or use a crutch, cane or brace
  • You wear a prosthetic device or have to use a wheelchair or walker for mobility
  • You have lung disease and your expiratory volume is less than one meter for one second when measured by spirometry
  • You have a heart-related condition that is considered Class 3 or Class 4 by the American Heart Association
  • You have arthritis that affects your mobility
  • You have nerve pain and damage that affects your mobility
  • You have orthopedic pain and damage that affects your mobility
  • You can’t walk more than 200 feet without stopping to rest

You can also receive a placard if you have permanent sight impairment in both eyes. This information must be certified by the New Jersey Commission of the Blind.

Getting An Application

To apply for a handicap parking permit in New Jersey, you must complete the New Jersey Application for Disability Parking Identification. This application is for a placard or permanent handicapped license plate. You can visit the MVC facility closest to you, obtain the form online, or call 888-486-3339 for more information.

If you need a permit for a temporary medical condition, the placard is valid for up to six months. You can receive temporary disability placards from the nearest New Jersey municipal police department.

Medical Certification

As of August 2013, the state of New Jersey required disabled persons to receive certification of their disability from a medical practitioner. This certification is part of the handicap permit application and renewal process. If you live in New Jersey, your primary care doctor, nurse practitioner, chiropractor, podiatrist or physician assistant can certify that you do indeed have a disability. Any medical professional who signs your application must be licensed to practice medicine in New Jersey or a neighboring state. You can also receive certification from a doctor who is stationed at a naval or military base in New Jersey but is licensed to practice medicine in any state.

Once you fill out your half of the form, the second half of your application must be completed by your doctor.

Types of New Jersey Disability Plates and Placards

If you have a permanent disability, you can choose from one set of license plate with the wheelchair symbol, one disability placard or one set of license plates and one placard. If you have a temporary disability, you simply get your placard from the local police department. Make sure you bring documents that indicate that your doctor has deemed you temporarily disabled. The doctor may also state how long you’ll need the placard in your paperwork.

Permanent disability placards are blue and temporary placards are red. This clear distinction makes the permits easy to see and reminds you of the stipulations attached to each of them.

Renewals and Expiration

If you’re applying for a permanent disability placard, you’ll need to renew the placard every three years. When you’re nearing your renewal date, you can obtain an application from the MVC and ask your doctor or medical practitioner to sign and fill out your permit forms. You don’t have to pay a fee to renew your permanent disability placards.

For temporary placards, the cost is $4. The placard is valid for six months. If you think you still need the parking permit after the first six-month period, you can apply for a new placard. Your doctor will have to confirm that you need an additional parking permit, and you’ll pay an additional $4. If you need to replace your permit or lose it, you can contact your local police chief for a replacement.

Adhering to Parking Laws

In New Jersey, you are not allowed to park your vehicle in a handicap space if the vehicle is not properly identified. According to state law, you could face a fine of up to $250 and/or 90 days of community service.

If you’re traveling from another state and have handicap plates or placards, New Jersey will recognize these items as valid. Just make sure your plates and permits are up to date.

If you see someone parking in a disabled parking space who is not handicapped, you can report the incident to the local police or the security company responsible for the property. You can also share this information with the property owner to reduce the chances of further parking abuse.

Remember that your handicap placard should always be visible when your car is parked; you should remove it when the car is in motion. Your friends and family can’t use your handicap parking permit when you’re not in the car. Make sure your loved ones know this so they can avoid parking illegally and having to pay a fine.

These helpful suggestions will make applying for and renewing your New Jersey handicap parking permit easier.

New Jersey Handicap Parking Permits –Application and Renewal Processes

Disabilities come with a variety of challenges that can make getting around the city difficult. So, when you arrive at work or school, you likely want to be able to get to the entrance as soon as possible. To park in handicap spaces in New Jersey, you’ll need a disabled parking permit. It’s important to know the regulations for receiving a permit and how to renew your placard when it expires so you can continue experiencing the benefits provided by the permit.

Where to Get Your Permit

If you’re getting a placard for a permanent disability, you can receive it from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. The permit allows you to legally park in a handicap space. You have to fill out SP-41 and attach a document from your medical professional indicating your disability. There is no fee for this type of permit, but you have to provide a copy of your current vehicle registration. Your plates and placard will last for three years. It’s best to renew them before the expiration date to ensure your permit is valid at all times. If you apply for or renew your permanent disability materials in person, you’ll receive them right away. If you complete the process by mail, you’ll have your permit and plates within six weeks. Send your application and all necessary materials by mail to:

MVC

Special Plate Unit

P.O. Box 015

Trenton, NJ 08666

You can also apply for a temporary disability permit. However, in New Jersey, you should contact your local police department to get a permit, since the placards are distributed by the local police chief. You’ll have to fill out Form SP-68, which is the Application for Temporary Placard and pay a $4 fee. If you need the placard for longer than six months, you must fill out a new application and have your doctor verify your ongoing disability. You’ll also pay an additional $4 fee.

Determining Your Eligibility

Temporary disabilities are conditions like a broken arm or leg or limited mobility due to a sports injury or automobile accident. If you’ve recently had surgery, this can also classify as a temporary disability. These conditions usually only last for a few weeks or months, and you can apply for a parking permit that will allow for easier parking access while you’re recovering.

If you have a long-term or permanent disability, you can apply for permanent handicap parking permits. However, you must meet one or more of several qualifications established by the state of New Jersey.

If you no longer have use of one or more limbs or are missing one or more limbs, you likely qualify for a permit. If you are an amputee, are disabled due to paralysis or have a condition that restricts or limits the use of all your limbs, you can apply for a disability permit.

You are also eligible for a permanent disability permit if you’re unable to walk without assistance. Whether you need the help of another individual or have to use a crutch, cane, brace, walker or wheelchair, you can receive a permit for convenient parking.

The state of New Jersey also issues permanent disability parking permits for individuals with heart conditions. If your cardiac condition inhibits your ability to walk or function and is labeled as a Class 3 or Class 4 condition by the American Heart Association, you can receive a parking permit.

If you have severe nerve pain or damage, suffer from arthritis or have orthopedic issues that make it difficult to walk, you can submit a permit application for approval. This also applies to New Jersey residents who are unable to walk more than 200 feet without having to stop and/or take a break.

Permits and Plates for NJ Veterans

If you’re a disabled veteran or have received a Purple Heart while serving in the military, you can receive plates and placards free of charge. You’ll have to submit a letter from the Veterans Administration stating your disability and your Purple Heart status. When you have the plates on your vehicle or the placard is displayed on your car, you can park in metered parking spaces for no penalty for 24 hours. This rule also applies if you, the disabled veteran, are a passenger in a car that is parked at a metered location.

Disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients must bring a DD-214 or DD-215 to the nearest New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission in addition to the Veterans Administration letter. You should also submit a signed application, which is form SP-47 to the MVC or submit the form(s) by mail at:

NJMVC

Special Plates Unit

P. O. Box 015

Trenton, NJ 08666-015

Your Purple Heart and disabled veteran tags and placards must be renewed every three years. Your placards will show the expiration date for your items. The month and date to renew your placard will be punched out to help you plan ahead and schedule your renewal before your materials expire.

Reporting Parking Abuse

If you see anyone who is parking in a handicap space who doesn’t need to do so, the person is likely committing parking abuse. This is a misdemeanor in New Jersey and offenders have to pay a fine of up to $250. Those who are caught parking illegally a second time may have to pay the $250 fine again, along with 90 days of community service.

You can avoid parking abuse by making sure your permit is visible when the car is parked. Keep all your disability materials, including your ID card and placard, up to date in case you have to provide verification. Remember that your friends and family members can’t use your handicap placard unless you are a passenger in the car. If you see someone parking illegally, let local business owners know and notify nearby security or police officers. This ensures that you’ll have a place to safely park when you visit your favorite New Jersey locations.

How to Get Your New Jersey Handicap Parking Permit and Plates

The challenge of living with a disability means that you have to make adjustments to your day that most people don’t have to consider. You may have to make sure that you host events at a venue that is handicap accessible. Or, you may have special features in your home that make it easier for you to complete daily tasks and maintain your quality of life.

Being able to park close to an entrance or exit when you’re at work or school can be beneficial for you if you have limited mobility. If you live in New Jersey and have a disability, it’s important to know the state’s guidelines for receiving a parking permit.

What Constitutes a Disability?

If you have a short-term condition that will limit your mobility, you can receive a temporary disability permit. Your doctor or nurse practitioner will have to verify that you need the parking permit. If you’ve recently had surgery, were injured while playing a sport or broke an arm or leg, the doctor will likely sign the appropriate section of your permit application. You may also be eligible for a permit if you’ve recently given birth and have limited mobility as a result.

If you have a permanent disability, you apply for a placard and license plate. If you have to stop and rest after walking 200 feet or less, you are eligible for a permit. If you have arthritis, a neurological condition or an orthopedic condition that limits your ability to walk comfortably for long distances, you can receive a permit. The state will also issue you a parking permit if you have lung disease that severely impacts your mobility, or if you have a Class 3 or Class 4 heart condition that is classified by the American Heart Association. New Jersey residents who are missing one or more limbs, can not use one or more limbs or have restricted use of one or more limbs can apply for a disabled parking permit as well. Residents who are legally blind or visually impaired can also receive approval for a permit.

Where to Get Permits and Pay Fees

You can apply for a disability parking permit in New Jersey if you have a temporary or permanent disability. Permanent disability permits are free and temporary permits costs $4. New Jersey residents can obtain a permanent disability placard from their local Motor Vehicles Commission. However, residents who are applying for a temporary placard must obtain the permit from the local police chief. The cost for a temporary disability permit is $4.

How Long Do the Permits Last?

Permanent handicap placards and plates are valid in New Jersey for three years. The month and year for renewal is indicated on the placard, which allows you to plan ahead and renew your items in person or by mail.

Temporary placards are valid for six months. In some cases, the permit is valid for a shorter amount of time. Your doctor will dictate this on your application. If you need the permit for longer than six months, you can ask your doctor to certify a new document for you, fill out a new application and pay an additional $4 at your local police station.

Plates for Military Members and Veterans

If you’ve served in the Armed Forces or are currently in the military, you can receive specialty tags for your vehicle. Active duty members of the Armed Forces, including the Coast Guard, have to pay a $25 fee for military tags.

Disabled veterans can get license plates for $15 and Purple Heart recipients receive plates free of charge. Disabled veterans can also receive a parking permit and must submit a letter to the MVC from the Veterans Administration verifying disability. The plates are valid for three years and the expiration date is listed on the license plate or placard. Military members and veterans can call the MVC at 609-292-6500 ext.5061 to request a license plate application. Once the application is complete, it can be mailed to:

NJ Motor Vehicle Commission

Special Plate Unit

PO Box 015

Trenton, NJ 08666-0015

Members of the military who are deployed can also request extensions on tag renewal and registration. Once a military member is demobilized, all vehicle-related documents have to be renewed within 90 days of his/her return from duty. It’s best for individuals in the military to carry their Administrative Orders in their vehicles. Police officers in New Jersey are aware of military benefits when it comes to license plate registration.

Veterans who are disabled due to serving in the military and blind residents can receive parking permits and plates for free. These individuals must have a valid New Jersey drivers license or generate license number and their vehicles must be insured by a company that is licensed in New Jersey. Veterans who have vehicles that are equipped with attachments or devices that are essential for safe operation. Disabled veterans are also allowed to park in metered parking spaces free of charge for 24 hours.

Handicap Parking Abuse

Handicap parking abuse is defined as an able-bodied, non-disabled person parking in a handicap parking space. This is a misdemeanor offense in New Jersey. The punishment is a fine of up to $250. Subsequent offences can result in an additional $250 fine and up to 90 days of community service.

Make sure your friends and family don’t abuse handicap parking spaces by only using your license plates and placards when you are in the vehicle. If you’re not driving the car or a passenger in the car, the person operating your vehicle can not park in a handicap space. Remember not to park on the blue lines in between handicap parking space, since these are designed to provide enough room for people in wheelchairs and other mobility devices to get out of their cars safely.

If you witness handicap parking abuse, let a security guard or police officer know. Be sure to describe the car in as much detail as possible to prevent parking abuse in the future.