If you are looking to get an official permit allowing you to park in a disabled spot, there are several steps you need to follow; and, as the specific steps and requirements tend to be different in every state, it can get frustrating quickly! However, if you prepare ahead, make sure that you read the instructions and collect the proper documentation, and follow-through, it’s very possible to receive everything you need without too much of a headache. 

Gather Your Materials

As early as you can, start putting together the required documents for your application. This is typically the most work-intensive step of the process, so beginning early can help make sure that getting your disabled parking permit is as little of a headache as possible! The following materials are required for submission when you apply for a disability parking permit in MN: 

  • Physician Certificate. To qualify for disability parking in Minnesota, you need to obtain a signed statement from a licensed doctor that describes and affirms your condition. The specific document which your doctor should fill out and sign is part of the Application for Disability Parking Certificate, which can be found on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website.  
  • The completed Application form. You should fill out the form yourself, as best you are able; however, if necessary due to your condition, someone else can help you. If you are unable to sign the form, whoever helps you will need to acquire Power of Attorney to sign for you. 
    • Helpful Information to Know: To fill out your form, you will need to provide your Minnesota Driver’s License or Identification number, your full name and address, and, if you are applying for a replacement, whether your original certificate was lost or stolen. 
  • The appropriate fee. The fee required will depend on the duration required for your disabled parking permit. If you will require a permanent permit, there is no fee associated with your application in the state of Minnesota. A permanent permit will last for six years. However, if you only need the privileges temporarily (any amount of time less than one year), you will be asked to provide a service fee of $5.00.
  • If you are applying for a disability parking permit due to a medical condition pertaining to pregnancy, provide this information on the form, and request a Temporary permit which will last only through the expected completion of the pregnancy. 

Submit the application

There are currently three ways to apply for a disability parking permit in MN. 

  • Submit In Person. If you choose to submit in person, gather the materials detailed above and report to your nearest Motor Vehicle Registrar’s office.
  • Mail Your Application In. The back of your application has the address of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Fill an envelope containing all applicable materials and send it to that address, using appropriate postage. 
  • Submit Online. If neither of these options sounds feasible to you, there is a simple and easy way to apply online. The whole process, from initial evaluation by a physician to submission of the completed form, can be taken care of from the comfort of your home via video chat and email, and all of your information will remain completely secure. 

Properly Use Your Parking Permit

To fully enjoy the benefits of your official disabled parking permit, please remember to display the permit in the car whenever you plan on using a disabled parking space. Remember that in Minnesota, the permit is issued to you, not to a specific car — so you can take it with you, regardless of your specific ride. 

The parking permit should be displayed on the rearview mirror of your car, and it very important that it is only displayed when the car is parked. Please remember to remove it when you are ready to leave your parking space, as having the permit dangling from the mirror while you are driving is both dangerous and against the law. 

However, if the nature of your disability makes removing and replacing the permit unduly difficult, please place the permit on your dashboard instead of hanging it from your mirror for a more permanent option. 

Know What You Can Do With Your Permit

A Minnesota Disability Parking permit enables a car that has the permit properly displayed to park in specifically designated parking places, usually marked with either a sign or with the wheelchair accessibility symbol painted on the ground. The car using the permit must be either used by the disabled person or used for the benefit of the disabled person. 

As your disabled parking permit is intended to make your life a little easier, please don’t misuse it in any way to make other’s lives more difficult. Misuse of your permit may result in disciplinary action including revocation of your permit completely. 

Renew Your Parking Permit 

If you request a subsequent temporary, short-term, or long-term parking permit, please be aware that the disability you cited for application initially must be re-assessed by your physician. If approved, you will be issued another parking permit. Those applicants with permanent or six-year permits do not require the cooperation of a healthcare professional for renewal.

Parking Violations

Your parking permit only allows you to park in designated disabled parking spaces if you use it properly! Be aware that if you: 

  • Do not display your parking permit properly
  • Use a permit that is not issued in your name
  • Block an access aisle (the area just next to a disabled parking space), or
  • Alter your parking permit in any way

You may be liable to disciplinary action, including the revocation of your parking permit. 

A disability parking permit in MN can enable a person with a disability to navigate parking lots in a much more accessible way. The processes for obtaining, using, and renewing these permits in Minnesota are simple. Follow the above guide to ensure that you have everything that you need. Remember to use the permit once you have received it.