On behalf of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), which regulates parking in the District, DC DMV issues three types of disability placards or permits:
- One-week permits,
- Temporary placards, and
- Long-term placards.
One-Week Permits
A one-week disability permit is available if you only require the permit for a week or less or you have a visitor who requires it. A doctor’s certification is not required for a one-week permit. The one-week permit is not renewable within a one-year period.
Temporary Placards
A temporary disability placard is available if you have a physical condition that substantially impairs your mobility that is expected to last no longer than eight years. Your medical practitioner must certify the application and indicate the expected length of your disability. If you find you need your disabled privileges longer, you must submit a new application with a medical practitioner's certification.
Long-Term Placards
A long-term disability placard is available if you have a long-term disability. The list of qualifying disabilities is included on the application for the placard. You do not need a medical practitioner's certification if you have an obvious missing lower extremity or you use a motorized wheelchair. The long-term placard is valid up to eight years.
To renew it, you must submit a new application with a medical practitioner's certification.
Duration of Placard/Permit
Temporary and long-term placards expire on the last day of the month and year indicated on the placard/permit.
How to Apply
You can apply online, by mail or in-person for a disability parking placard/permit by completing and submitting the DC DMV application for disability parking placard/permit.
- Application for Disability Parking Placard or Tags
- One-Week Temporary Disability Parking Permit Application
- Fax it to (202) 673-9908
By Mail
DC DMV
ATTN: Disability Services
PO Box 90120
Washington, DC 20090
Your disability parking placard/permit will be processed within 7–10 business days from receipt. Please allow up to 15 business days to receive your product before contacting DC DMV.
By law, one placard and one set of vehicle tags may be issued for each applicant who is a DC resident. There is no charge for a disability placard/permit.
Disability Placard/Permit Replacement
DC DMV will replace your disability parking placard/permit if they are lost or stolen or need to be replaced due to wear and tear. To obtain replacement placards, please visit a DC DMV Service Center and present the following original documents.
- Valid DC DMV credential
- A Metropolitan Police Department police report is required for the lost or stolen disability parking placards/permits
Note: DC DMV provides disability access to all of our service centers, including the Inspection Station and Adjudication Services.