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Illinois Disability License Plates and Placards

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Illinois offers disability license plates and parking placards to qualifying individuals with disabilities to ensure equitable access to parking and transportation. These accommodations are managed by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office and follow specific state and federal guidelines.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for disability plates or placards in Illinois, an individual must have a verified medical condition that significantly impairs mobility. Common qualifying conditions include:

  • Inability to walk 200 feet without stopping
  • Use of a wheelchair, brace, cane, or other assistive devices
  • Severe lung disease or cardiac conditions
  • Loss or substantial impairment of one or both legs or hands
  • Visual or neurological conditions that impair mobility

Certification must be completed by a licensed physician, advanced practice nurse, optometrist, or chiropractor using the Persons with Disabilities Certification for Parking Placard/License Plates (VSD 62) form.

Types of Placards and Plates

Illinois issues four main types of disability parking credentials:

Permanent Placards

Valid for four years and issued to individuals with permanent disabilities. They are renewable and must be prominently displayed from the rearview mirror when parked.

Temporary Placards

Valid for up to six months, typically issued after surgeries or during temporary impairments. These are not renewable and require a new application for an extension.

Meter-Exempt Permanent Placards

Issued only to those who qualify for exemption from paying parking meter fees. These require strict physician certification confirming the inability to access or operate a parking meter due to a physical limitation.

Disability License Plates

Available for qualified individuals who are either the owner or the co-owner of the registered vehicle. The plates display the international symbol of access and provide the same parking privileges as placards.

Application Process

To apply for disability plates or placards in Illinois:

  1. Complete the appropriate section of Form VSD 62.

  2. Have your medical provider complete and sign the certification.

  3. Mail or deliver the form to:

     Office of the Secretary of State
 Persons with Disabilities License Plates/Placard Unit
 501 S. Second St., Room 541
 Springfield, IL 62756

For disability plates, you must also submit the vehicle registration information and pay the standard plate issuance fee.

Illinois Specialty License Plates Guide offers further details on other plate types available in Illinois.

Holders of disability plates or placards are entitled to park in designated accessible parking spaces. However, misuse—including using someone else’s placard or using it when the eligible person is not present—can result in fines up to $2,500, possible license suspension, and confiscation of the placard or plates.

Meter-exempt placard holders are allowed to park in metered spaces without paying fees, except in commercial zones or loading areas. Always check local signage and ordinances.

Renewals and Replacements

  • Permanent placards are renewable every four years. Renewal reminders are typically sent by mail.
  • Disability plates must be renewed during your regular vehicle registration cycle. Illinois License Plate Options and Renewal Process provides more details.
  • If a placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must submit a replacement request with proper identification and documentation.

Additional Resources

For the most up-to-date and detailed information, visit the Illinois Secretary of State's official disability services page.