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Handicap Parking Permits in Louisiana

3 min read

Louisiana offers handicap parking placards and license plates to residents with qualifying disabilities. These permits provide access to designated accessible parking spots, ensuring greater mobility and independence for individuals with physical limitations.

Who Qualifies for a Handicap Parking Permit?

To be eligible for a handicap parking placard or plate in Louisiana, an individual must have one or more of the following conditions:

  • Inability to walk without assistance from another person, a walker, cane, brace, or crutch
  • Use of a wheelchair
  • Respiratory conditions that severely restrict breathing
  • Cardiac conditions classified as Class III or IV by the American Heart Association
  • Severe visual impairment or legal blindness
  • Any condition that limits mobility as certified by a licensed medical professional

Types of Handicap Parking Permits

Louisiana issues several types of permits depending on the individual's needs:

  • Permanent Placard: Valid for up to four years and renewable.
  • Temporary Placard: Valid for up to 12 months; issued for short-term injuries or medical conditions.
  • Special License Plate: Issued for permanently disabled individuals who own or lease a vehicle.

How to Apply for a Handicap Placard or Plate

Applicants must complete the Disabled Parking Affidavit (Form DPSMV 1966). This form requires:

  • Certification by a licensed physician, optometrist, or chiropractor
  • Applicant’s personal information
  • Selection of placard or plate

Applications can be submitted:

  • In person at a local Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV)
  • By mail to the address listed on the form

More details on visiting OMV offices are available here.

Fees for Handicap Parking Permits

  • Placards: Free of charge
  • License Plates: Regular registration fees apply unless the applicant qualifies for an exemption

For a full breakdown of OMV-related costs, visit the Louisiana DMV Fee Breakdown.

Renewing and Replacing a Handicap Placard

  • Permanent placards must be renewed every four years. Renewal does not typically require a new medical certification.
  • Temporary placards require a new medical certification upon renewal.
  • Lost or stolen placards can be replaced by submitting a replacement request form and identification at the OMV.

If you’ve lost your license or need an ID update, check out What to Do if You Lose Your Louisiana License.

  • Placards must be clearly displayed when parked in accessible spaces—typically hanging from the rearview mirror.
  • Only the person to whom the placard is issued may use it.
  • Misuse of a handicap placard is considered fraud and may result in fines, revocation of the placard, and other penalties.

Understanding Louisiana’s traffic laws is essential when driving with a disability. See Essential Louisiana Road Rules for New Drivers for key legal insights.

Where Handicap Placards Are Recognized

Louisiana handicap permits are honored in all 50 states under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, always check local signage and parking rules when traveling.

For new residents transferring permits or vehicles, refer to Applying as a New Resident in Louisiana.