Special Licenses

Massachusetts Handicap Placard and Plate Application

3 min read

Massachusetts offers disability placards and license plates to residents with qualifying medical conditions. These credentials allow individuals to park in designated accessible parking spaces and receive certain exemptions. Whether applying for the first time or renewing an existing placard, it’s important to follow the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) process carefully.

Types of Disability Credentials

The Massachusetts RMV issues two main types of disability parking credentials:

Temporary Placard: Valid for up to 24 months for conditions expected to improve.
Permanent Placard: Valid for 5 years for long-term or permanent conditions.
Disability License Plate: Available for individuals with a permanent disability who own a vehicle.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must be a Massachusetts resident with a documented medical condition that severely limits mobility, such as:

Inability to walk 200 feet without rest
Severe cardiac, pulmonary, or neurological conditions
Legal blindness (placard only)
Requirement of assistive devices such as a wheelchair, cane, or walker

A healthcare provider must certify the disability on the application form.

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete the Application

Use the official RMV application for disability parking (Form T20065). Fill out the applicant’s information and have a licensed medical professional complete and sign the medical certification section.

Step 2: Submit the Application

You can submit the completed form by:

Mail: Send to Medical Affairs, PO Box 55889, Boston, MA 02205
In-person: Visit an RMV Service Center (appointments may be required)
Fax: (857) 368-0018 for Medical Affairs

There is no fee for a placard. If applying for a disability license plate, standard registration fees apply.

Renewal and Replacement

Permanent placards are automatically renewed every 5 years and mailed to the address on file.
Temporary placards require a new application and medical certification upon expiration.
Lost or stolen placards can be replaced by submitting a replacement request form to Medical Affairs.

For address changes, update your RMV records before your renewal date. Learn how at Updating Your Address with the Massachusetts RMV.

Usage Rules

A disability placard or plate allows the holder to:

Park in marked accessible spaces
Park at meters for free and beyond time limits (local rules may vary)

Misuse, such as using someone else’s placard, may lead to fines, confiscation, or criminal charges. Always carry the placard ID card when using the placard.

Additional Resources

Those applying or renewing may also benefit from related resources:

Visit the official Massachusetts RMV Disability Parking page for the most current requirements and form access.