Apply with the DMV's Application for Disabled Person Placard or Plates (REG 195). A licensed physician, surgeon, chiropractor, optometrist, physician assistant, nurse practitioner or certified nurse midwife who knows the condition completes and signs the medical provider's certification section. New or replacement placards can now be ordered online.
Which placard
- Permanent: valid two years, expiring June 30 of every odd-numbered year (next: June 30, 2027). Renewing is free, and a permanent placard doesn't need the medical provider to re-certify.
- Temporary: up to 180 days, or the date the medical provider notes, whichever is shorter; it has a fee and can't be renewed more than six times in a row.
- Travel: for California residents who already have a permanent placard or plates.
Where it lets you park
- Spaces with the wheelchair symbol, and next to a blue curb.
- Next to a green (limited-time) curb for as long as you wish.
- On-street metered spaces at no charge.
- Areas that require a resident or merchant permit.
The DMV adds that service stations must refuel a disabled person's vehicle at self-service prices, unless the station has only one employee on duty.
Do it with PJ
The calls, the forms, the logins and the errands in between: PJ does the legwork with your family in Solana Beach, Encinitas, Cardiff and Del Mar. He doesn't give medical, legal or benefits advice; the programs decide. Plans start as low as $25.
More: the care ladder · every senior waitlist · senior benefits checkup.
Sources: California DMV, disabled person parking placards and plates. Checked October 6, 2026.
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Questions people ask
How do I get a disabled parking placard in California?
Fill out the DMV's REG 195 and have a licensed medical provider who knows the condition sign the certification section. Apply online, by mail or at a DMV office.
Does a California disabled placard cost anything to renew?
No. The DMV says renewing a disabled person parking placard is free; a permanent placard is valid two years and expires June 30 of odd-numbered years.
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