Laws and Permits for Disabled Drivers in Rhode Island
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Rhode Island has laws that give special privileges to disabled drivers. If you are disabled, you will be entitled to special plates or license plates that identify you as disabled, and you will be able to park in designated areas that are convenient for you.
Summary of Rhode Island Disabled Driver Laws
In Rhode Island, a disabled parking permit will allow you to use designated parking spaces. You can apply for these plates and permits if you are temporarily or permanently disabled. Temporary plates are valid for up to a year. Long term posters are good for up to three years. Permanent Disability Plates are available for people who may be disabled for more than three years, while Veterans Disability Plates are for veterans whose military service has resulted or may result in a permanent disability.
Visitors
If you are a non-Rhode Island resident but disabled, you do not need to obtain a Rhode Island residence permit. The State of Rhode Island will recognize your permit or license plate outside of the State in the same way as if it were issued in the State of Rhode Island, and you will have the same rights and privileges as any resident of the State.
Application
To get a disability plate in Rhode Island, you must complete a new/renewable disability plate parking application.
You must complete this application on your behalf and have it notarized by the appropriate state authority in Rhode Island. You must also be certified by your doctor, who must be licensed in the state of Rhode Island. You should then send your application to:
Motor Vehicle Division
Disabled Parking Sign Office
600 New London Avenue
Cranston, Rhode Island, 02920
Your application must be processed within four weeks.
Disabled Veterans Posters
To obtain a Disabled Veteran Permit, complete the Rhode Island Disabled Veterans Parking Application and attach a letter from the VA stating that you are disabled. Send it to the address above.
Update
When your permit is due to be renewed, you will be notified by the Rhode Island DMV. All you have to do is fill out the form and send it back, and then the Rhode Island DMV will send you a sticker that you can put on your license plate showing that your permit has been renewed.
Lost or stolen passes and plates
If you lose your plate or it is stolen, you can request a replacement. You will need to complete a sworn statement that your permit has been lost or stolen. You will also be required to present your driver's license or other photo ID in order to replace the plaque.
If the plate is simply damaged, simply bring it to:
Disabled Parking Sign Office
600 New London Avenue
Cranston, Rhode Island, 02920
You will be given a new sign.
