Disabled Driver Laws and Permits in Missouri

Even if you are not a disabled driver, it is important to familiarize yourself with the disabled driver laws in your state. Missouri, like all other states, has very specific rules for disabled drivers.

How do I know if I am eligible for a Missouri disabled license plate or plate?

If you have one or more of the following conditions, you may be eligible for special parking privileges:

• Inability to walk 50 feet without rest and assistance.

• If you have a lung disease that limits your ability to breathe

• If you have a neurological, arthritic, or orthopedic condition that limits your mobility

• If you need portable oxygen

• If you have a heart condition classified by the American Heart Association as class III or IV.

• If you need a wheelchair, prosthesis, crutch, cane or other assistive device

If you have one or more of these conditions, then you are likely eligible for temporary or permanent parking.

What is the difference between a permanent plaque and a temporary one?

If you have a disability that is expected to last no more than 180 days, you will be eligible for a temporary plaque. Permanent plates are for people with disabilities that will last more than 180 days or the rest of your life. Temporary posters cost $XNUMX, while permanent ones are free.

How do I apply for a plaque in Missouri?

The first step is to complete the Application for a Disability Card (Form 2769). The second part of the application, Physician's Statement of Disability Card (Form 1776), requires you to visit a doctor and ask him or her to confirm that you have a disability that limits your mobility. To complete this second form, you must visit a physician, physician assistant, optometrist, ophthalmologist, osteopath, chiropractor, or nurse practitioner. After you complete these two forms, mail them along with the appropriate fee (two dollars if you are applying for a temporary plate) and mail them to:

Automobile Bureau

Mailbox 598

Jefferson City, MO 65105-0598

Or deliver them in person to any Missouri licensed office.

How do I update my plate and/or license plate?

To renew a permanent Missouri plate, you may submit the receipt from the original application. If you do not have a receipt, you will need to fill out the original form again along with a doctor's statement that you have a disability that limits your mobility. In order to renew the temporary plate, you must reapply, meaning you must complete both the first form and the second form, which requires a doctor's review.

Please note that your permanent badge can be renewed free of charge, but will expire on September 30th of the fourth year it was issued. Also, in Missouri, if you're over 75 and have a permanent plaque, you won't need a doctor's confirmation to get a renewal plaque.

Is there a specific way I have to place my plate in my vehicle?

Yes. As in all states, you must hang your sign on your rearview mirror. If your car does not have a rearview mirror, you can place a decal on the dashboard with the expiration date facing the windshield. You must ensure that the law enforcement officer can read the sign if he or she needs to. Also, please understand that you should never drive with a sign hanging on your rearview mirror. This is dangerous and may obscure your view while driving. You only need to show your sign while you are parked in the disabled parking lot.

Where can I and where can I not park with a sign?

Both temporary and permanent plates allow you to park anywhere you see the International Access Symbol. You may not park in areas marked "no parking at all times" or in loading or bus areas.

Can I lend my poster to a friend or family member if that person has an obvious disability?

No. Your plate must remain with you. It is considered an abuse of your parking rights if you lend your poster to anyone. Also, please note that you do not have to be the driver of the vehicle to use the plate, but you must be in the vehicle as a passenger in order to qualify for a disabled driver's parking license.

I work for an agency that transports people with disabilities. Am I eligible for a badge?

Yes. In this case, you will complete the same two forms as when applying for an individual plate. However, you must also provide a statement on company letterhead (signed by an agency employee) that your agency transports people with disabilities.