Disabled Driving Laws and Permits in Louisiana

It is important to understand the laws and regulations regarding disabled drivers in your state, even if you are not disabled. Each state has slightly different laws when it comes to disabled driving.

In Louisiana, you are eligible for a disabled parking permit if you have one of the following conditions:

• Lung disease that severely limits your ability to breathe
• Do you need portable oxygen?
• You can't walk 200 feet without resting and needing someone's help.
• Heart disease classified by the American Heart Association as Class III or IV.
• legal blindness
• Any disorder that limits your mobility
• If you require a wheelchair, cane, crutch, or other mobility aid.

If you feel you are suffering from one or more of the following conditions, you may consider applying for either a driver's disability plate or a license plate, both of which will give you special parking rights.

I feel like I have one or more of these conditions. What is the next step?

You will need to complete a Disabled Parking Identification Application. In addition to this form, you must complete a Medical Examiner's Certificate of Impairment (DPSMV Form 1966). Your healthcare provider must complete this form to certify that yes, you suffer from one or more of the conditions above and that you require special parking rights.

Examples of qualified healthcare professionals:

Orthopedist

advanced nurse

Licensed Physician

Ophthalmologist or optometrist

chiropractor

osteopath

Have the person complete and sign the portion of the application that they are required to complete, and then take the form to their local Louisiana DMV.

Please note that in Louisiana, if your doctor confirms that you cannot go to the DMV to file the form in person, you can ask someone to go and file for you. This person will need your color photograph, your medical certificate, and he or she must be able to answer questions about your disability.

Are the posters free?

In some states, posters are given away for free. In Louisiana, posters cost three dollars. You will be given one poster if you are eligible.

Where can I post my plaque once I receive it?

You must show your nameplate from the rearview mirror. You only need to show the sign when your car is parked. Make sure the expiration date is facing the windshield in case a law enforcement officer needs to check your plate. If you don't have a rear view mirror, you can place the decal face up on the dashboard.

Do I have to apply for a disabled driver's plate or license plate? What is the difference?

You go through the same process to apply for a plate or license. However, licenses cost $10 and posters cost three. License plates are valid for two years and permanent plates are valid for four years.

How do I know which type of poster I will receive?

The label you receive will be based on the severity of your condition. You will receive a temporary plaque if your condition is considered minor, which means it will disappear within a year or less. The exception is Louisiana, which offers one year for its temporary posters, rather than six months as many states do. Permanent plates and license plates are available if your condition does not go away for longer or if your condition is irreversible. Permanent plates are valid for four years and license plates are valid for two years.

Where am I allowed to park after receiving a sign and/or license plate?

After you receive your license plate or plate, you can park anywhere you see the International Access Symbol. You may also park up to two hours longer than the time limit (three hours longer within the City of New Orleans), except when parking is prohibited due to traffic, you are parked in a fire lane, your vehicle is a hazard to road traffic. You may never park in areas marked "no parking at all times" or in bus or loading areas.

Can I lend my poster to a friend even if that friend has an obvious disability?

No, you can't. Your plate should be yours alone. Giving a poster to another person is considered a violation and may result in a fine of several hundred dollars.

What if I'm a disabled veteran?

If you are a disabled veteran, you must submit to the Louisiana DMV office a copy of your vehicle registration, an affidavit from the Department of Veterans Affairs stating that you are eligible for a disabled driver's license plate, and payment of a transaction fee.