How do i get a handicap placard in new mexico

Driving with a disability poses many challenges, regardless of whether it’s a temporary or permanent condition. Each state issues disability placards and license plates to eligible drivers, allowing them to use accessible parking spots, among other parking benefits. 

If you are part of the 28% of New Mexicans with a disability, you may be eligible to apply. However, the regulations for these placards and license plates differ by state, so knowing the rules for your home state will help you avoid penalties.

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How to get a disabled parking placard or plate in New Mexico

To park in a disabled space in New Mexico without incurring penalties, you must have one of the following: 

• Permanent handicap placard—expires four years from the date of issue

• Temporary handicap placard—valid up to one year based on a physician’s statement

The International Symbol of Access is printed on both types of placards. Typically, it is a blue-and-whitestick figure in a wheelchair, but it may appear in other colors. 

However, individuals are not required to be wheelchair-bound to be eligible for a handicap placard in New Mexico. Below is a list of conditions that qualify.

Who’s eligible for a disabled parking placard? (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

You are eligible for a placard if you meet one or more of the following requirements:

• You cannot walk 100 feet without stopping to rest

• You cannot walk without the use of an assistive device—e.g., a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, or wheelchair

• You are restricted by lung disease—your respiratory volume when exhaling for 1 second is less than 1 liter

• You need to use portable oxygen

• You have a severe cardiac condition

• You are severely limited when walking due to an arthritic, neurologic, or orthopedic condition and cannot walk up or down more than 10 stairs

However, an amputee who does not meet any of the conditions listed above will not be approved for a handicapped plate or placard.

An example of a temporary condition would be if you broke your leg in an accident and need to use a wheelchair until you recover. In this case, you can apply for a temporary handicap parking placard that's valid for up to one year based on a physician’s statement.

An example of a permanent condition is if you have severe asthma and you are not able to walk across a parking lot without difficulties. You can then apply for a permanent handicap parking placard, which will be valid for four years. A physician’s statement is still required if you are a new applicant but is not required for renewals.

Individuals eligible for a permanent handicap parking placard can also apply for a handicap parking license plate. However, this limits use to one vehicle. Getting the placard would be more practical if you have access to multiple vehicles.

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How to apply

You’ll need to fill out the

Application for Certificate of Eligibility for Parking Placard

You’ll need to provide your identifying information, including your name, Social Security number, date of birth, address, and contact information. You will also need to indicate what you are applying for: 

• An original handicap parking placard

• Renewal for a handicap parking placard (permanent placards only)

• Replacement for a handicap parking placard

The remaining sections will depend on which type of application you are submitting.

For original handicap parking placards, a licensed physician will need to fill in section C (physician’s information) and section D (physician medical statement and certification) on the form. They must attest to the type of disability, indicate if it is permanent or temporary, and sign the form. 

Once the form is complete, the original copy may be taken to any New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division—photocopies will not be accepted. You can instead mail it to:

New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division

1100 South St. Francis Drive

Santa Fe, NM 87505

There is no fee for a disability placard in New Mexico,

Renewing a disabled parking plate

Only the permanent handicap parking placard and plate can be renewed. If you renew your placard before the expiration date, you do not need a doctor’s signature—just bring your completed form and provide your placard. 

However, if your placard has expired, you will need to reapply and ask your doctor to recertify your disability.

Key Takeaway To apply for a handicap parking placard in New Mexico, you’ll need a licensed medical professional to certify that you have an eligible mobility or vision disability. 

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Guidelines for veterans with disabilities

If you are a veteran with disabilities in New Mexico, you will need to fill out the

Application for Military Service Plate

There is no fee for a veteran plate.

Key Takeaway Disabled veterans in New Mexico can apply for the Disabled Veteran plate with certification from the VA regarding their service-connected disability.

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The best car insurance for military families and veterans

How to find savings on car insurance in New Mexico

Day-to-day life with a disability can be taxing, physically and financially. But there are ways to reduce your cost of living—like saving on car-related expenses. For starters, the

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FAQs

Can I renew my handicap placard online in New Mexico?

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No—if you need to renew your permanent handicap placard, it needs to be done in person or by mail.

How much does a handicap placard cost in New Mexico?

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The handicap parking placard has no fee.

Tiffany is an experienced tech, insurance, and auto writer who loves to stay on top of the latest gadget trends. In her spare time, she's either out and about trying new food spots or starting new projects at home. Other interests include petting all the puppies that pass by, and hunting for weird and rare plants. Her dream car is a yellow Mini Cooper.

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