What a disability license plate or placard does in Arizona
A disability license plate or placard lets you park in designated accessible spaces without paying parking fees and without time limits. In Arizona, the Department of Transportation (ADOT) issues these through a straightforward process that takes a few weeks. You do not need to be a resident — visitors can get a temporary placard — but you do need medical documentation that a doctor or other licensed provider has signed.
The plate or placard is not a permit to park anywhere. It only grants access to spaces marked with the wheelchair symbol and reserved for people with disabilities. Parking in those spaces without a valid plate or placard can result in a citation and fine.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona issues both permanent and temporary disability plates and placards through ADOT, and you choose which one fits your situation.
- You must have a signed medical certification from a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or optometrist stating you have a may have access to disability.
- The application form is DES 14 for permanent plates or placards, and you submit it by mail or in person at an ADOT office.
- Processing takes roughly two to four weeks, and the plate or placard is valid for the term your doctor certifies — usually four years for permanent plates.
- Temporary placards for visitors last 30 days and do not require residency, making them useful if you are traveling to Arizona.
Permanent plates versus temporary placards
Arizona offers two main options. A permanent disability license plate is a standard plate that replaces your regular plate and stays with your vehicle. A permanent disability placard hangs from your rearview mirror and can move between vehicles, which is useful if you drive different cars or share a vehicle. Both give you the same parking rights.
If you are visiting Arizona temporarily, you can get a temporary disability placard valid for 30 days. You do not have to be an Arizona resident to get one. The temporary placard requires the same medical certification but processes faster — usually within a few days if you apply in person at an ADOT office.
Choose a permanent plate if you own the vehicle and want a solution that stays with it. Choose a permanent placard if you drive multiple vehicles, rent, or want the option to move it. Choose a temporary placard if you are in Arizona for less than a month.
Medical certification requirements
Your application must include a signed statement from a licensed provider confirming you have a may have access to disability. In Arizona, the provider can be a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or optometrist. The certification does not need to be on a specific form — a letter from your doctor's office on their letterhead with their signature and license number is sufficient.
The disability must be one that substantially limits your ability to walk or significantly limits your ability to move about. Examples include mobility impairments, severe arthritis, heart or lung disease, cancer, and visual impairments. The provider must state how long the condition is expected to last — this becomes the validity period of your plate or placard, typically four years for permanent plates.
If you do not have a current relationship with a provider, you will need to schedule an appointment before you can apply. Some community health centers and urgent care clinics can provide the certification if your regular doctor is unavailable.
How to apply for a permanent plate or placard
Download or request Form DES 14 from the ADOT website or any ADOT office. Fill in your personal information, vehicle details, and whether you want a plate or placard. Attach your medical certification and a copy of your driver's license or state ID. If you are applying for a plate, you will also need your vehicle registration.
Submit the completed form and documents by mail to the address listed on the form, or bring them in person to any ADOT office. If you mail it, include a check or money order for the fee — permanent plates cost the same as a standard plate renewal, and permanent placards have a separate fee that varies. Check the ADOT website for current fees, as they change periodically.
ADOT will mail your plate or placard to the address you provide. Processing typically takes two to four weeks. If you need it sooner, applying in person at an ADOT office may speed the process, though staff cannot may provide immediate issuance.
How to apply for a temporary placard as a visitor
If you are visiting Arizona and need a temporary placard, go to any ADOT office with your medical certification, driver's license or state ID, and a completed DES 14 form. You do not need an Arizona driver's license or vehicle registration. Staff can issue the placard on the spot or within a day or two, depending on the office's workload.
The temporary placard is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. If you are staying longer and need to extend it, you can apply for a permanent placard using the same process as Arizona residents, though you will need to provide an Arizona address — this can be a hotel, a friend's address, or a temporary residence.
Where to find ADOT offices and submit your application
ADOT has multiple offices across Arizona. The main office is in Phoenix, but you can find a full list of locations on the ADOT website under "Office Locations." Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Some larger offices offer extended hours or Saturday appointments.
You can also mail your application to the address on Form DES 14. Include all required documents and payment. Mailing takes longer than in-person application but works if you cannot visit an office. If you mail your application, keep a copy for your records and consider sending it certified mail so you have proof of delivery.
Renewing or replacing your plate or placard
Permanent plates and placards expire on the date your medical certification expires, which your doctor sets when they sign the form — usually four years from the date of issue. Before expiration, you will need to renew with a new medical certification from your provider. Submit a new DES 14 form with the updated certification to ADOT at least 30 days before your current plate or placard expires.
If your plate or placard is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact ADOT to request a replacement. You will need to pay a replacement fee and provide proof of the loss or damage. Replacement processing is usually faster than an initial application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an out-of-state disability plate or placard in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona honors disability plates and placards issued by other states. You can park in accessible spaces in Arizona using your home state's plate or placard without getting an Arizona one. However, if you become an Arizona resident or plan to stay longer than a few months, getting an Arizona plate or placard is recommended.
What happens if someone else uses my disability plate or placard?
Misuse of a disability plate or placard is illegal in Arizona. If your plate or placard is used by someone not may have access to to it, report it to ADOT or local law enforcement. If your placard is lost or stolen, contact ADOT immediately to request a replacement and prevent misuse.
Do I have to renew my plate or placard every year?
No. Permanent plates and placards are valid for the full term your doctor certifies, typically four years. You only renew when that term expires or if your medical condition changes. Standard vehicle registration renewal does not affect your disability plate.
Can I get a disability plate if I have a temporary or short-term disability?
Yes, if your doctor certifies that the disability will last at least six months. Your plate or placard will be valid only for the period your doctor states. Once that period ends, you can renew if the condition continues or let it expire if you no longer need it.
What if my doctor will not provide the medical certification?
Your doctor must believe you have a may have access to disability to provide the certification. If your current provider will not sign, you can seek a second opinion from another licensed provider. Community health centers, urgent care clinics, and disability specialists can also provide the certification if your regular doctor is unavailable.