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Disability Parking in Raleigh, North Carolina:
Everything You Need to Know

• Raleigh, NC Disability Parking Laws

  • Qualifying conditions include inability to walk 200 feet without stopping, inability to walk without assistive devices, severe lung or cardiac conditions, severe limitation in walking due to arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition, or total blindness or severe vision defect.
  • A licensed healthcare practitioner must certify your condition on Form MVR-37A.
  • Disability placards are valid for 5 years and require medical recertification at renewal.
  • Temporary disability placards are valid for 6 months.
  • Total and permanent disability placards are valid for 5 years and do not require medical recertification at renewal.
  • Disability license plates are renewed annually but do not require medical recertification, except that guardians/parents must recertify every 5 years.
  • Illegally parking in handicapped spaces results in fines of $100 to $250.
  • Placards are portable and must hang from the rearview mirror or be placed on the driver's side dashboard.
  • Placard registration card must remain with the placard while in use.
  • Each applicant may receive up to 2 placards.
  • Medical recertification is not required for persons 80 years of age or older, or if deemed permanently disabled.

• Documents You'll Need

  To apply for, replace, or renew a Raleigh, NC disability parking placard or license plates, here's what you need:

  New Permanent or Temporary Placard

  To apply for a new disability parking placard in Raleigh, NC, you'll need:

  • Form MVR-37A, completed and signed by applicant and medical provider
  • If applying in person: identification such as driver's license, state ID, birth certificate, or Social Security card

  New Disability License Plates

  • Form MVR-37 (Application for Handicap Driver Registration Plate), completed and signed by medical provider
  • Vehicle must be registered to person with disability
  • Apply at NCDMV license plate agency

  Veteran Exemption

  Disabled veterans with a 100% disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs may qualify for Disabled Veteran License Plates. Submit:

  • Documentation of 100% disability rating from VA
  • Proof of residency
  • Completed Form MVR-33A (Application for Military Plate)

  Online Doctor's Certification

  If applying through a telehealth service like ParkingMD, you can get your evaluation done completely online. You can skip the DMV wait in Raleigh, NC by completing the medical certification step from home.

  • You'll receive a signed and dated Form MVR-37A by email within 24-48 hours.
  • You can print and submit it to a Raleigh, North Carolina DMV office or mail it to the following address:

  NC DMV Driver License Office (Spring Forest Rd)

  2431 Spring Forest Rd, Suite 101, Raleigh, NC 27615, United States

  NC DMV Driver License Office (Avent Ferry Rd)

  3231 Avent Ferry Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606, United States

  ParkingMD provides the medical evaluation and certification only. A North Carolina DMV office in Raleigh reviews the application and issues the physical permit in Raleigh.

  Lost or Stolen Placard Replacement

  • Complete new Form MVR-37A
  • Damaged placards replaced at no charge

• Permanent Placards

  • Valid for 5 years.
  • Renewal requires medical recertification on Form MVR-37A.
  • May renew up to 90 days prior to expiration.

  Permanent placard holders may also qualify for the America the Beautiful Access Pass — a free lifetime pass for entry to over 2,000 national parks and federal recreation sites.

  Temporary Placards

  • Valid for 6 months.
  • Cannot be renewed. Must apply for a new placard with new medical certification if needed beyond expiration.

  Total and Permanent Disability Placards

  • Valid for 5 years.
  • Do not require medical recertification at renewal.
  • May renew up to 90 days prior to expiration.

  Turnaround Time

  Applications can be processed the same day at NCDMV license plate agencies. Mail-in applications take 3-4 weeks to receive placard.

• Benefits of Having a Handicap Placard

  Driver's License Exemption for In-Person Submission

  Individuals with severe mobility limitations may qualify for an ID exemption, so a caregiver can submit forms on their behalf.

  Extended Time Limits

  In certain areas, you may be allowed to park beyond posted time limits without penalties (depending on local ordinances).

  Convenience and Safety

  Reduces the distance and difficulty of walking in public spaces, especially important for individuals with limited mobility, chronic illness, or assistive devices.

  No Meter Payment in Some Cities

  Some municipalities waive metered parking fees for permit holders. Always check posted signs and local rules.