Disability parking certificates

The disability parking certificate gives persons with a disability better access to public places and facilities. Minnesota residents who meet at least one of the definitions detailed in state law may apply for a disability parking certificate.

A disability parking certificate allows a vehicle to use designated parking spaces. The certificates are available in temporary, short-term, long-term, permanent and organization.

How to apply

To qualify for a disability parking certificate, you must meet eligibility criteria outlined in Minnesota law.

You can:

Apply online.
Complete the Application for disability parking certificate and submit it
- In person at a deputy registrar office.
- By mail to Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS).

The parking certificate fee is $5 for temporary and short-term certificates. There is no fee for long-term and permanent certificates.

We will review the application and issue a parking certificate once approved.

Sample of a red disability hangtag for a vehicle — Temporary certificates are red.

Frequently asked questions

Using your certificate

Display

Sample disability parking certificate with a blue background and white wheelchair graphic — Short-term, long-term and permanent certificates are blue.

A parking certificate should only be displayed when the vehicle is parked. Driving with the parking certificate hanging from the mirror is illegal and dangerous.

If your disability makes it impractical to hang the parking certificate from the rear-view mirror, it may be placed on the dashboard when parked.

Parking

A vehicle displaying the parking certificate may be parked by or solely for your benefit. You can park in a:

Designated disability parking space
Non-restricted metered parking space without paying the meter fee and adhering to the time limitation unless otherwise posted
Non-metered time limited passenger vehicle space unless otherwise posted.

You cannot park:

In designated no parking spaces
In parking spaces reserved for a specified purpose
Where a local ordinance prohibits parking on a street or highway for the purpose of creating a fire lane or accommodating heavy traffic during rush hours

Some jurisdictions may have specific rules to use your parking certificate. If you have questions, contact the jurisdiction directly.

Looking to apply for an organization disability parking certificate?

Visit organization disability parking certificate if your organization is seeking to apply for or renew a certificate.