Who can use a handicap placard or license plate in NC? What the law says
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- North Carolina issues $5 placards valid for five years with physician certification.
- Unlawful use of handicap placards may result in fines nearing $300 and towing.
- Only the certified individual may use disability placards or license plates.
In North Carolina, handicap placards and specialty license plates allow those with mobility impairments to parktheir vehicles closer to a destination.
In 2016, the state redesigned its placards to help law enforcement more easily spot expired ones. The new versions are made of durable plastic, replacing the older cardboard design that deteriorated over time, The Charlotte Observer reported.
The crackdown means those who choose to park in handicap spaces without the appropriate credentials could face hefty fines, according to North Carolina law.
Here’s what to know about who can legally use a handicap placard, whether you can use someone else’s placard and how to get them in North Carolina.
Who can legally use a handicap placard in NC?
According to state law, the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) issues disability placards to those who are:
- Unable to walk without assistance
- Have mobility impairments caused by lung disease, defective vision or cardiac, arthritic, neurological or orthopedic conditions
Only the person who receives a placard or plate can use it, according to NCDMV. Placards must be displayed on the rearview mirror, along with updated license plates on the back of the vehicle.
What is the penalty for using an unauthorized placard or plate in NC?
Those who attempt to use handicap placards or plates not issued by the state can be fined up to $100 and have to pay court costs of $191, meaning those who violate the law can face fees totaling nearly $300, Master Trooper Christopher Casey of the N.C. State Highway Patrol told The Observer.
“This violation is considered a non-moving violation in North Carolina, and no points are assessed on a driver’s license for this type of offense,” Casey said.
Law enforcement can also order a vehicle to be towed for violating the law, according to NCDMV.
How to get a handicap placard in NC
Those looking to apply for handicap placards in North Carolina must:
- Fill out an Application for Disability License Placard and have it signed by a physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner.
- Provide documentation verifying your identity.
Handicap placards cost $5 and are valid for five years, and must be certified by a physician every five years unless you are 80 or older at the time of renewal.
Permanent disability placard holders that do not require medical recertification can be renewed online.
Temporary placards for $5 can also be obtained by filling out the placard application and verifying your identity, according to NCDMV. These placards are valid for up to six months and are not renewable.
How to get a handicap license plate in NC
Those looking to apply for handicap placards in North Carolina must:
- Fill out an Application for Disability License Plate and have it signed by a physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner.
- Provide documentation verifying your identity.
Handicap license plates cost $36 and must be renewed by sticker annually and must be recertified every five years when certification is made by a parent or guardian, according to NCDMV.
This story was originally published August 13, 2025 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Who can use a handicap placard or license plate in NC? What the law says."
