In Montana, the MVD (Montana Motor Vehicle Division) issues special plates and permits to people who have permanent or temporary disabilities. If you are disabled, then you can be eligible for placards and plates that will allow you to park in special places.
Permits and placards
In Montana, disabled persons can be eligible for:
- Permanent placards
- Temporary placards
- Extended temporary placards
- Permanent disability plates
- Permanent disability placards
These plates and placards can be used only by the person to whom they are issued. If you use a permit or placard that is not yours, or if you allow someone else to use a plate or placard belonging to you, then you are in violation of the law.
Obtaining a disability plate or placard
In order to drive in the state of Montana, or to travel through Montana as a person with a disability, you must:
Have your disability verified by a medical doctor or other medical professional.
Show a permit or placard given to you by a medical professional in a state other than Montana.
Disability parking
In Montana, you can apply for a disability parking plate or placard by email, fax, or mail. You will need to provide a Disability Permit/License Plate Application (Form MV5), that is signed and certified by:
- A licensed physician
- A physician’s assistant
- A chiropractor
- A registered nurse or an advanced practice nurse
The placards are free. For license plates, you will pay the same as you would for an ordinary license plate. You can submit your payment to the Montana MVD by means of:
- Email sent to mtDriverHistory@mt.gov.
- Fax at 406-444-3816
- Mail to the Motor Vehicle Division, PO Box 201430, Helena, MT 59620
Renewal
Disability plates and placards are valid for certain periods.
Temporary disability placards are good for six months.
Extended temporary placards are good for two years.
Permanent placards are good for three years, and then they must be renewed.
Handicap plates are good for as long as your vehicle registration. You will renew the plates at the same time as you renew your vehicle registration.
Note: Temporary disability placards cannot be renewed. If you need a temporary permit past the expiry date, then you have to apply for a new one. This is because a temporary disability is just that – temporary.
If you need to renew a disability placard or plate, or if you have lost your placard or plate or had it stolen, then you must complete Form MV5 again, including the section requiring medical certification, and again submit it to the Montana MVD by mail, fax or email.
For more information, you can phone the Montana MVD or email mvd@mt.gov. As a disabled person, you have special rights under the Montana motor vehicle laws, but you must make sure that you apply according to the regulations, and also conduct yourself within the requirements of the law, which are there for your protection.
