Struggling to Park Far Far Away? Your Guide to Illinois Handicap Plates (and Avoiding Parking Tickets)
Let's face it, finding a good parking spot can feel like winning the lottery. But for some folks, it's a whole different ball game (and by ball game, we mean navigating a parking lot with limited mobility). If you're tired of circling the lot like a lost shark, or if those pesky parking tickets are draining your wallet faster than a toddler with a juice box, then it might be time to consider handicap plates.
But wait! Don't just slap a pirate flag on your car and declare yourself captain of the handicapped zone. There are a few hoops to jump through (figuratively, because jumping through hoops might be the exact reason you need these plates).
 |
| How To Get Handicap Plates In Illinois |
Who qualifies?
The good news is, Illinois is pretty inclusive when it comes to handicap plates. If you have any of these conditions and it impacts your ability to get around, then you might be eligible:
- The "I-Walk-Like-A-T-Rex" Club: Can't walk 200 feet without needing a breather? Join the club (and get some handicap plates)!
- Short on Breath and Long on Needing a Parking Spot: If you require a portable oxygen tank to, you know, breathe, then this one's for you.
- The "My-Lungs-Are- rebelling" Rebellion: Various lung diseases and respiratory problems can qualify you for these special plates.
- Bun in the Oven and Trouble Parkin' the Coven: Pregnant with complications that make getting around a nightmare? Illinois says hop in the carpool lane (of handicap parking that is).
- And Much More! This isn't an exhaustive list, so if you have a condition that limits your mobility, talk to your doctor.
Okay, I'm In! Now What?
Tip: Break long posts into short reading sessions.
Here's the not-so-fun part: paperwork. But fear not, it's not rocket science! You'll need to fill out a form called the Persons with Disabilities Certification for Parking Placard/License Plates (Form VSD 62). Don't worry, it's not a novel, and you can find it at your nearest Secretary of State office or [print it online](link to Illinois Secretary of State handicap placard form).
Doctor, Doctor, Give Me the Stamp!
Once you have the form, get your doctor to fill out the medical certification part. Think of them as your official stamp of parking-privilege approval!
How Much is This Gonna Cost Me?
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
Here's the good news: placards are free! However, if you're going for the fancy handicap plates (because, let's face it, they are pretty snazzy), there's a one-time fee of $196 which covers title and registration fees.
Alright, Alright, Alright! How Do I Get This Magical Parking Pass?
You have two options, my friend:
Channel Your Inner Superhero and Visit the Secretary of State Office: Head to your local Secretary of State office with your completed form, doctor's certification, and any required fees. Be prepared to unleash your inner hero and wait in line, because bureaucracy can be its own villain sometimes.
Become a Master of the Mail: You can also mail everything in. But remember, with great mail-in power comes great responsibility (like making sure you have the right postage and everything is filled out correctly).
Bonus Tip: Don't forget to bring your driver's license! They might need to see some ID before they grant you parking paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions (because we know you have them!)
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
How to display the placard/plate?
- Placards should be hung from the rearview mirror when the vehicle is parked in a designated accessible parking space.
- Plates speak for themselves, but make sure they're properly registered and displayed on your vehicle.
How long is a placard valid?
- Permanent placards are valid for 4 years.
- Temporary placards need to be renewed every 6 months.
How to renew a placard/plate?
Renewals can be done by mail or in person before the expiration date.
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
How to replace a lost or stolen placard/plate?
Contact your local Secretary of State office for a replacement. There may be a fee involved.
Can just anyone use my placard/plate?
Absolutely not! Placards and plates are for the designated person only. Misusing them can lead to fines and even the revocation
 |
