Getting a Delaware ADA placard or disabled license plate starts with knowing the rules. The Delaware ADA placard and disabled person license plate application rules cover who qualifies, how to apply, and how to use them legally. As of 2026, Delaware offers both temporary and permanent permits, each with specific requirements.
The process is straightforward if you have the right documentation. Delaware follows ADA guidelines but adds its own conditions, like medical certification and display rules.
Quick Answer
Delaware ADA placard and disabled person license plate application rules require medical certification. Permanent placards last 5 years. Temporary placards last up to 6 months.
You must apply through the Delaware DMV.
Do You Qualify for a Delaware ADA Placard or Disabled Plate?
You qualify if a licensed medical professional certifies a mobility impairment. This includes conditions that limit walking, require assistive devices, or involve severe respiratory or cardiac issues.
Delaware also offers disabled veteran plates for those with service-connected disabilities. These require additional proof from the Veterans Administration.
Delaware’s Two Types of Disability Parking Permits
Delaware issues two main types of permits. Permanent placards are blue and valid for 5 years. Temporary placards are red and valid for up to 6 months.
License plates are another option for those who prefer a permanent solution. These are attached to your vehicle and don’t need to be moved between cars.
Permanent vs. Temporary: Which One Fits Your Situation?
Choose a permanent placard if your disability is long-term or permanent. This is ideal for conditions like paralysis, severe arthritis, or chronic lung disease.
A temporary placard works for short-term needs. This includes recovery from surgery, a broken leg, or other temporary mobility issues. You can’t renew a temporary placard, you must reapply with updated medical certification.
Disabled Veteran Plates: Separate Rules and Benefits
Disabled veteran plates are for veterans with a service-connected disability. You’ll need certification from the VA along with your DMV application.
These plates offer the same parking benefits as regular disabled plates. They also often include special designs or insignias to honor your service. Check with the Delaware DMV for the latest designs and requirements.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Delaware ADA Placard
Start by getting Form MV47 from the Delaware DMV website or any DMV office. This is the medical certification form your doctor must complete.
Fill out your section of the form with your name, address, and driver’s license number. Your doctor will certify your disability and specify if it’s permanent or temporary.
Submit the completed form in person at a DMV office or by mail. If mailing, send it to the DMV’s main office in Dover. Processing typically takes 10 to 14 business days.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Delaware Disabled License Plate
You’ll need the same medical certification as the placard. But you’ll also need your vehicle’s title and registration.
Complete the application for disabled plates, which is separate from the placard form. You can find this on the DMV site or at any office.
Submit the application along with your vehicle documents. There’s no additional fee for the disabled plate itself, but you’ll pay standard registration fees.
The Medical Certification (Form MV47) Explained
Form MV47 is the key to your application. It must be completed by a licensed physician, physician’s assistant, or advanced practice nurse.
The form asks for your disability type and whether it’s permanent or temporary. Your doctor must sign and date it. Incomplete forms are the top reason for application denials.
Where and How to Submit Your Application
Delaware DMV has offices in Dover, Wilmington, Georgetown, and other locations. You can submit applications in person or by mail.
For mail-in applications, send everything to:
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 698
Dover, DE 19903
In-person submissions often get processed faster. Check office hours before visiting, as some locations require appointments.
Processing Time, Fees, and What to Expect After Applying
Standard processing takes 10 to 14 business days. You’ll receive your placard or plates by mail if approved.
Placards are free. Disabled plates require standard registration fees, which vary by vehicle type and weight.
If your application is denied, the DMV will notify you by mail. The most common reasons are incomplete medical certification or missing vehicle documents.
How to Renew or Replace a Lost/Damaged Permit
Permanent placards expire after 5 years. You’ll need a new medical certification to renew, even if your condition hasn’t changed.
For lost or damaged placards, submit a replacement request to the DMV. There’s no fee for the first replacement, but subsequent requests may incur charges.
Disabled plates follow your vehicle’s registration renewal cycle. Report damaged plates immediately to avoid issues during traffic stops.
Proper Use: Display Rules and Where You Can Park
Your placard must hang from the rearview mirror when parked. When driving, store it out of view to avoid obstructing your vision.
You can park in any space marked with the International Symbol of Access. This includes designated spots in public lots, private properties with public access, and on-street metered spaces.
Never lend your placard to others. Misuse can result in fines up to $500 and revocation of your permit.
Common Mistakes That Get Applications Denied
The most frequent issue is an incomplete Form MV47. Ensure your doctor fills out every required field and signs it.
Submitting expired medical certification is another common problem. Temporary placards can’t be renewed, you must reapply with fresh documentation.
Using a placard from another state won’t work in Delaware. Each state has its own rules and forms.
Penalties for Misuse and How to Avoid Them
Using someone else’s placard is illegal. Fines start at $250 for first offenses and increase for repeat violations.
Parking in ADA spaces without a valid permit can result in towing. Always display your placard correctly when using designated spots.
Report lost placards immediately. If someone else uses your lost permit, you could be held responsible.
Delaware’s ADA Parking Laws: What’s Legal and What’s Not
Delaware follows federal ADA guidelines but adds state-specific rules. Title 21, Chapter 41 outlines all requirements.
You can’t park in spaces marked for specific disabilities unless your permit matches. For example, a wheelchair symbol space requires a placard for wheelchair users.
Local municipalities may have additional restrictions. Always check signs for specific rules in the area you’re parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Delaware disability placard?
Processing typically takes 10 to 14 business days. In-person applications may be faster. You’ll receive your placard by mail once approved.
Can I use my placard in another state?
Yes, Delaware placards are recognized in all states. However, you must follow the parking laws of the state you’re visiting.
What’s the difference between a placard and a disabled plate?
A placard is portable and can be used in any vehicle you’re in. A disabled plate is attached to one specific vehicle.
Can I get both a placard and a disabled plate?
Yes, you can have one placard and one disabled plate. This gives you flexibility to use either depending on the vehicle.
What happens if my placard is stolen?
Report it to the police and the DMV immediately. You’ll need to submit a replacement request with a police report.
Do disabled veterans get special plates?
Yes, Delaware offers special disabled veteran plates. These require VA certification in addition to the standard DMV application.
