Qualified individuals can apply for either or both: one set of license plates and one placard. You need to decide which is best for your individual driving and/or parking needs. When applying for either, an identification card is issued that names you as the qualified individual. When using either the license plates or placard to park, you must have your identification card with you.
License Plates: Handicapped symbol license plates may be issued to only one motor vehicle owned, operated, or leased by a person with a disability or owned by a family member who provides transportation for that person. The vehicle can only park in designated handicapped symbol parking spaces when the individual designated on the identification card is either driving or a passenger in the vehicle. There is no additional charge for the handicapped symbol license plates beyond the normal cost for regular plates. (Handicapped symbol license plates cannot be issued for vehicles owned by, or leased to, companies, organizations or groups). Be certain that you enclose a photocopy of the current (valid) vehicle registration with your application. Failure to submit a legible copy will cause delays in receiving your plates.
Placard: A placard in conjunction with the identification card can be used in any vehicle you ride in, whether or not you own it. The placard authorizes the driver of the vehicle to park in designated handicapped symbol parking spaces when the individual designated on the identification card is either driving or a passenger in the vehicle. Since the placard is transferrable from vehicle to vehicle, only one will be issued to each qualified applicant. There is no charge for the placard.
Identification Card: A "Disabled Person Identification Card" is issued with either the license plates or placard and is valid as long as the license plates and/or placard continue to be renewed. When using either the license plates or placard to park in designated handicapped symbol parking spaces, you must have your identification card with you. It is non-transferable and will be forfeited if presented by any other person. The qualifying individual must be a New Jersey resident. Any abuse of this privilege is cause for revocation of the identification card, placard and/or license plates.