Renewing your Arizona handicap placard is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process, providing you with all the necessary information and requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free renewal.
Why Renew Your Arizona Handicap Placard?
Renewing your Arizona handicap placard is crucial to ensure that you continue to have access to parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities. The Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles (MVD) issues handicap placards to individuals who have a permanent or temporary disability that affects their mobility. The placard allows you to park in designated handicap parking spaces, which are usually closer to entrances and exits of buildings.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
To renew your Arizona handicap placard, you will need to gather the following documents:
- A completed and signed Application for Disability Placard or Plate (Form 40-0112)
- A statement from a licensed physician or a certified nurse practitioner, which must be dated within the last 12 months
- Proof of Arizona residency
- Proof of identity
You can download the application form from the Arizona MVD website or pick one up from your local MVD office.
Understanding the Types of Handicap Placards
Before you begin the renewal process, it's essential to understand the types of handicap placards available in Arizona. There are two types of placards:
- Permanent Placard: Issued to individuals with a permanent disability that affects their mobility.
- Temporary Placard: Issued to individuals with a temporary disability that affects their mobility.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can fill out the application form. Make sure to complete all the sections accurately and sign the form. If you are renewing a permanent placard, you will not need to provide a new statement from a licensed physician or certified nurse practitioner. However, if you are renewing a temporary placard, you will need to provide a new statement.
What to Include in the Physician's Statement
The physician's statement must include the following information:
- A description of your disability
- The nature and extent of your disability
- The expected duration of your disability
- A statement indicating whether your disability is permanent or temporary
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can submit your application by mail or in person at your local MVD office. If you are submitting your application by mail, make sure to include all the required documents and a photocopy of your current placard. If you are submitting your application in person, you will need to bring all the required documents and your current placard.
Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee
The renewal fee for an Arizona handicap placard is $4. You can pay the fee by check, money order, or credit card. If you are submitting your application by mail, make sure to include a check or money order for the correct amount. If you are submitting your application in person, you can pay the fee with a credit card or cash.
Step 5: Receive Your New Placard
Once your application is approved, you will receive a new handicap placard in the mail. Make sure to carry the new placard with you at all times when driving and parking in designated handicap parking spaces.
By following these easy steps, you can renew your Arizona handicap placard and continue to have access to parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities. Remember to apply for a new placard before your current one expires to avoid any inconvenience.
What's Next?
We hope this article has provided you with all the necessary information and requirements to renew your Arizona handicap placard. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. Share this article with your friends and family who may be going through the same process.
How often do I need to renew my Arizona handicap placard?
+Permanent placards need to be renewed every 5 years, while temporary placards need to be renewed every 6-12 months, depending on the duration of your disability.
Can I apply for a handicap placard online?
+No, you cannot apply for a handicap placard online. You need to submit your application by mail or in person at your local MVD office.
How long does it take to process a handicap placard application?
+The processing time for a handicap placard application can take up to 2-3 weeks. However, this may vary depending on the workload of the MVD office.