Illinois secretary of state handicapped parking application

Disability Parking Placard Renewal FAQs Persons with Disabilities

What is the difference between the electronic application process and the paper application process?
The new electronic process is quicker and more convenient for the placard holder. He/she can electronically review the information on file with the Secretary of Sate's Office and add any other required information. Once the applicant is finished and selects the "submit" button, the renewal application is stored in the system until the applicant's medical professional signs in and certifies the diagnosis (which will also be done online at the doctor's office). The medical professional then electronically submits the application to the Secretary of State's Office for review and issuance of a new placard.

There are no procedureal changes to the paper application process. The applicant must bring the paper application to their medical processional. When the application is completed, the applicant or the medical professional must then mail it to the Secretary of State's Office using the U.S. Postal Service.

What are the benefits of using the electronic application process?
Applicants and medical professionals will not have to keep track of the paper application during the renewal process. Once the application is completed and electronically submitted to the Secretary of State's Office, the medical professional and the applicant will get an electronic confirmation that the application has been received.

How secure is my personal information if I use the electronic process?
The system is very secure. In order for a renewal applicant to use the electronic system, they must sign in using their current parking placard number and a personal identification number (PIN) which is located on the renewal letter they receive from the Secretary of State's Office. When the physician signs in to put in the medical information, he/she will have to use their medical license number, their last name and the last four digits of their social security number.

Can I still use the old written application process?
Yes. The written application process is still in place and can be used by any person renewing their placard. The applicant needs to review the information on the written application, add any other information required by the Secretary of State, take the application to their medical professional's office for a diagnosis and certification and then mail the application to the Secretary of State's office.

Is the electronic application process open for anyone that currently has a parking placard?
No. At this time, the electronic process is only available to those individuals who are renewing their own blue (permanent) or yellow/grey (permanent and meter exempt) placard. Persons with red (temporary placards or a person with a disabled child) will have to utilize the paper application process.

I am applying for a parking placard for the first time? Can I use the electronic application process to obtain my parking placard?
No. At this time, any applicant applying for their first disability parking placard must utilize the paper application process. We hope to have the electronic program open to everyone sometime in the future.

I have a red (temporary disability) placard that I would like to have renewed. Can I use the electronic application process to obtain a renewal of my temporary parking placard?
No. At this time, applicants renewing a temporary parking placard must utilize the paper application process. We hope to have the electronic program open to everyone sometime in the future.

I have a child with a disability and have a disability placard to help get them to doctor's visits and other places. Can I use the electronic application process to obtain my renewal placard?
No. At this time, applicants renewing on behalf of a disabled child must utilize the paper application process. We hope to have the electronic program open to everyone sometime in the future.

I currently have a blue (permanent) disability placard but my doctor says I now qualify for a yellow/grey (permanent and meter exempt) parking placard. Can I use the electronic process to renew?
No. An applicant moving from one category to another is considered a new applicant and must utilize the paper application process. We hope to have the electronic program open to this category of placard holders sometime in the future.

How quickly will I receive my new placard using the electronic application v. the paper application?
If someone uses the paper application and drops it off at a Secretary of State facility, they may not receive their placard for approximately 30 days. If the applicant/medical professional mails the placard to address provided on the application, it may take 10-14 days. If an applicant fails to fill out the written application correctly (i.e., leaves off required information), it may take the Secretary of State more time to process the application.

If the electronic application process is utilized for renewals, applicants should receive their new placard within 15 days of submission. The electronic application process is programmed so all the required information must be provided or the electronic application cannot be submitted. This process ensures no added delays in receiving the new placard because of insufficient information.

What number can I call with any questions about the placard renewal process?
Anyone with questions about the process may call the Disabled Parking Program at 217-782-2885.

How do I get a handicapped parking permit in Illinois?

How do I get a handicapped parking in front of my house in Illinois?

How do I get a sticker for disabled parking?

Can I renew my handicap placard online in Illinois?

Where can I renew my handicap placard near me?