Identification

Having a valid identification document (ID) is very important for people with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) because it helps prove who they are. With an ID, they can access important services, protect their rights, and take part in everyday activities that would be much harder without it. These everyday activities may include opening a bank account, getting a job, voting, or applying for housing. Having a valid ID can also improve quality of life and increase confidence!

 New Jersey residents who are 14 years old or older can apply for a non-driver photo ID (persons with a disability). This ID is used to prove who you are, but it does not give permission to drive. The non-driver ID also cannot be used to park in a person(s) with a disability parking space. There is no renewal fee for this non-driver ID card.

• All Initial non-driver identification card must be obtained in-person by scheduling an appointment at any Licensing Center.
  • Renewals for non-driver ID can be completed Online.
• Complete the Application for Permit/License/Non-Driver ID (Form BA-208).
• Provide the required 6 Points of ID. These points of ID will provide proof of the following:
  • Your age and identity
  • Your residential address in New Jersey
  • A social security number, ITIN, or affidavit
• The initial fee is only $6 for persons with a disability. 
• Have a physician complete The Physician Certificate for Blind or Disabled Person, Non-Driver ID Application. 

The NJ Motor Vehicle Commission is required to capture a customer’s full face when taking a picture for a non-driver ID card; therefore, they need to be able to see from the top of your forehead to the bottom of your chin.  If you have a medical or religious need to wear a head covering in your photo, please advise the MVC staff at the agency camera station.

 Individuals who meet the medical qualifications are eligible to choose from one of three options:

• One (1) set of wheelchair symbol license plates
• One (1) person with a disability placard
• One (1) set of plates AND one placard

A set of wheelchair plates can be issued for a car owned by the person with a disability or by a family member who drives them.

  How the Placard Works

The disability placard allows the driver to park in a wheelchair?symbol parking space only when the person with the disability is in the vehicle and has their Disability ID Card with them.

• The Disability ID Card must always be with the person.
• The card cannot be shared or used by someone else.
• Misusing the card, placard, or plates can cause them to be taken away immediately.

Important Legal Warning

It is a crime in New Jersey to lie or give false information on an application for disability plates or a placard. Under state law (N.J.S.A. 2C:21?4a), a person who does this may face:

• A fine up to $10,000
• Up to 18 months in prison

How Long the Privileges Last

Disability parking privileges are valid for three years. After three years, the person must submit:

• A new application, and
• A new medical certification from an approved medical professional

 How to Apply

• Complete the Application for Vehicle License Plates and/or Placard for Persons with a Disability (Form SP-41).  There is no fee for either the license plates or the placard.
• This can be completed by visiting a motor vehicle agency or submitting a request through the mail.  If you choose to submit through the mail, send to:
  • New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
    Special Plate Unit
    225 East State Street
    PO Box 015
    Trenton, NJ 08666-0015
• A copy of the vehicle registration must be included with the plate application.
• Applicants without a driver’s license or non-driver identification (ID) card must prove identity by meeting the 6 Points of ID verification requirements.
  • Note: Wheelchair Symbol plates cannot be issued for vehicles owned by or leased to companies, organizations or groups
• An Instruction Checklist (Form SP-41A) is available to ensure you have all of the necessary information to fully complete the application and avoid processing delays. 

 How to Recertify and Renew

Wheelchair Symbol license Plates: 

You must renew your wheelchair symbol license plates every year as part of the Statewide renewal process. Every three years, a medical recertification will be required to renew your wheelchair symbol license plates.

If you no longer qualify for the plates, you must surrender your wheelchair symbol plates and Person with a Disability Identification Card and apply for a new set of regular license plates at a motor vehicle agency.

Person with Disability Placards:

You must recertify your qualifying medical condition every three years.  You may renew your placard by mailing the recertification application (SP-41) or you may visit a motor vehicle agency to do so.

There is no fee to recertify

Only original documents will be accepted; no photocopies allowed. 

If you did not receive a renewal notice:

If you do not receive your renewal notice in the mail, you may download the Application for Vehicle License Plates and/or Placard for Persons with a Disability (Form SP-41).   Also review the Instruction Checklist (Form SP-41A) is available to ensure you have all of the necessary information to fully complete the application and avoid processing delays.   Mail the completed application to:

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Special Plate Unit
225 East State Street
PO Box 15
Trenton, NJ 08666-0015

OR, you may call the MVC’s Special Plate unit at 609-292-6500 to have an application and a checklist mailed to you.

Medical Recertification

The law requires a statement from a qualified medical practitioner recertifying your qualification for wheelchair symbol plates or placards every three years.  The medical certification must be dated within 60 days of submitting your application.  Detailed information on Qualifications is available.