How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Handicap Placard in Florida

How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Handicap Placard in Florida

Introduction

Having a handicap placard can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. It provides convenient parking options and accessibility to various facilities and services. However, losing or having a handicap placard stolen can be frustrating and inconvenient. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of replacing a lost or stolen handicap placard in Florida, ensuring that you can regain the benefits and privileges that come with it.

Understanding the Importance of a Handicap Placard 

A handicap permit serves as a symbol of accessibility and offers numerous advantages to individuals with disabilities. It allows them to park in designated accessible spaces close to entrances, reducing the need for long walks or navigating through crowded parking lots. Moreover, a handicap placard ensures that those who genuinely require special accommodations can access vital facilities and services with ease.

The Benefits of Having a Handicap Placard

• Convenient Parking: With a disability tag, you can park in specially designated spaces located near building entrances, ensuring easier access.
• Reduced Physical Strain: The proximity of accessible parking spots minimizes the need for long walks, benefiting individuals with mobility challenges.
• Time Savings: Accessible parking spaces are often situated closer to the main entrances, saving time when reaching your destination.
• Enhanced Independence: A disability tag allows individuals with disabilities to maintain their independence by enabling easier access to public facilities.
• Increased Safety: By providing parking spaces designed for accessibility, disability tags contribute to a safer and more inclusive environment.

Lost or Stolen Handicap Placard: What to Do? 

Immediate Steps to Take

Discovering that your handicap placard is lost or stolen can be distressing. However, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect yourself and prevent potential misuse. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Stay Calm: While losing your placard is undoubtedly frustrating, keeping a calm mindset will help you navigate the situation more efficiently.
2. Double-Check: Before assuming your placard is lost or stolen, make sure to retrace your steps and thoroughly search your vehicle and personal belongings.
3. Ensure Safety: If your placard was stolen along with other valuables, such as your wallet or purse, promptly report the incident to the local authorities.
4. Secure Your Vehicle: If your placard was stolen, it is vital to protect your vehicle from any further unauthorized use. Consider notifying the police and providing them with the necessary details.
5. Take Note: Document the date, time, and circumstances surrounding the loss or theft of your placard. These details will be helpful when reporting the incident.

Reporting the Loss or Theft 

To safeguard yourself and prevent potential misuse, report the loss or theft of your disability tag to the appropriate authorities. By doing so, you will help prevent unauthorized individuals from abusing the privileges associated with the placard.

1. Contact the Local Police: If your disability tag was stolen, promptly report the incident to the local police department. Provide them with all the necessary details, including the date, time, and location of the theft. This information will aid in their investigation and deter potential misuse.
2. Notify the DHSMV: In addition to contacting the police, you should inform the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) about the loss or theft of your handicap placard. This step will initiate the process of applying for a replacement placard.

Reapplying for a Handicap Placard 

After reporting the loss or theft of your handicap placard, you will need to go through the process of reapplying for a replacement. Before proceeding, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements and gather all the required documents.

Eligibility Requirements 

To be eligible for a handicap placard in Florida, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Disability Status: You should have a qualifying disability that significantly impairs your mobility or necessitates the use of assistive devices, such as crutches, canes, or wheelchairs.
2. Certification: Your disability must be certified by an authorized medical professional, such as a licensed physician, osteopath, podiatrist, or optometrist.
3. Residency: You must be a resident of the state to apply for a disability tag.

Gathering the Required Documents 

To complete the application process successfully, ensure that you have the following documents ready:

1. Application Form: Obtain the Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit (Form HSMV 83039) from the DHSMV website or your local tax collector's office.
2. Medical Certification: Acquire a medical certification completed by a licensed physician, osteopath, podiatrist, or optometrist. The certification should verify your qualifying disability and include the medical professional's contact information.
3. Proof of Residency: Provide documentation that confirms your residency in this state, such as a valid Florida driver's license or identification card.
4. Identification: Prepare a photocopy of your valid driver's license or identification card to establish your identity.
5. Payment: Keep in mind that there may be fees associated with the replacement of a lost or stolen disability tag. Ensure that you have the necessary payment method available, such as a credit or debit card.

Applying for a Replacement Placard 

Once you have met the eligibility requirements and gathered the required documents, you can proceed with the application process for a replacement disability tag. This state offers both in-person and online application options for your convenience.

In-Person Application 

To apply for a replacement placard in person, follow these steps:

1. Locate a Tax Collector's Office: Visit the Florida DHSMV website to find the nearest tax collector's office in your area.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit (Form HSMV 83039) accurately and legibly.
3. Submit the Required Documents: Bring the completed application form, medical certification, proof of residency, identification, and payment to the tax collector's office.
4. Pay the Fees: Pay any applicable fees associated with the replacement placard. Fees may vary, so it's best to check the current fee schedule on the DHSMV website or contact the tax collector's office directly.
5. Receive your Replacement Placard: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive a replacement disability sign.

Online Application 

If you prefer the convenience of applying online, this state offers an online application system through the DHSMV website. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the DHSMV Website: Go to the Florida DHSMV website and navigate to the online services section.
2. Complete the Online Application: Fill out the online application form accurately and provide all the required information.
3. Upload the Required Documents: Scan and upload the completed application form, medical certification, proof of residency, and identification.
4. Submit the Application: Review the information you provided, ensure its accuracy, and submit the online application.
5. Pay the Fees: Make the necessary payment for the replacement placard using a credit or debit card.
6. Receive your Replacement Placard: Once your application is processed and approved, your replacement disability sign will be mailed to the address on file.

Processing Time and Fees 

Processing Time 

The processing time for a replacement disability sign in this state may vary depending on the method of application and other factors. Generally, it can take approximately 2 to 4 weeks to receive your replacement placard. It is essential to plan accordingly and allow sufficient time for processing.

Fees for Replacement Placard 

Florida assesses a fee for replacement handicap placards. As of the last update, the fee for a replacement placard was $10. It is recommended to verify the current fee schedule on the DHSMV website or contact the tax collector's office to ensure accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I use my temporary handicap placard while waiting for a replacement?

Yes, if you possess a temporary disability sign, you can continue to use it while waiting for a replacement. Temporary placards have an expiration date, so be sure to replace it with a permanent one once you receive it.

2. Is there an age restriction for obtaining a handicap placard?

No, there is no age restriction for obtaining a disability sign in this state. Individuals of all ages who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for a disability sign.

3. Can I replace my handicap placard if it is damaged? 

Yes, if your disability sign becomes damaged and is no longer usable, you can apply for a replacement. The process for replacing a damaged placard is the same as replacing a lost or stolen one.

4. Can someone else apply for a replacement placard on my behalf? 

Yes, if you are unable to apply for a replacement placard yourself, you can authorize someone else to do it on your behalf. They will need to provide the necessary documentation, including a signed letter of authorization from you.

5. What should I do if I find my lost handicap placard after receiving a replacement? 

If you find your lost disability sign after receiving a replacement, you should immediately stop using the replacement placard and return it to the DHSMV. Continuing to use both placards would be considered misuse and may result in penalties.

6. Can I transfer my handicap placard to another vehicle? 

Yes, Florida handicap placards are transferable between vehicles. However, you must ensure that the placard is appropriately displayed in the vehicle you are currently using.

Conclusion 

Losing or having a handicap placard in Florida stolen can be an inconvenience, but the process of replacing it in Florida is straightforward. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently navigate through the necessary procedures and obtain a replacement handicap placard. Remember to report the loss or theft, gather the required documents, and choose the application method that suits you best. By doing so, you can regain the benefits and privileges that come with a disability tag, ensuring accessibility and convenience in your everyday life.