California 2023-2024 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB2289 Compare Versions

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1-Amended IN Senate June 13, 2024 Amended IN Assembly May 16, 2024 Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2024 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 2289Introduced by Assembly Member LowFebruary 08, 2024An act to amend, repeal, and add Sections 295.5, 5007, 22511.55, and 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2289, as amended, Low. Vehicles: parking placards and special license plates for disabled veterans and persons with disabilities.Existing law authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a distinguishing placard to a qualified disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application, to be displayed upon a parked vehicle for the purpose of identifying eligibility for certain parking privileges. Existing law also authorizes the department to issue a special license plate to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application. Existing law authorizes the department to issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing a specified symbol to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, as specified. Prior to issuing a placard or license plate, existing law requires the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, as specified, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. Prior to issuing a temporary distinguishing placard, existing law requires the submission of a certificate substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.For the disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, existing law additionally authorizes a licensed chiropractor to certify these disabilities.This bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.The bill would make additional conforming changes to those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 2. Section 295.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 3. Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 4. Section 5007 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 5. Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 6. Section 22511.55 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 7. Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 8. Section 22511.59 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, licensed physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
1+Amended IN Assembly May 16, 2024 Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2024 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 2289Introduced by Assembly Member LowFebruary 08, 2024An act to amend amend, repeal, and add Sections 295.5, 5007, 22511.55, and 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2289, as amended, Low. Vehicles: parking placards and special license plates for disabled veterans and persons with disabilities.Existing law authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a distinguishing placard to a qualified disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application, to be displayed upon a parked vehicle for the purpose of identifying eligibility for certain parking privileges. Existing law also authorizes the department to issue a special license plate to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application. Existing law authorizes the department to issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing a specified symbol to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, as specified. Prior to issuing a placard or license plate, existing law requires the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, as specified, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. Prior to issuing a temporary distinguishing placard, existing law requires the submission of a certificate substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.For the disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, existing law additionally authorizes a licensed chiropractor to certify these disabilities.This bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.The bill would make additional conforming changes to those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 2. Section 295.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 3. Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 4. Section 5007 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 5. Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 6. Section 22511.55 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 7. Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 8. Section 22511.59 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SECTION 1.Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:295.5.A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a)Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b)Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c)Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1)The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2)The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d)Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.SEC. 2.Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007.(a)The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1)A person with a disability.(2)A disabled veteran.(3)An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b)The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c)(1)(A)Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B)The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C)The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D)The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3)For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d)A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e)The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f)The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g)When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h)The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.SEC. 3.Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55.(a)(1)A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2)(A)The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B)As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C)Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D)The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3)Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4)Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5)The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b)(1)(A)Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B)The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C)The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D)The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3)The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4)For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c)A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d)The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e)The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1)The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2)The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3)The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4)The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5)The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6)The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.SEC. 4.Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59.(a)Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b)(1)A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5)The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c)(1)A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5)The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d)(1)A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4)The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e)The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1)The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2)The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3)The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4)The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5)The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6)The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f)The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
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3- Amended IN Senate June 13, 2024 Amended IN Assembly May 16, 2024 Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2024 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 2289Introduced by Assembly Member LowFebruary 08, 2024An act to amend, repeal, and add Sections 295.5, 5007, 22511.55, and 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2289, as amended, Low. Vehicles: parking placards and special license plates for disabled veterans and persons with disabilities.Existing law authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a distinguishing placard to a qualified disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application, to be displayed upon a parked vehicle for the purpose of identifying eligibility for certain parking privileges. Existing law also authorizes the department to issue a special license plate to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application. Existing law authorizes the department to issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing a specified symbol to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, as specified. Prior to issuing a placard or license plate, existing law requires the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, as specified, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. Prior to issuing a temporary distinguishing placard, existing law requires the submission of a certificate substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.For the disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, existing law additionally authorizes a licensed chiropractor to certify these disabilities.This bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.The bill would make additional conforming changes to those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO
3+ Amended IN Assembly May 16, 2024 Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2024 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 2289Introduced by Assembly Member LowFebruary 08, 2024An act to amend amend, repeal, and add Sections 295.5, 5007, 22511.55, and 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2289, as amended, Low. Vehicles: parking placards and special license plates for disabled veterans and persons with disabilities.Existing law authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a distinguishing placard to a qualified disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application, to be displayed upon a parked vehicle for the purpose of identifying eligibility for certain parking privileges. Existing law also authorizes the department to issue a special license plate to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application. Existing law authorizes the department to issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing a specified symbol to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, as specified. Prior to issuing a placard or license plate, existing law requires the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, as specified, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. Prior to issuing a temporary distinguishing placard, existing law requires the submission of a certificate substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.For the disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, existing law additionally authorizes a licensed chiropractor to certify these disabilities.This bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.The bill would make additional conforming changes to those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO
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5- Amended IN Senate June 13, 2024 Amended IN Assembly May 16, 2024 Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2024
5+ Amended IN Assembly May 16, 2024 Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2024
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7-Amended IN Senate June 13, 2024
87 Amended IN Assembly May 16, 2024
98 Amended IN Assembly March 21, 2024
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1110 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION
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1312 Assembly Bill
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1514 No. 2289
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1716 Introduced by Assembly Member LowFebruary 08, 2024
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1918 Introduced by Assembly Member Low
2019 February 08, 2024
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22-An act to amend, repeal, and add Sections 295.5, 5007, 22511.55, and 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.
21+An act to amend amend, repeal, and add Sections 295.5, 5007, 22511.55, and 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.
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2423 LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
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2625 ## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
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2827 AB 2289, as amended, Low. Vehicles: parking placards and special license plates for disabled veterans and persons with disabilities.
2928
30-Existing law authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a distinguishing placard to a qualified disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application, to be displayed upon a parked vehicle for the purpose of identifying eligibility for certain parking privileges. Existing law also authorizes the department to issue a special license plate to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application. Existing law authorizes the department to issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing a specified symbol to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, as specified. Prior to issuing a placard or license plate, existing law requires the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, as specified, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. Prior to issuing a temporary distinguishing placard, existing law requires the submission of a certificate substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.For the disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, existing law additionally authorizes a licensed chiropractor to certify these disabilities.This bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.The bill would make additional conforming changes to those provisions.
29+Existing law authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a distinguishing placard to a qualified disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application, to be displayed upon a parked vehicle for the purpose of identifying eligibility for certain parking privileges. Existing law also authorizes the department to issue a special license plate to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application. Existing law authorizes the department to issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing a specified symbol to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, as specified. Prior to issuing a placard or license plate, existing law requires the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, as specified, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. Prior to issuing a temporary distinguishing placard, existing law requires the submission of a certificate substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.For the disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, existing law additionally authorizes a licensed chiropractor to certify these disabilities.This bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.The bill would make additional conforming changes to those provisions.
3130
3231 Existing law authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a distinguishing placard to a qualified disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application, to be displayed upon a parked vehicle for the purpose of identifying eligibility for certain parking privileges. Existing law also authorizes the department to issue a special license plate to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, upon application. Existing law authorizes the department to issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing a specified symbol to a disabled veteran or person with a disability, as specified. Prior to issuing a placard or license plate, existing law requires the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, as specified, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. Prior to issuing a temporary distinguishing placard, existing law requires the submission of a certificate substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.
3332
3433 For the disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, existing law additionally authorizes a licensed chiropractor to certify these disabilities.
3534
36-This bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.
35+This bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would additionally authorize a licensed physical therapist to certify the loss, or loss of use, of the lower extremities or hands, as described above. The bill bill, beginning on January 1, 2026, would also authorize a physical therapist to substantiate a temporary disability for the purpose of issuing a temporary distinguishing placard.
3736
3837 The bill would make additional conforming changes to those provisions.
3938
4039 ## Digest Key
4140
4241 ## Bill Text
4342
44-The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 2. Section 295.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 3. Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 4. Section 5007 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 5. Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 6. Section 22511.55 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 7. Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 8. Section 22511.59 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, licensed physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
43+The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 2. Section 295.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 3. Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 4. Section 5007 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 5. Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 6. Section 22511.55 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SEC. 7. Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.SEC. 8. Section 22511.59 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.SECTION 1.Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:295.5.A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a)Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b)Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c)Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1)The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2)The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d)Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.SEC. 2.Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007.(a)The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1)A person with a disability.(2)A disabled veteran.(3)An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b)The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c)(1)(A)Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B)The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C)The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D)The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3)For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d)A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e)The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f)The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g)When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h)The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.SEC. 3.Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55.(a)(1)A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2)(A)The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B)As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C)Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D)The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3)Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4)Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5)The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b)(1)(A)Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B)The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C)The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D)The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3)The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4)For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c)A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d)The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e)The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1)The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2)The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3)The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4)The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5)The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6)The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.SEC. 4.Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59.(a)Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b)(1)A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5)The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c)(1)A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5)The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d)(1)A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4)The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e)The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1)The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2)The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3)The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4)The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5)The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6)The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f)The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
4544
4645 The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
4746
4847 ## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
4948
5049 SECTION 1. Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
5150
5251 SECTION 1. Section 295.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:
5352
5453 ### SECTION 1.
5554
5655 295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
5756
5857 295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
5958
6059 295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
6160
6261
6362
6463 295.5. A disabled person is any of the following:
6564
6665 (a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.
6766
6867 (b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.
6968
7069 (c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:
7170
7271 (1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.
7372
7473 (2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.
7574
7675 (d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.
7776
7877 (e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
7978
8079 SEC. 2. Section 295.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
8180
8281 SEC. 2. Section 295.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:
8382
8483 ### SEC. 2.
8584
8685 295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
8786
8887 295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
8988
9089 295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:(a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.(b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.(c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:(1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.(2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.(d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
9190
9291
9392
9493 295.5. A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:
9594
9695 (a) Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.
9796
9897 (b) Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.
9998
10099 (c) Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:
101100
102101 (1) The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.
103102
104103 (2) The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.
105104
106105 (d) Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.
107106
108107 (e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
109108
110-SEC. 3. Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
109+SEC. 3. Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
111110
112111 SEC. 3. Section 5007 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:
113112
114113 ### SEC. 3.
115114
116-5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
115+5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
117116
118-5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
117+5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
119118
120-5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
119+5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A disabled person.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
121120
122121
123122
124123 5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:
125124
126125 (1) A disabled person.
127126
128127 (2) A disabled veteran.
129128
130129 (3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.
131130
132131 (b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that shall include one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.
133132
134133 (c) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.
135134
136-(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
135+(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
137136
138137 (3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.
139138
140139 (d) A disabled person or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the disabled person or veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.
141140
142141 (e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).
143142
144143 (f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.
145144
146145 (g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.
147146
148147 (h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
149148
150149 (1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
151150
152151 (2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
153152
154153 (3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
155154
156155 (i) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
157156
158157 SEC. 4. Section 5007 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
159158
160159 SEC. 4. Section 5007 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:
161160
162161 ### SEC. 4.
163162
164163 5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
165164
166165 5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
167166
168167 5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:(1) A person with a disability.(2) A disabled veteran.(3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.(b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.(c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.(e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).(f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.(g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.(h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
169168
170169
171170
172171 5007. (a) The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:
173172
174173 (1) A person with a disability.
175174
176175 (2) A disabled veteran.
177176
178177 (3) An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.
179178
180179 (b) The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.
181180
182181 (c) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.
183182
184183 (B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.
185184
186185 (C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.
187186
188187 (D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.
189188
190189 (E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.
191190
192191 (2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
193192
194193 (3) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.
195194
196195 (d) A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.
197196
198197 (e) The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).
199198
200199 (f) The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.
201200
202201 (g) When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.
203202
204203 (h) The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
205204
206205 (1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
207206
208207 (2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
209208
210209 (3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
211210
212211 (i) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
213212
214-SEC. 5. Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
213+SEC. 5. Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
215214
216215 SEC. 5. Section 22511.55 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:
217216
218217 ### SEC. 5.
219218
220-22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
219+22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
221220
222-22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
221+22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
223222
224-22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
223+22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
225224
226225
227226
228227 22511.55. (a) (1) A disabled person or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.
229228
230229 (2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.
231230
232231 (B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.
233232
234233 (C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse, and withhold any renewal notices or placards that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.
235234
236235 (D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.
237236
238237 (3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person shall not be eligible for more than one placard at a time.
239238
240239 (4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of disabled persons or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting disabled persons or disabled veterans.
241240
242241 (5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
243242
244243 (A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
245244
246245 (B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
247246
248247 (C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
249248
250249 (b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a disabled person or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested. The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a disabled person, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor. The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist. The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist. The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.
251250
252-(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
251+(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
253252
254253 (3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.
255254
256255 (4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.
257256
258257 (c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility, if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).
259258
260259 (d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the disabled person or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.
261260
262261 (e) The department shall print on any distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:
263262
264263 (1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.
265264
266265 (2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.
267266
268267 (3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.
269268
270269 (4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.
271270
272271 (5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.
273272
274273 (6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.
275274
276275 (f) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
277276
278277 SEC. 6. Section 22511.55 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
279278
280279 SEC. 6. Section 22511.55 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:
281280
282281 ### SEC. 6.
283282
284283 22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
285284
286285 22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
287286
288287 22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.(2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.(B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.(C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.(D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.(3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.(4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.(5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.(B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.(C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.(D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.(E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.(2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.(4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.(c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).(d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.(e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
289288
290289
291290
292291 22511.55. (a) (1) A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.
293292
294293 (2) (A) The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.
295294
296295 (B) As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.
297296
298297 (C) Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.
299298
300299 (D) The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.
301300
302301 (3) Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.
303302
304303 (4) Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.
305304
306305 (5) The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
307306
308307 (A) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
309308
310309 (B) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
311310
312311 (C) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
313312
314313 (b) (1) (A) Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.
315314
316315 (B) The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.
317316
318317 (C) The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.
319318
320319 (D) The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.
321320
322321 (E) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.
323322
324323 (2) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
325324
326325 (3) The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.
327326
328327 (4) For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.
329328
330329 (c) A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).
331330
332331 (d) The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.
333332
334333 (e) The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:
335334
336335 (1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.
337336
338337 (2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.
339338
340339 (3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.
341340
342341 (4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.
343342
344343 (5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.
345344
346345 (6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.
347346
348347 (f) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
349348
350-SEC. 7. Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
349+SEC. 7. Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
351350
352351 SEC. 7. Section 22511.59 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:
353352
354353 ### SEC. 7.
355354
356-22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
355+22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
357356
358-22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
357+22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
359358
360-22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
359+22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
361360
362361
363362
364363 22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.
365364
366365 (b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).
367366
368-(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.
367+(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.
369368
370-(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
369+(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
371370
372371 (4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.
373372
374373 (5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).
375374
376375 (6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
377376
378377 (c) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).
379378
380379 (2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.
381380
382-(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
381+(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
383382
384383 (4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.
385384
386385 (5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.
387386
388387 (6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
389388
390389 (d) (1) A permanently disabled person or disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, but not both, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.
391390
392391 (2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.
393392
394393 (3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.
395394
396395 (4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.
397396
398397 (5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
399398
400399 (e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:
401400
402401 (1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.
403402
404403 (2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.
405404
406405 (3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.
407406
408407 (4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.
409408
410409 (5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.
411410
412411 (6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.
413412
414-(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
413+(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
415414
416415 (1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
417416
418417 (2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
419418
420419 (3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
421420
422421 (g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2026, and as of that date is repealed.
423422
424-SEC. 8. Section 22511.59 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, licensed physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
423+SEC. 8. Section 22511.59 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
425424
426425 SEC. 8. Section 22511.59 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:
427426
428427 ### SEC. 8.
429428
430-22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, licensed physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
429+22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
431430
432-22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, licensed physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
431+22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
433432
434-22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, licensed physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
433+22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.(b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.(5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.(3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.(4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.(5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.(3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.(4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.(5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.(e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:(1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.(2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.(3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.(4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.(5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.(6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:(1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.(2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.(3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
435434
436435
437436
438437 22511.59. (a) Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.
439438
440439 (b) (1) A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).
441440
442-(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, licensed physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.
441+(2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.
443442
444443 (3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
445444
446445 (4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.
447446
448447 (5) The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).
449448
450449 (6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
451450
452451 (c) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).
453452
454453 (2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.
455454
456455 (3) The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
457456
458457 (4) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.
459458
460459 (5) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.
461460
462461 (6) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
463462
464463 (d) (1) A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.
465464
466465 (2) Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.
467466
468467 (3) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.
469468
470469 (4) The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.
471470
472471 (5) A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
473472
474473 (e) The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:
475474
476475 (1) The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.
477476
478477 (2) The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.
479478
480479 (3) The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.
481480
482481 (4) The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.
483482
484483 (5) The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.
485484
486485 (6) The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.
487486
488-(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her their true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
487+(f) The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
489488
490489 (1) A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
491490
492491 (2) A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
493492
494493 (3) An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
495494
496495 (g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.
496+
497+
498+
499+
500+
501+A disabled person or person with a disability is any of the following:
502+
503+
504+
505+(a)Any person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or both hands, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, or who has a diagnosed disease or disorder which substantially impairs or interferes with mobility, or who is so severely disabled as to be unable to move without the aid of an assistant device.
506+
507+
508+
509+(b)Any person who is blind to the extent that the persons central visual acuity does not exceed 20/200 in the better eye, with corrective lenses, as measured by the Snellen test, or visual acuity that is greater than 20/200, but with a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle not greater than 20 degrees.
510+
511+
512+
513+(c)Any person who suffers from lung disease to the extent of any of the following:
514+
515+
516+
517+(1)The persons forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second when measured by spirometry is less than one liter.
518+
519+
520+
521+(2)The persons arterial oxygen tension (pO2) is less than 60 mm/Hg on room air while the person is at rest.
522+
523+
524+
525+(d)Any person who is impaired by cardiovascular disease to the extent that the persons functional limitations are classified in severity as class III or class IV based upon standards accepted by the American Heart Association.
526+
527+
528+
529+
530+
531+
532+
533+(a)The department shall, upon application and without additional fees, issue a special license plate or plates pursuant to procedures adopted by the department to all of the following:
534+
535+
536+
537+(1)A person with a disability.
538+
539+
540+
541+(2)A disabled veteran.
542+
543+
544+
545+(3)An organization or agency involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans if the motor vehicle that will have the special license plate is used solely for the purpose of transporting those persons.
546+
547+
548+
549+(b)The special license plates issued under subdivision (a) shall run in a regular numerical series that includes one or more unique two-letter codes reserved for disabled person license plates or disabled veteran license plates. The International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol shall be depicted on each plate.
550+
551+
552+
553+(c)(1)(A)Except as provided in paragraph (3), before issuing a special license plate to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability, unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.
554+
555+
556+
557+(B)The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost the use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands for a person with a disability, or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.
558+
559+
560+
561+(C)The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.
562+
563+
564+
565+(D)The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.
566+
567+
568+
569+(E)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.
570+
571+
572+
573+(2)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
574+
575+
576+
577+(3)For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.
578+
579+
580+
581+(d)A person with a disability or disabled veteran who is issued a license plate or plates under this section shall, upon request, present to a peace officer, or person authorized to enforce parking laws, ordinances, or regulations, a certification form that substantiates the eligibility of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to possess the plate or plates. The certification shall be on a form prescribed by the department and contain the name of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the plate or plates were issued, and the name, address, and telephone number of the medical professional described in subdivision (c) who certified the eligibility of the person or veteran for the plate or plates.
582+
583+
584+
585+(e)The certification requirements of subdivisions (c) and (d) do not apply to an organization or agency that is issued a special license plate or plates under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).
586+
587+
588+
589+(f)The special license plate shall, upon the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran, be returned to the department within 60 days or upon the expiration of the vehicle registration, whichever occurs first.
590+
591+
592+
593+(g)When a motor vehicle subject to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) is sold or transferred, the special license plate or plates issued to an organization or agency under paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) for that motor vehicle shall be immediately returned to the department.
594+
595+
596+
597+(h)The department shall require a person who applies for a special license plate pursuant to this section to provide proof of the applicants true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
598+
599+
600+
601+(1)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
602+
603+
604+
605+(2)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
606+
607+
608+
609+(3)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
610+
611+
612+
613+
614+
615+
616+
617+(a)(1)A person with a disability or disabled veteran may apply to the department for the issuance of a distinguishing placard. The placard may be used in lieu of the special license plate or plates issued under Section 5007 for parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 when (A) suspended from the rearview mirror, (B) if there is no rearview mirror, when displayed on the dashboard of a vehicle, or (C) inserted in a clip designated for a distinguishing placard and installed by the manufacturer on the drivers side of the front window. It is the intent of the Legislature to encourage the use of distinguishing placards because they provide law enforcement officers with a more readily recognizable symbol for distinguishing vehicles qualified for the parking privilege. The placard shall be the size, shape, and color determined by the department and shall bear the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. The department shall incorporate instructions for the lawful use of a placard, and a summary of the penalties for the unlawful use of a placard, into the identification card issued to the placard owner.
618+
619+
620+
621+(2)(A)The department may establish procedures for the issuance and renewal of the placards. The procedures shall include, but are not limited to, advising an applicant in writing on the application for a placard of the procedure to apply for a special license plate or plates, as described in Section 5007, and the fee exemptions established pursuant to Section 9105 and in subdivision (a) of Section 10783 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. The placards shall have a fixed expiration date of June 30 every two years. A portion of the placard shall be printed in a contrasting color that shall be changed every two years. The size and color of this contrasting portion of the placard shall be large and distinctive enough to be readily identifiable by a law enforcement officer in a passing vehicle.
622+
623+
624+
625+(B)As used in this section, year means the period between the inclusive dates of July 1 through June 30.
626+
627+
628+
629+(C)Prior to the end of each year, the department shall, for the most current three years available, compare its record of disability placards issued against the records of the Office of Vital Records of the State Department of Public Health, or its successor, and a nationwide vital statistics clearinghouse and withhold a renewal notice or placard that otherwise would have been sent for a placardholder identified as deceased.
630+
631+
632+
633+(D)The department shall, six years after the first issuance of a placard and every six years thereafter, send the placardholder a renewal form at least 90 days prior to the June 30 expiration date of the current placard. Certification of medical disability and proof of true full name is not required for the renewal. A placardholder who wishes to renew a placard shall fill out the form and submit it to the department prior to expiration of the current placard.
634+
635+
636+
637+(3)Except as provided in paragraph (4), a person is not eligible for more than one placard at a time.
638+
639+
640+
641+(4)Organizations and agencies involved in the transportation of persons with disabilities or disabled veterans may apply for a placard for each vehicle used for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities or disabled veterans.
642+
643+
644+
645+(5)The department shall require a person who applies for a placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of the persons true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
646+
647+
648+
649+(A)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
650+
651+
652+
653+(B)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
654+
655+
656+
657+(C)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.
658+
659+
660+
661+(b)(1)(A)Except as provided in paragraph (4), prior to issuing an original distinguishing placard to a person with a disability or disabled veteran, the department shall require the submission of a certificate, in accordance with paragraph (2), signed by the physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, or physician assistant, substantiating the disability unless the applicants disability is readily observable and uncontested.
662+
663+
664+
665+(B)The disability of a person who has lost, or has lost use of, one or more lower extremities or one hand, for a disabled veteran, or both hands, for a person with a disability or who has significant limitation in the use of lower extremities, may also be certified by a licensed chiropractor or a licensed physical therapist.
666+
667+
668+
669+(C)The disability of a person related to the foot or ankle may be certified by a licensed podiatrist.
670+
671+
672+
673+(D)The blindness of an applicant shall be certified by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist.
674+
675+
676+
677+(E)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, or optometrist certifying the qualifying disability shall provide a full description of the illness or disability on the form submitted to the department.
678+
679+
680+
681+(2)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall retain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
682+
683+
684+
685+(3)The department shall maintain in its records all information on an applicants certification of permanent disability and shall make that information available to eligible law enforcement or parking control agencies upon a request pursuant to Section 22511.58.
686+
687+
688+
689+(4)For a disabled veteran, the department shall accept, in lieu of the certificate described in paragraph (1), a certificate from a county veterans service officer, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that certifies that the applicant is a disabled veteran as described in Section 295.7.
690+
691+
692+
693+(c)A person who is issued a distinguishing placard pursuant to subdivision (a) may apply to the department for a substitute placard without recertification of eligibility if that placard is lost or stolen. The department shall not issue a substitute placard to a person more than four times in a two-year renewal period. A person who requires a substitute placard in excess of the four replacements authorized pursuant to this subdivision shall reapply to the department for a new placard and submit a new certificate of disability as described in subdivision (b).
694+
695+
696+
697+(d)The distinguishing placard shall be returned to the department not later than 60 days after the death of the person with a disability or disabled veteran to whom the placard was issued.
698+
699+
700+
701+(e)The department shall print on a distinguishing placard issued on or after January 1, 2005, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:
702+
703+
704+
705+(1)The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.
706+
707+
708+
709+(2)The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.
710+
711+
712+
713+(3)The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.
714+
715+
716+
717+(4)The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.
718+
719+
720+
721+(5)The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.
722+
723+
724+
725+(6)The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.
726+
727+
728+
729+
730+
731+
732+
733+(a)Upon the receipt of the applications and documents required by subdivision (b), (c), or (d), the department shall issue a temporary distinguishing placard bearing the International Symbol of Access adopted pursuant to Section 3 of Public Law 100-641, commonly known as the wheelchair symbol. During the period for which it is valid, the temporary distinguishing placard may be used for the parking purposes described in Section 22511.5 in the same manner as a distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55.
734+
735+
736+
737+(b)(1)A person who is temporarily disabled for a period of not more than six months may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).
738+
739+
740+
741+(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the submission of a certificate signed by a physician and surgeon, or to the extent that it does not cause a reduction in the receipt of federal aid highway funds, by a nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55, substantiating the temporary disability and stating the date upon which the disability is expected to terminate.
742+
743+
744+
745+(3)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
746+
747+
748+
749+(4)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 180 days from the date of issuance or upon the expected termination date of the disability, as stated on the certificate required by paragraph (2), whichever is less.
750+
751+
752+
753+(5)The fee for a temporary placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be six dollars ($6).
754+
755+
756+
757+(6)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
758+
759+
760+
761+(c)(1)A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who is not a resident of this state and plans to travel within the state may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a).
762+
763+
764+
765+(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require certification of the disability, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 22511.55.
766+
767+
768+
769+(3)The physician and surgeon, nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, physician assistant, chiropractor, physical therapist, podiatrist, or optometrist who signs a certificate submitted under this subdivision shall maintain information sufficient to substantiate that certificate and, upon request of the department, shall make that information available for inspection by the Medical Board of California or the appropriate regulatory board.
770+
771+
772+
773+(4)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 90 days from the date of issuance.
774+
775+
776+
777+(5)The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.
778+
779+
780+
781+(6)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
782+
783+
784+
785+(d)(1)A person with a permanent disability or a disabled veteran who has been issued either a distinguishing placard pursuant to Section 22511.55 or special license plates pursuant to Section 5007, may apply to the department for the issuance of the temporary distinguishing placard described in subdivision (a) for the purpose of travel.
786+
787+
788+
789+(2)Prior to issuing a placard pursuant to this subdivision, the department shall require the applicant to submit either the number identifying the distinguishing placard issued pursuant to Section 22511.55 or the number on the special license plates.
790+
791+
792+
793+(3)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall expire not later than 30 days from the date of issuance.
794+
795+
796+
797+(4)The department shall not charge a fee for issuance of a placard under this subdivision.
798+
799+
800+
801+(5)A placard issued pursuant to this subdivision shall be renewed a maximum of six times consecutively.
802+
803+
804+
805+(e)The department shall print on a temporary distinguishing placard, the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of Section 4461. For the purposes of this subdivision, the maximum penalty is the amount derived from adding all of the following:
806+
807+
808+
809+(1)The maximum fine that may be imposed under Section 4461.
810+
811+
812+
813+(2)The penalty required to be imposed under Section 70372 of the Government Code.
814+
815+
816+
817+(3)The penalty required to be levied under Section 76000 of the Government Code.
818+
819+
820+
821+(4)The penalty required to be levied under Section 1464 of the Penal Code.
822+
823+
824+
825+(5)The surcharge required to be levied under Section 1465.7 of the Penal Code.
826+
827+
828+
829+(6)The penalty authorized to be imposed under Section 4461.3.
830+
831+
832+
833+(f)The department shall require a person who applies for a temporary placard pursuant to this section to provide proof of his or her true full name and date of birth that shall be established by submitting one of the following to the department:
834+
835+
836+
837+(1)A copy or facsimile of the applicants state issued drivers license or identification card.
838+
839+
840+
841+(2)A copy or facsimile of the document required for an applicant for a drivers license or identification card to establish the applicants true full name.
842+
843+
844+
845+(3)An applicant unable to establish legal presence in the United States may fulfill the true full name and date of birth requirement by providing the department a copy or facsimile of the documents used to establish identity pursuant to Section 12801.9.