Secretary of State online services expand to include accessible parking placard renewals

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson last Friday announced that Michigan residents can now conduct some accessible parking placard transactions online, saving time and even a trip to a branch office.

Those needing to renew a permanent disability placard can do so at Michigan.gov/SOS in minutes. Renewals can also be requested by mail or by scheduling a visit to a Secretary of State office. Temporary disability placards still require a person who needs an extension to submit a new application by mail or in person at a branch office.

“Every Michigan resident should have choices for conducting Secretary of State transactions that meet their individual needs,” said Benson. “Adding the option to renew accessible parking placards online removes a significant barrier to essential services for Michiganders with disabilities. We’ll continue to ensure that government works for everyone by offering more convenient ways to do business with us.”

In another improvement for Michiganders, replacing a permanent or temporary disability placard that has been lost, stolen, or destroyed can now also be done online. Previously, this could only be done by mailing or faxing in a request to the Department of State or by visiting an office in person.

Additionally, organizations that have permanent disability parking placards for their transport vehicles, such as rehabilitation centers/homes, home care services, and senior service programs, can now renew or replace them online.

Michigan issued about 250,000 accessible parking placards in the past 12 months and processes approximately 100,000 renewals and replacements each year that can now be completed online.

Benson’s administration has doubled the number of services available online and at self-service stations. More than 160 of the new machines have been installed across the state, mostly at Meijer, Kroger, and other grocery stores.

Most transactions are now conducted outside of Secretary of State offices, making it easy for those who need an office visit to schedule one and be in and out quickly—20 minutes or less on average.  

Residents can schedule their visit to be seen right away and confirm which documents they need to bring by visiting Michigan.gov/SOS or calling 888-SOS-MICH.