A new state law is changing requirements for those with disabled veteran license plates  

Senate Bill 792 states that, starting Jan. 1, anyone parking in disabled parking spaces must have a license plate or disabled parking placard and features the International Symbol of Access (ISA).  

Current disabled veteran license plates don’t feature the ISA and all Texans with these plates are permitted to use disabled parking.  

Those with disabled veteran plates that want to use disabled parking spaces can apply for the placard or a plate with an ISA after Jan. 1. Applicants can submit their paperwork at their local county tax assessor-collector’s office.  

Current placards will remain valid, though the new requirements must be met at the time of renewal.  

Eligibility for placards and plates is based on medical conditions that meets the legal definition of a disability. These conditions include: 

• Visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses 
• Visual acuity of more than 20/200 but with a limited field of vision which the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle of 20 degrees or less.  
• Mobility problems that substantially impair a person’s ability to move around, such as  

• Paralysis 

• Lung disease 
• Uses portable oxygen 
• Cardiac deficiency 
• Wheelchair confinement 
• Arthritis, neurological or orthopedic condition 

• Foot disorder 
• Other medical condition causing a person to use a brace, cane, crutch or other assertive device 

Violation of state law to use the placard or plates for a disabled parking spot without the person with a disability in the vehicle can be subject to fines of up to $1,250 and/or up to 50 hours of community service.