They say it takes two to three weeks to get your placard in the mail. My aunt’s arrived in ten days, which is basically a miracle for any government agency. She was thrilled, then immediately panicked because she lost it in her purse for a week. (Classic Carol.)
The irony? Once you get the placard, you’ll suddenly notice how every parking spot is taken by someone who looks suspiciously capable of running a marathon. Is it Karen from yoga pants? Maybe. But don’t be that person who judges. The placard covers invisible disabilities, too. Your job isn’t to police the lot; it’s to park and enjoy your slightly shorter walk into Target.
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Temporary or Permanent? Choose Your Flavor
New Jersey offers temporary placards for conditions expected to last less than six months—like after a surgery or a bad break. Just have your doctor note the expiration date on the form. And for the long haul? A permanent placard is renewable every four years. My aunt went permanent because, let’s be honest, those knees aren’t getting any younger.
Oh, and don’t lose the placard. Replacement costs $6 and involves another visit to the MVC. Aunt Carol now keeps hers in a special zippered pocket inside her purse. She calls it the “golden ticket,” which is both dramatic and accurate.