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The SP41 form is an essential application for vehicle license plates and placards specifically designated for persons with disabilities in New Jersey. This document streamlines the process for individuals seeking special identification and parking privileges, providing vital information to state agencies. The form covers various application types, including initial applications, recertifications, and replacements. Additionally, applicants can choose to request license plates, placards, or both. Several sections within the form collect necessary personal and medical details, ensuring compliance with eligibility requirements. For instance, Section A captures the applicant's personal information, while Section E focuses on medical certification verifying the disability. It is crucial for applicants to understand that using this form comes with responsibilities, including adherence to specific terms and conditions that govern the use of the issued plates or placards. Moreover, the importance of accurate information cannot be overstated; providing false claims can lead to significant legal repercussions. Exploring the ins and outs of the SP41 form helps ensure that individuals with disabilities can navigate mobility challenges more effectively and access the spaces they need.

Sp41 Example

Application for Vehicle License Plates

and/or Placard for Persons

with a Disability

Management Operation Services Special Plate Unit

225 East State Street P.O. Box 015 Trenton, NJ 08666

609-292-6500 ext. 5061

This is my: Initial Application

Recertification Application

Replacement Application

I am applying for: License Plates Placard

Both

SECTION A: PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY IDENTIFICATION CARD INFORMATION

Name of Person with a Disability

Street Address

City, State, Zip Code

Driver License Number

Expiration Date

Date of Birth

Sex

Eye Color

Height

Weight

Daytime Telephone Number

I acknowledge that I hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL) and that this application may result in a medical review that could result in a decision that may affect my New Jersey CDL privilege.

Current Plate Number: _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Current Placard Number (for recertification applications): __________________________________________________________________

SECTION B: WHEELCHAIR SYMBOL LICENSE PLATES (Photocopy of Registration Required)

Registered Vehicle Owner’s Name

Vehicle Plate Number

Expiration Date

Registered Vehicle Owner’s Driver License Number

Expiration Date

Street Address

City, State, Zip Code

Relationship to the Disabled Applicant: Self Spouse Parent Guardian Other (Please Specify): _______________

SECTION C: REPLACEMENT PLATES, PLACARD AND/OR IDENTIFICATION CARD

License Plates

Placard

Identification Card

Vehicle Plate Number

Placard Number

Expiration Date

Expiration Date

Check One: Lost – attach a notarized statement of loss.

Damaged – return plate(s), placard, and/or both

Stolen – plate(s), placard – attach police report

SECTION D: CERTIFICATION OF STATEMENTS

I certify, under penalty of law, that the statements on this application are true.

Signature of Registered Vehicle Owner: ______________________________________________________ Date: _____________________

Signature of Person with a Disability: ________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________

Visit us at www.NJMVC.gov

New Jersey is an Equal Opportunity Employer

SP-41 (R11/20)

Application for Vehicle License Plates

and/or Placard for Persons

with a Disability

SECTION E: MEDICAL PRACTITIONER OR DISABLED VETERAN CERTIFICATION

Name of Medical Practitioner or Representative of the U.S.D.V.A.

Street Address

City, State, Zip Code

Daytime Telephone Number

Required prescription attached Required letterhead attached (ONLY for medical practitioners who are not authorized to write prescriptions OR a representative of the U.S.D.V.A.)

By law, eligibility for license plates and/or a placard for persons with a disability is limited to the following conditions. (NO OTHER PERSON IS ELIGIBLE FOR LICENSE PLATES AND/OR A PLACARD).

Patient Name (please print): _________________________________________________________________________________________

1.Has lost the use of one or more limbs as a consequence of paralysis, amputation, or other permanent disability.

2.Is severely and permanently disabled and cannot walk without the use of or assistance from a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair or other assistive device.

3.Suffers from lung disease to such an extent that the applicant’s forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second, when measured by a spirometry, is less than one liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty mm/hg on room air at rest; or uses portable oxygen.

4.Has a cardiac condition to the extent that the applicant’s functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to standards set by the American Heart Association.

5.Is severely and permanently limited in the ability to walk because of an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition; or cannot walk two hundred feet without stopping to rest.

6.Has a permanent sight impairment of both eyes as certified by the NJ Commission for the Blind (Placard only).

I CERTIFY, UNDER PENALTY OF LAW, THAT MY PATIENT (print name) ___________________________________________________

HAS BEEN PERSONALLY EXAMINED BY ME AND MEETS THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AS SPECIFIED IN ITEM NUMBER(S) (select from above) ________________ AND THUS MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE RECEIPT OF LICENSE PLATES AND/OR A

PLACARD FOR PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY.

Signature of Medical Practitioner or Representative of the U.S.D.V.A.: ________________________________________________________

SECTION F: TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1.Pursuant of N.J.S.A. 2C: 21-4(a), N.J.S.A. 2C: 43-3, and N.J.S.A. 2C: 43-6, making a false statement or providing misinformation on an application to obtain or facilitate the receipt of license plates or placards for persons with disabilities is a fourth-degree crime and a person who has been convicted of this offense may be subject to pay a fine not to exceed $10,000 and a term of imprisonment of up to 18 months.

2.Wheelchair symbol license plates may be issued for one vehicle owned, operated or leased by a person with a disability or family member providing transportation for that person.

3.Wheelchair symbol license plates must be renewed every year, disability recertification is required every three years.

4.The placard must be displayed on the rearview mirror of the vehicle whenever such vehicle is parked in a designated wheelchair symbol parking space and must be removed when the vehicle is in motion.

5.Persons with a Disability Identification Card and placards must be recertified every three years.

6.The Motor Vehicle Commission requires that a person’s disability be recertified by a qualified medical practitioner and their qualification for license plates/placard as provided under N.J.A.C. 13:20-9.1(a) 4.

7.The persons with a Disability placard and/or license plates are to be used exclusively for a person with a disability named on the identification card. The identification card is nontransferable and shall be revoked is used by any other person. If the license plate and/or placard are no longer used by the person named on the identification card, they must be returned to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Abuse of this privilege is cause for revocation of both the license plates and/or the placard.

8.Application for a Persons with a Disability Identification Card shall be submitted to the Motor Vehicle Commission not more than 60 days following the date upon which a medical professional or representative of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs certifies that the applicant meets the definition of “persons with a disability.”

I CERTIFY, UNDER THE PENALTY OF LAW, THAT I AGREE WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS APPLICATION.

Signature of Registered Vehicle Owner: ______________________________________________ Date: _____________________________

Signature of Person with a Disability: ________________________________________________ Date: _____________________________

Visit us at www.NJMVC.gov

New Jersey is an Equal Opportunity Employer

SP-41 (R11/20)

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Title of the Form Application for Vehicle License Plates and/or Placard for Persons with a Disability
Form Number SP-41
Governing Law N.J.S.A. 39:3-27.6
Responsible Agency New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC)
Submission Deadline Application must be submitted within 60 days following medical certification
Recertification Frequency License plates and placards require recertification every three years
Usage Limitation License plates and placards must be used exclusively by the identified person with a disability
Medical Certification Requirement A medical practitioner or representative of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs must certify disability
False Statement Penalty Misinformation may result in a fourth-degree crime, punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and/or 18 months imprisonment
Contact Information NJMVC Special Plate Unit, P.O. Box 015, Trenton, NJ 08666, Phone: 609-292-6500 ext. 5061

Guidelines on Utilizing Sp41

After completing the SP-41 form, you will submit it to the appropriate authorities for processing. Ensure that all required documents are attached to prevent any delays in receiving your license plates or placard.

  1. Begin by indicating the type of application you are submitting: check either Initial Application, Recertification Application, or Replacement Application.
  2. Select whether you are applying for License Plates, a Placard, or Both.
  3. Fill out SECTION A by providing the information for the Person with a Disability: name, street address, city, state, zip code, driver’s license number, expiration date, date of birth, sex, eye color, height, weight, and daytime telephone number.
  4. If applicable, acknowledge that you hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL) and understand the potential medical review consequences.
  5. If you are recertifying, enter the Current Plate Number and Current Placard Number.
  6. In SECTION B, provide the details for the registered vehicle owner, including their name, vehicle plate number, expiration date, driver’s license number and expiration date, street address, city, state, zip code, and relationship to the disabled applicant.
  7. For SECTION C, if applying for replacement items, specify whether they are License Plates, a Placard, or an Identification Card. Provide vehicle plate number, placard number, expiration dates, and check the reason for replacement: Lost, Damaged, or Stolen.
  8. Complete SECTION D by certifying the truth of the statements provided and sign and date the signature lines for both the registered vehicle owner and the person with a disability.
  9. In SECTION E, a medical practitioner or a representative of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs must provide their information and certify the eligibility of the person with a disability based on specific conditions.
  10. Include any required supporting documentation such as a prescription or a letterhead if necessary.
  11. Lastly, review and sign SECTION F, agreeing to the terms and conditions laid out in the form. Ensure the signature and date fields are completed for both the registered vehicle owner and the person with a disability.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the SP-41 form?

The SP-41 form is an application used to request vehicle license plates or placards for persons with a disability in New Jersey. Individuals may apply for initial license plates, a placard, or request to recertify or replace existing plates or placards. This form is crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to parking accommodations that facilitate their mobility.

Who is eligible to apply for license plates or placards using the SP-41 form?

Eligibility is limited to individuals who meet specific medical criteria. This includes individuals who have lost the use of limbs, cannot walk without assistance, suffer from severe lung or cardiac conditions, or have significant sight impairments. A qualified medical practitioner must certify that the applicant meets these requirements, and their signature is required on the form.

What documents are necessary for the SP-41 application?

Applicants must provide several supporting documents. These include a current prescription or letterhead from a medical practitioner if they are not authorized to write prescriptions. Additionally, for recertification applications, the current placard number is needed. If you're applying for a replacement, documentation regarding the loss or damage of the item must also be submitted, such as a police report for stolen items or a notarized statement for lost items.

How often do I need to recertify my disability status for the license plates or placard?

Individuals must recertify their disability status every three years. This process requires a new certification from a qualified medical practitioner to confirm that the individual still meets the criteria for receiving disability plates or placards.

What should I do if I no longer need my license plates or placard?

If the license plates or placard are no longer needed, they must be returned to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). Failure to do so may result in penalties, as the use of these plates or placards is strictly regulated and non-transferable. This helps ensure that the parking privileges are reserved for those who genuinely require them.

Common mistakes

When filling out the SP-41 form, applicants often make several common mistakes. Understanding these errors can help streamline the process and ensure the application is processed smoothly.

One frequent mistake is failing to check the right application type. The form allows for initial applications, recertification, and replacement requests. Neglecting to indicate which type of application is being submitted can lead to delays or outright rejection.

Another common error occurs in Section A, where applicants need to provide personal details. Errors in writing the name, address, or even the driver’s license number can create complications. It is essential to double-check this information for accuracy to avoid potential misunderstandings.

The signature section also tends to cause issues. Both the registered vehicle owner and the person with a disability must sign the application. If one of these signatures is missing, or if there is a discrepancy in the names, the application may be deemed incomplete.

In Section E, proper medical certification is necessary. Forgetting to attach the required prescription or letterhead can stall the process. Be vigilant about ensuring all required documents are included with the form.

Another mistake people often make is in the selection of eligibility criteria in the medical certification section. It is crucial that the medical practitioner accurately selects the items that apply to the applicant’s condition. Incorrect or incomplete selections may jeopardize the applicant's chance of receiving the license plates or placard.

For those applying for replacement plates or placards, clarity is key in Section C. Failing to specify whether the item was lost, damaged, or stolen can result in misunderstandings that could delay the processing time. Provide as much detail as possible regarding the state of the item.

Some applicants may overlook the need for supporting documentation when indicating that a placard or plate was stolen. A police report must accompany the application, and without it, the request often cannot be processed.

Lastly, one of the more significant issues arises from a misunderstanding regarding usage. Applicants sometimes believe they can transfer plates or placards to different individuals. However, these items are strictly non-transferable and are intended solely for the designated person with a disability, as stated in the terms and conditions. Misuse can lead to revocation and penalties.

By being aware of these common mistakes, applicants can navigate the SP-41 form process more effectively and increase their chances of a successful submission.

Documents used along the form

The SP-41 form is crucial for obtaining vehicle license plates or placards designated for individuals with disabilities in New Jersey. To assist applicants, several related forms and documents may also be necessary. Below is a list of these documents commonly used alongside the SP-41 form.

  • Medical Certification Form: This document, often required for initial applications, provides official verification from a qualified medical professional confirming that the applicant meets specific disability criteria.
  • Police Report: If a placard or license plate has been stolen, applicants must submit a copy of the police report as proof of theft with their application.
  • Notarized Statement of Loss: For lost items, this statement affirms that the applicant is requesting a replacement of lost plates or placards, often requiring notarization to validate the claim.
  • Proof of Residency: This document typically includes a utility bill or lease agreement that confirms the applicant’s current address, ensuring that the application is being made by a resident of New Jersey.
  • Driver's License Copy: A copy of the applicant's valid driver’s license may be required to verify their identity and further corroborate their eligibility for the disability plates or placards.
  • Application for Renewal of Disability Placard: Those needing to renew their placards must complete this form to demonstrate ongoing eligibility and submit any required updates or medical documentation.
  • Required Prescription or Letterhead: If a medical practitioner is not authorized to write prescriptions, a letter on official letterhead may be needed to verify the applicant's medical condition.

Gathering these documents can streamline the application process and ensure compliance with all requirements. It is advisable to review each document’s purpose carefully to avoid delays. Proper preparation means a smoother application experience for those seeking the necessary accommodations for their disabilities.

Similar forms

  • Application for Disabled Parking Permit: Like the SP-41 form, this document is used to request a permit for accessible parking based on disability status. Both forms require personal information and must be certified by a medical professional to confirm eligibility.
  • Vehicle Registration Form: This form is similar in that it requires information about the vehicle owner and the vehicle to be registered. Both documents necessitate detailed identification information, including the owner’s name, address, and driver’s license number.
  • ID Card Application for Persons with Disabilities: This application is focused solely on obtaining an identification card for individuals with disabilities. Like the SP-41, it requires medical verification and personal details of the applicant.
  • Replacement License Plate Application: Aimed at those needing to replace lost or damaged license plates, this form mirrors the SP-41 in that it allows individuals to claim their rights to vehicle licensing while also requiring identification and reason for the replacement.
  • Commercial Driver’s License Medical Application: Similar to the SP-41, this document requires medical certification to assess the driver’s ability and eligibility. It involves the applicant providing personal details and undergoing medical examination requirements.
  • Application for Temporary Disability Parking Permit: This form addresses short-term needs for accessible parking and requires similar documentation as the SP-41, including medical verification of the temporary disability.
  • Veterans Disability Benefits Application: Though broader in scope, this document parallels the SP-41 in that it requires personal and medical information to establish conditions for disability recognition by government entities.
  • State-Specific Disability Verification Form: This form serves a similar purpose in verifying disability status for various benefits. It shares with SP-41 the need for personal identification and medical confirmation, underscoring eligibility for disability-related services.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the SP-41 form for vehicle license plates or placards for persons with a disability can feel daunting. Yet, a few simple guidelines can ensure that the process is both efficient and straightforward. Here are seven dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do ensure that all information is complete and accurate to prevent delays.
  • Do include required documentation such as prescriptions or letters as specified.
  • Do sign and date the form where required, acknowledging your understanding of the terms.
  • Don’t neglect to double-check your contact information for accuracy.
  • Don’t submit the application without the appropriate identification and proof of disability.
  • Don’t use any abbreviations or shorthand that could cause confusion in your application.

By adhering to these guidelines, applicants can significantly improve the likelihood of a smooth application process and minimize frustration.

Misconceptions

Understanding the SP-41 form can be quite daunting due to various common misconceptions. This form is essential for individuals looking to obtain vehicle license plates or placards for persons with disabilities in New Jersey. Here are some prevalent myths debunked:

  • Anyone can apply for a disability placard. Many people believe that anyone can receive a disability placard. However, only those who meet specific criteria set by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission are eligible. These requirements range from severe mobility limitations to other medical conditions.
  • The SP-41 form is only for new applicants. A misconception exists that the form solely caters to new applications. In reality, it is designed for initial applications, recertifications, and replacements. So, whether you’re applying for the first time or need to renew or replace your placard, this form is relevant.
  • You only need a doctor’s signature for initial applications. While a medical practitioner’s certification is indeed necessary, the form requires not just a signature but specific details on the individual’s disability. This ensures compliance with eligibility requirements.
  • Once obtained, disability plates or placards do not expire. Many individuals wrongly assume that obtaining a placard or license plate is a one-time process. In fact, these items require recertification every three years and renewal yearly, reinforcing the ongoing verification of eligibility.
  • Anyone can use the placard as long as they know the person with a disability. A common misconception is that placards can be used by friends or family members of the disabled person. In truth, the placard is strictly designated for the individual named on it and is nontransferable, highlighting the importance of proper use.
  • A police report is not necessary when a placard is stolen. Many believe that they do not need to file a police report if their placard is lost or stolen. However, a police report is indeed required for stolen placards, which helps law enforcement track potential abuses of the system.
  • You can renew your placard online without additional documentation. Some individuals believe they can renew their placard online easily. However, if it’s a recertification, a medical practitioner must confirm the ongoing disability status, which may involve submitting additional documentation.
  • The SP-41 form can be submitted anytime. There is a misunderstanding about the timeframe for submitting the SP-41 form. The application should be submitted no more than 60 days after receiving certification from a medical professional. This timeframe is crucial to avoid lapses in eligibility.

These misconceptions can lead to challenges during the application process. By understanding the facts surrounding the SP-41 form, applicants can navigate their needs more effectively.

Key takeaways

When filling out the SP-41 form for vehicle license plates or placards for persons with disabilities, several key points should be kept in mind:

  • Application Types: Identify whether the application is initial, recertification, or replacement before beginning to fill out the form.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Understand the specific medical conditions that qualify for license plates or placards, which include mobility impairments and severe disabilities.
  • Accurate Information: Provide correct personal details, including the name, address, driver’s license number, and specifics regarding the disability.
  • Medical Practitioner Certification: Ensure that a medical professional or representative from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs certifies the application. A required prescription or letterhead must be attached if applicable.
  • Notarized Statements: If the license plates or placards are lost or damaged, include a notarized statement of loss or return the damaged items as necessary.
  • Wheelchair Symbol Plates: Note that wheelchair symbol license plates are issued for one vehicle only, which can belong to the person with a disability or their family member.
  • Renewal and Recertification: License plates must be renewed annually, while disability recertification should occur every three years.
  • Proper Display: Always display the placard on the rearview mirror when parking in designated spaces, removing it while the vehicle is in motion.
  • Terms of Use: Understand that the placard and license plates are nontransferable. Misuse can lead to revocation.

This information is crucial for ensuring a smooth application process and compliance with the relevant regulations.