A disabled parking placard in Starr County runs through the tax office

A disabled parking placard isn't something you order online from the state. In Starr County it comes from the Tax Assessor-Collector at 100 N. FM 3167 in Rio Grande City, the same counter that handles your registration and titles. There are substations in La Victoria and Roma too, so an older relative on that end of the county doesn't have to make the full drive to the seat.

The paperwork is Form VTR-214. You fill out your part, but the disability statement section has to be completed and signed by a licensed health-care provider, a doctor, physician assistant, or advanced practice nurse, unless you already hold a qualifying VA or other approved proof. A permanent placard is good for four years before it needs renewing.

One thing to keep in mind: a permanent placard can usually be renewed by mail without a fresh doctor's signature each time, while a temporary one tied to a healing injury expires sooner and needs the medical sign-off again. Bring the completed form and the provider's signature in one trip and you walk out the same day.