Handle driver's licenses, license plates, and disabled person placards in Oregon

After a loved one’s passing, you may need to deal with items such as driver’s licenses, license plates, and handicap placards that have specific rules governing how they are discarded. Because some of these items can be used toward identity theft, it is important you follow these rules. 

Driver’s License

The Oregon DMV receives death notifications electronically each month from the Center for Health Statistics and Vital Records, the Department of Human Services. Once received, the DMV will put a stop on the person’s record. 

If you prefer, you may submit a copy of a death notification so that they place a stop on the record immediately. 

Documents must clearly identify the deceased. Documents used to activate a stop include but are not limited to:

  • Death Certificate

  • Court documents

  • Obituary Notice

  • Funeral Notice

  • Police report or other notice from law enforcement

  • Signed statement containing the deceased person’s name and date of birth

  • DMV mail, such as a renewal notice, with a deceased notation and signature

  • Returned license with a signed note

Any of the following may be mailed to:

Attention: Driver Issuance Unit

1905 Lana Ave NE

Salem, OR 97314

Disabled Person Placard (Handicap Placard)

To prevent fraudulent use of a disabled parking permit, you are asked to return the permit with a note indicating why it is being returned to the Driver Issuance Unit at the address provided below. If you prefer you may also shred it.

Oregon Department of Transportation

Driver and Motor Vehicle Services

1905 Lana Ave NE

Salem, OR  97314

License Plates

Oregon license plates may be recycled, you do not need to mail them back.

Jennifer GoodoregonComment