The Ontario government is introducing new accessible parking permits with enhanced security features aimed at preventing misuse.

Starting this week, ServiceOntario will issue the new permits that are easier to verify and more difficult to duplicate.

The changes only apply to new permits.

Current permits remain valid and do not have to be re-issued. The medical criteria to receive a permit remain the same.

The new changes include:

Machine readable barcodes, raised markings and serial numbers to help confirm that a permit is authentic

Permits will no longer be laminated because it prevents the verification of the security features (laminating a new permit will make it invalid)

A person applying on someone else's behalf will need to show a letter of authorization or Power of Attorney document

Applicants must show identification that includes their legal name, date-of-birth and signature such as a driver's licence or passport

The province expects the improvements will reduce any misuse and ensure accessible parking spaces are available to those who need them.

Almost 700,000 permits are currently in circulation across Ontario.