The US-NYS Chaplain Response Team (US-NYSCRT) issues vehicle identification placards solely for the purpose of identifying our trained chaplains while engaged in official chaplaincy duties, such as emergency response, community outreach, and crisis ministry.
These placards are considered an internal identification tool only and do not grant any form of legal authority, emergency vehicle status, or special driving/parking privileges under federal, state, or local law.
Important Notes:
- Not an Emergency Vehicle Designation
- The placard does not authorize the vehicle to operate with lights, sirens, or other emergency equipment.
- It does not exempt the driver from obeying all traffic laws and regulations.
- Not Law Enforcement or Government Issued
- The placard is not affiliated with, nor endorsed by, any federal, state, county, or municipal government agency.
- It must never be misrepresented as a government-issued credential or permit.
- Authorized Use Only
- The placard may only be displayed by current members of the US-NYSCRT who are in good standing.
- Misuse, duplication, or display by unauthorized persons is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action, revocation, or referral to law enforcement.
- Community Recognition Purpose
- The placard is intended to help community members, partner organizations, and emergency services recognize US-NYSCRT chaplains at designated response sites.
- Its display is meant to provide visibility, professionalism, and clarity during outreach or crisis situations.
- Issuance
- Vehicle placards are issued only to active, authorized members of US-NYSCRT who are in good standing.
- Each placard is non-transferable and may only be used by the chaplain to whom it is issued.
- Placards must be displayed inside the vehicle windshield during official US-NYSCRT callouts, events, or assignments.
- Expiration & Renewal
- All placards will have a clearly marked expiration date printed on the front.
- Standard validity period: 1 year from the date of issuance.
- Renewal requires:
- Confirmation of active membership status.
- Review of updated credentials and background checks (if applicable).
- Payment of any applicable renewal or replacement fee.
- Prohibited Use
- Placards may not be used for personal convenience, parking privileges, or to evade traffic laws.
- Unauthorized use may result in revocation of placard privileges and disciplinary action.
- Verification
- Law enforcement, emergency services, and partner agencies may verify placard validity through US-NYSCRT records.
- Expired placards must be returned or destroyed immediately upon request.
- Replacement
- Lost, stolen, or damaged placards must be reported immediately.
- A replacement may be issued after verification and approval by the Command Staff.
By accepting and displaying a US-NYSCRT placard, the chaplain acknowledges and agrees to these terms of use.
