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New York State Police Introduce Autism Awareness –
Visor Card Program
Published: September 18, 2025
at 11:30 a.m.
By: Press Release
from New York State Police
New York State Police Introduce Autism Awareness –
Visor Card Program
 The New York
State Police today announced the introduction of the Autism
Awareness – Visor Card Program, designed to assist both members of law
enforcement and individuals with autism during public interactions.
Over the past
several decades, diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have become
increasingly more prevalent. It is estimated that one in every forty-five
adults in the United States has autism. Common core symptoms may include:
- Challenges with communication and social
interaction, including difficulty engaging in conversation or making
eye contact
- Repetitive behaviors, such as repeating a
word, phrase, or gesture multiple times
- Heightened sensitivity to lights, sounds, or
smells
Individuals with
autism may face unique challenges during interactions with law enforcement
due to communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and difficulties
with social interaction. These challenges can make it harder to understand
instructions, provide requested information, or respond appropriately,
which may lead to misunderstandings.
With more than
one million public contacts annually, State Police members will inevitably
interact with individuals on the autism spectrum. To support these
encounters and improve communication, the Division has developed the Autism
Awareness – Visor Card.
The card features
simple visual icons that Troopers can use to assist with communication and
reduce confusion or fear during interactions. Each patrol vehicle will be
equipped with a card for use as needed. In addition, members of the public
will be able to download and print the card directly from the New York
State Police public website.
The Autism
Awareness – Visor Card Program will be rolled out statewide in the
coming weeks.
For more
information or to download the card, please visit https://troopers.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2025/09/autism-card-v2.pdf
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