How to apply for California Disabled Veteran (DV) License Plates — Registration Fee Exemption

Who it's for

California issues Disabled Veteran license plates that waive all vehicle registration and license fees on one vehicle, for veterans with a qualifying permanent service-connected disability. Qualifying conditions include a 100% VA disability rating due to a diagnosed disease or disorder that substantially impairs mobility, inability to move without an assistive device, loss of use of one or more limbs, or permanent blindness. DV plates also allow parking in disabled-person spaces, at blue curbs, and at metered spaces at no charge. Apply at any DMV office with the certification form REG 256V; there is no application fee.

What you'll need

• Certification for Disabled Veterans License Plates (form REG 256V), or a VA certification letter in place of the medical certification
• Current vehicle registration and the current license plates
• Proof of identity (driver's license or state ID)

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Confirm you meet the eligibility requirements. A 100% VA disability rating qualifies only when the rated disease or disorder substantially impairs mobility. Veterans at any rating level may also qualify through loss of use of one or more limbs, permanent blindness, or being unable to move without an assistive device — so do not rule yourself out based on rating alone.
2. Obtain form REG 256V, the Certification for Disabled Veterans License Plates. A California DMV office can provide this form, or you may be able to access it through the DMV. Have a licensed physician or VA certifier complete the medical section, or use a VA certification letter in place of the medical certification portion.
3. Gather your required documents: the completed form REG 256V (or VA certification letter), your current vehicle registration, your current license plates, and your proof of identity (driver's license or state ID).
4. Choose one qualifying vehicle for the exemption. The vehicle may be a passenger vehicle, motorcycle, or light commercial vehicle not used for commercial purposes. The fee waiver applies to one vehicle only.
5. Submit your application. You may apply online through the California DMV or in person at any California DMV office. There is no application fee.
6. Once approved, attach the DV license plates to your qualifying vehicle. Keep your approval documentation for your records.

What to expect: After submitting, the California DMV will review your application and certification. Processing times vary, so contact the DMV directly for an estimate if needed. Once approved, you will receive Disabled Veteran license plates that waive all vehicle registration and license fees on your one qualifying vehicle. The DV plates also allow parking in disabled-person spaces, at blue curbs, and at metered spaces at no charge. Annual registration renewal is still required, but fees will continue to be waived on that vehicle each year — so watch for your renewal notice and respond on time to keep the benefit active.

Renewals

annual registration renewal continues, with the fees waived on the one qualifying vehicle