Benefits · Transportation
How to apply for California Disabled Veteran (DV) License Plates — Registration Fee Exemption
California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
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.
A 100% rating qualifies only when the rated disease or disorder substantially impairs mobility. Veterans at any rating level also qualify through loss of use of one or more limbs, permanent blindness, or being unable to move without an assistive device — those paths are not captured by this check, so a veteran below 100% with one of those conditions should still apply. The exemption covers one vehicle (passenger vehicle, motorcycle, or light commercial vehicle not used commercially).
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
Apply online: official application
Renewals
annual registration renewal continues, with the fees waived on the one qualifying vehicle
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.