How to Apply for Disabled Veteran License Plates in California: Benefits, Eligibility, and Process
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As a veteran, you served your country. Now that you're home, it's time for your community to do something for you to show its appreciation and acknowledge your sacrifice. While many organizations offer different kinds of support for veterans, the California Department of Motor Vehicles provides specialty plates for certain qualified people.
The disabled veteran license plate in California is one small way to recognize and support the state's veteran population, which is the third-highest in the country. As of 2023, out of the country's total veteran population, about 5.27 million had a service-connected disability.
Service-related injuries, both mental and physical, may qualify you for a specialty license plate in California so you have an easier time getting around.
What Are Disabled License Plates in California?
Before delving into how to get a disabled veteran license plate in California, it's important to understand what it is. Basically, a California disabled veteran license plate is a special license plate that (1) recognizes your military service and (2) comes with special privileges — we'll get to more on this later.
The California DMV doesn't let just any member of the armed forces get this specialty plate. Service members must prove a service-related injury. That said, all service members are welcome to apply for regular military plates.
To receive a disabled veteran California license plate, you have to meet eligibility requirements. While the state doesn't discriminate against the various categories of veterans, it does call for particular prerequisites.
Eligibility Requirements for Disabled Veterans License Plates
The disabled veteran license plate in California is a privilege that comes with certain benefits. To ensure these plates go to those who most deserve and need them, the state established eligibility requirements.
You must have a permanent disability that occurred during active service with the U.S. Armed Forces. Injury and disease during your service count as long as the Department of Veterans Affairs or other veteran services responsible for your discharge classify the disability rating as 100 percent.
A 100 percent rating means the diagnosed disease or disorder substantially interferes with mobility or you cannot move without an assistive device. Examples of qualifying injuries include the loss of the use of one or more limbs or permanent blindness, as defined by the California Welfare and Institutions Code 19153.
Benefits of Having Disabled Veteran License Plates
Compared to standard California license plates, a disabled veteran California license plate comes with several extra benefits. For example, the state offers waivers for specialty plates. Disabled veteran plates are usually exempt from license fees and registration fees. Also, if you have an active FasTrak account, the plates allow you to drive toll-free on toll roads and toll facilities in the state.
Disabled veteran plates grant you parking privileges as well. You can park in spaces with the wheelchair symbol, blue curbs, and green curbs for as long as you want. You also qualify for free on-street meter parking.
If you are eligible, fill out the application for veterans plates and follow these instructions to receive them.
Step-by-Step Guide To Applying for Disabled Veteran License Plates
To apply for a disabled veteran license plate in California, you'll need to collect and submit several forms and pieces of information. The process essentially takes five steps:
- Request, print, or collect DMV form REG 256A: This form is for miscellaneous certifications. You'll need to complete Section A — Disabled Veteran Certification and sign Section F. You can request the form by phone (call 1-800-777-0133), online, or by visiting your local DMV office.
- Request form VS D-001: You can request this form from the County Veterans Service Offices. The form is for Veteran Status and Service-Connected Disability Verification.
- Request a VA PCGL 112 letter from the VA: The letter discusses your service-connected disabilities and provides a rating.
- Complete the forms and submit all paperwork: A licensed medical provider needs to complete the medical certification section of REG 256A. An authorized County Veterans Service Office employee must complete the specified section of form VS D-001.
- Provide proof of vehicle ownership: Proof includes the title or an existing registration. You should also have your driver's license and identification card.
Remember that to drive on state roadways legally, you must provide proof of California auto insurance within 30 days of registering your vehicle.
Additional Resources for Veterans in California
For more information about California disabled veteran license plates, you can check out the state's official DMV website. You can also head to CalVet to learn more about veteran benefits and services. Finally, the California Association of Veteran Service Agencies offers free veteran resources and discusses policy initiatives.
Start Saving With Affordable Car Insurance for Veterans
A disabled veteran license plate in California can make a difference in your life, making the places around you more accessible. For further benefits, look for car insurance in California that offers military and veteran discounts. Check out EverQuote to compare policies and find affordable options.