Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption
Free DV license plates and registration fee exemption for veterans with permanent service-connected disability meeting specific mobility/blindness criteria.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Transportation — California
- Who it's for
- Veterans
- VA rating needed
- 100% or higher
- Estimated value
- $200-$500+/year
- Where it applies
- California
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption?
Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption is a California transportation benefit for veterans. Free DV license plates and registration fee exemption for veterans with permanent service-connected disability meeting specific mobility/blindness criteria. Requires 100%+ VA disability rating. The listed value is $200-$500+/year.
Who qualifies
- Requires 100%+ VA disability rating
- California residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Veteran with permanent service-connected disability meeting ONE of the following criteria (per CA DMV — same criteria apply to BOTH the DV plates AND the registration fee exemption):
(a) 100% service-connected rating with a diagnosed condition that substantially impairs mobility,
(b) cannot move without the aid of an assistive device,
(c) loss of use of one or more limbs, OR
(d) permanent blindness per CA Welfare & Institutions Code §19153.
What Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption covers
Covers
DV plate identifying the vehicle PLUS exemption from all vehicle registration and license fees on ONE vehicle (passenger vehicle, motorcycle, or commercial vehicle under 8,000 lbs unladen, not used for hire).
Estimated savings
Typically $200-$500+/year in registration fees.
How to apply for Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption
How to apply
Submit form REG 256V to CA DMV with medical certification from a licensed healthcare provider OR from a County Veterans Service Officer / VA representative.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: dmv.ca.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption
Who qualifies for Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption?▾
What VA disability rating do I need for Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption?▾
How much is Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption worth?▾
How do I apply for Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption?▾
Where can I verify Disabled Veteran License Plates & Registration Exemption?▾
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