REG 17 Form – The REG 17 Form is the official California DMV application for Special Interest License Plates (also called Environmental License Plates or ELPs). This form, officially titled “SPECIAL INTEREST OR ENVIRONMENTAL LICENSE PLATE (ELP) APPLICATION,” handles original issuance, replacements, reassignments, retentions, releases, or exchanges of these unique plates.
Special Interest License Plates let California drivers show support for causes like breast cancer awareness, veterans, kids, pets, arts, agriculture, coastal conservation, and more. These plates are personalized or sequential and belong to the plate owner—not the vehicle—so you can transfer them when you sell your car.
The current version is REG 17 (REV. 2 /2025), making it the most up-to-date form available as of 2026.
Why Use the REG 17 Form Instead of Online Ordering?
You can order new sequential or personalized Special Interest Plates directly online through the DMV website for faster processing. However, the REG 17 Form is required for:
- Replacements (lost, stolen, or damaged plates)
- Reassignments to another vehicle
- Retaining plates for future use
- Releasing interest in plates
- Gifts, renewals, conversions, or transfers
Online ordering is limited to original requests only. For everything else, download and mail the REG 17 PDF.
Official Download Link: REG 17 PDF (Latest 2025 Version)
Direct download the free official REG 17 Form here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/04/REG-17-R2-2025-ASB-WWW.pdf
This is the exact PDF hosted on the California DMV website. Always use this link to ensure you have the latest REV. 2 /2025 edition—no outdated versions or third-party copies.
Who Can Apply for California Special Interest License Plates?
Anyone who owns a vehicle currently registered in California can apply. Eligible vehicle types include:
- Automobiles
- Trucks/commercial vehicles
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
Important restrictions:
- The vehicle cannot be on Planned Non-Operation (PNO) status.
- Plates must comply with California regulations (13 CCR 206.02 for personalized configurations).
- Special recognition plates (e.g., certain veterans or organizations) may require the separate REG 17A form instead.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out and Submit the REG 17 Form?
- Choose your plate type (Section 1) – Breast Cancer Awareness, Environmental (ELP), Kids, Pet Lovers, Veterans, Yosemite, Whale Tail, etc.
- Select configuration (Section 2) – Sequential (next available in series) or Personalized.
- Provide vehicle details – VIN and current plate number (for sequential plates, include a copy of your registration card).
- Handle special cases:
- Replacement: Complete Section 3 (lost, stolen, mutilated).
- Reassign/Retain/Release: Complete Section 4.
- Enter your information (Section 5) – Name, address, and gift statement if applicable.
- Sign and date (Section 6) – Include phone and optional email.
- Add payment – Check or money order (no cash). Exact fees are listed on the DMV Special Interest Plates Fees page.
Pro tip for personalized plates: Use / for ½ space and * for full space. Kids plates require circling a symbol (heart, star, hand, or plus). The DMV may refuse offensive or conflicting configurations.
Mail the completed form and payment to:
DMV SPU, Mail Station D238
P.O. Box 932345
Sacramento, CA 94232-3450
You can also pick up plates at a DMV office or participating Auto Club (members only).
Fees, Processing Time, and Important Notes
The REG 17 form itself does not list fees—check the official DMV Special Interest License Plates Fees page for current costs, including application, issuance, and annual retention fees.
Key warnings:
- No changes or refunds after submission.
- Both plates lost/stolen? You cannot reissue the exact same configuration.
- Annual retention fee applies if you keep plates without assigning them immediately.
Processing typically takes several weeks by mail. Track status via the DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133.
Common Questions About REG 17 Special Interest Plates
Can I order online instead?
Yes—for original sequential or personalized plates only. Use the DMV’s online portal and skip the REG 17 form.
What if I’m selling my car?
Remove the plates before transfer. You can reassign them immediately, retain them (pay annual fee), or surrender them.
Do motorcycle plates look different?
Yes—they use 2-5 characters (or up to 7 for some ELP types) and include a special interest decal.
Is the form free?
Yes—the PDF download is completely free from the official DMV site.
Get Your California Special Interest Plates Today
The REG 17 Form makes it simple and official to customize your vehicle with meaningful California Special Interest License Plates. Download the latest 2025 PDF, follow the clear sections, and submit your application for fast approval.
Ready to apply?
Click here to download the REG 17 PDF now: Official REG 17 Form (REV. 2 /2025)
For the most current details, always visit the California DMV’s Special Interest License Plates page. Drive with pride—your personalized plate is just one form away!