REG 256V Form: Certification for Disabled Veterans Plates PDF – If you’re a disabled veteran in California seeking exempt vehicle registration fees and special Disabled Veteran (DV) license plates, the REG 256V form is the key document you need. Officially titled Certification for Disabled Veterans License Plates, this California DMV form verifies your eligibility under California Vehicle Code §295.7.
The current version (NEW 4/2024 / N4-2024) is available as a free official PDF directly from the DMV website. You can download the REG 256V PDF here:
Download REG 256V Form (Official PDF)
This guide walks you through everything: eligibility, how to complete the form, the application process, benefits, and frequently asked questions.
What Is the REG 256V Form?
The REG 256V is a dedicated DMV certification form used exclusively for Disabled Veteran License Plates (often called DV plates). It certifies that you meet the legal definition of a “disabled veteran” and qualifies you for:
- Special DV license plates
- Full exemption from vehicle registration and license fees (for one vehicle only)
It replaced or streamlined earlier miscellaneous certification forms (like parts of REG 256A) for this specific benefit. The form is revised as of April 2024 and remains the current version listed on the official DMV forms page.
Who Qualifies for California Disabled Veteran License Plates?
You must be a veteran who became permanently disabled as a result of injury or disease incurred while on active service in the U.S. Armed Forces. According to California Vehicle Code §295.7, you qualify if you meet any one of these conditions:
- You have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) due to a diagnosed disease or disorder that substantially impairs or interferes with mobility.
- You are so severely disabled that you cannot move without the aid of an assistive device.
- You have lost, or lost the use of, one or more limbs.
- You have permanent blindness, as defined in California Welfare and Institutions Code §19153.
The disability must be service-connected and verified through medical certification or VA/CVSO documentation.
How to Fill Out the REG 256V Form (Step-by-Step)?
The form is straightforward and designed for easy completion. Here’s what each section requires:
Section 1 – Applicant Information
- Vehicle details (current plate number, VIN, year/make)
- Your full legal name, date of birth, mailing and physical addresses
- Driver license or ID number
- Check the box(es) that match your qualifying disability (from the list above)
Section 2 – Applicant Certification
- You sign under penalty of perjury, confirming you are the disabled veteran, the vehicle is not for hire/profit, and you understand the one-vehicle limit and surrender rules.
Section 3 – Requirements
- Reminds you to provide proof of identity and one of the certifications below.
Section 4 – Medical Certification (or Alternative)
- A licensed medical professional (physician, surgeon, chiropractor, optometrist, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or certified nurse-midwife) must sign and confirm your disability.
- Alternative options (no doctor signature needed):
- Certification from a County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO)
- Certification from an authorized CalVet representative
- Certification from an authorized U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs representative
Important Notes from the Form
- Plates must be surrendered to the DMV within 60 days of the veteran’s death.
- Only one vehicle per disabled veteran qualifies for the exemption.
- Mail completed applications to: Department of Motor Vehicles, Special Processing Unit, MS D238, P.O. Box 932345, Sacramento, CA 94232-0001.
Step-by-Step Application Process for DV Plates
- Download and complete the REG 256V form (link above).
- Obtain the required medical or VA/CVSO/CalVet certification.
- Gather supporting documents:
- Proof of true full name and date of birth (e.g., valid CA driver license/ID)
- Current vehicle registration card or new-registration documents
- Existing license plates (to be surrendered)
- Submit in person at any DMV field office (appointment recommended) or mail to the address on the form.
Processing typically results in new DV plates being issued with full fee exemption.
Benefits of California Disabled Veteran License Plates
- Full exemption from vehicle registration and license fees (one vehicle only).
- Special DV license plates with distinctive design.
- Parking privileges (additional Disabled Person (DP) placard may be required for full access—see DMV Disabled Person Parking Placards page).
- Applies to passenger vehicles, motorcycles, or commercial vehicles (unladen weight ≤ 8,000 lbs, not for hire).
Note: You cannot combine DV plates with certain other exempt plates (e.g., Ex-POW).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the REG 256V form free?
Yes – it’s available as a free official PDF download from the California DMV.
Do I need a doctor’s signature?
Not always. A signed certification from a County Veterans Service Officer, CalVet, or U.S. VA representative is accepted in lieu of medical certification.
Can I apply by mail?
Yes. The form includes the exact mailing address for the DMV Special Processing Unit.
What if my vehicle is already registered?
You must surrender your current plates when applying.
Are there any recent changes?
The current REG 256V (N4-2024) has been the official form since April 2024 and remains current.
Get Your REG 256V Form Today
Veterans who qualify can save hundreds of dollars annually on registration fees while displaying plates that honor their service. Don’t delay—download the official REG 256V PDF and start the process:
Official Download: REG 256V Certification for Disabled Veterans License Plates
For the latest instructions, visit the official DMV Disabled Veteran License Plates page: dmv.ca.gov Disabled Veteran Plates.
If you need help, contact your local County Veterans Service Office or a DMV field office. This benefit is one of many ways California honors disabled veterans.
All information is based on current official California DMV sources as of 2026. Always verify with the DMV for your specific situation.