REG 353 Form – If you’re a dealer or manufacturer of special construction equipment, tow dollies, logging vehicles, cemetery equipment, special mobile equipment, or implements of husbandry in California, you need a Special Identification (ID) Plate to legally operate or move that equipment on public highways during sales demonstrations or delivery. The official form to apply is the REG 353 – Application for Special Identification Plate Dealer – Manufacturer.
This SEO-optimized guide explains everything you need to know about the REG 353 form, who qualifies, how to complete it step-by-step, current fees, submission requirements, and where to download the latest official PDF directly from the California DMV.
What Is the REG 353 Form?
The REG 353 form is the California DMV’s official one-page application used by dealers and manufacturers of qualifying special equipment to request a Special Equipment (SE) Identification Plate.
These plates:
- Are issued under California Vehicle Code §§5016, 5016.5, and 36115(b).
- Display abbreviations identifying you as the dealer/manufacturer plus a unique number.
- Allow you to legally drive or transport unregistered special equipment on highways only for demonstration or delivery purposes.
Important: SE dealers and manufacturers do not need a full DMV occupational license to use these plates.
Who Needs a REG 353 Special ID Plate?
You must use REG 353 if you:
- Sell or manufacture special construction equipment
- Deal in tow dollies
- Handle logging vehicles
- Produce cemetery equipment
- Work with special mobile equipment
- Manufacture or deal in implements of husbandry
Multiple plates can be issued to the same business. Each plate requires its own completed REG 353.
Current Fees (2026)
According to the latest DMV Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual (Appendix 1F):
- Original plate: $33
- Renewal (every 5 years): $33
- Substitute / replacement plate or ID card: $28
Note: Fees include the Alternative Fuel/Technology SE surcharge where applicable. Always verify the exact amount with your local DMV office or the current handbook, as fees can change.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the REG 353 Form?
The form is straightforward and designed to be completed in minutes. Here’s exactly what to include (based on the official REV. 7/2007 version currently in use):
- Firm Name – Legal business name
- Address, City, State, ZIP Code – Business mailing address
- Local Business License Serial Number – Required; enter your city or county business license number
- Name of Authority Which Issued Business License – City or county name
- Have you previously been issued an identification plate?
- Check Yes and enter the plate number, or
- Check No
- Certification – Sign and date under penalty of perjury
- Print Name
- Daytime Telephone Number
- Additional Address (if different from business address)
Key requirement on the form: You must agree to return the plate to the DMV within 10 days of stopping business as a dealer/manufacturer, along with a completed Statement of Facts (REG 256).
Pro tip: Print clearly or type the form. DMV will assign the ID plate number after approval.
How to Submit Your REG 353 Application?
- Complete the form for each plate requested.
- Include your local business license information.
- Pay the applicable fee ($33 for original plates).
- Submit to a California DMV office (field office or headquarters Special Processing Unit as directed).
The DMV does not currently offer fully online submission for REG 353. Most applicants submit in person or by mail at a local DMV office. For exact submission instructions, visit the DMV forms page or contact your local office.
Official REG 353 PDF Download (Direct from DMV)
✅ Latest version (uploaded May 2025, still current as of 2026):
Download REG 353 Form PDF
This is the exact official document hosted on the California DMV website. Always download directly from dmv.ca.gov to ensure you have the most current version.
What Happens After Approval?
- You will receive your Special ID Plate(s).
- Display the plate on the equipment whenever it is operated or moved on public highways for demo or delivery.
- Keep the registration card or a copy with the vehicle.
- Renew every 5 years.
Surrender rules: If you stop operating as a dealer/manufacturer, return the plate and ID card within 10 days to DMV’s Special Processing Unit with a REG 256 form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply for more than one plate?
Yes — submit a separate REG 353 for each plate.
Q: Do I need to be a licensed DMV dealer?
No. SE dealers and manufacturers are exempt from standard occupational licensing for these plates.
Q: Is the form free?
Yes. The form itself is free to download; you only pay the plate fee when submitting.
Q: Where can I find the latest fees?
Refer to the DMV’s Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual – Appendix 1F or call your local DMV office.
Q: Is there a different form for regular dealer plates?
Yes. Regular auto dealer plates use different procedures and forms (see VC §11714–11715). REG 353 is specifically for special equipment plates.
Need More Help?
- Visit the official DMV Forms page: dmv.ca.gov/portal/forms
- Review the full handbook section on Dealer/Manufacturer SE Plates
- Contact your local California DMV office or the Special Processing Unit for application assistance
Stay compliant and keep your business moving — download the REG 353 PDF today and apply for your Special Identification Plate.
Last updated: April 2026. All information sourced directly from official California DMV publications and forms.