REG 5046 Form – If you’re a non-U.S. citizen member of a NATO force or civilian component stationed in California, the REG 5046 Form (full title: NATO – North Atlantic Treaty Organization Vehicle License Fee and Transportation Improvement Fee Exemption) is the key document you need to claim your Vehicle License Fee (VLF) exemption under the NATO Status of Forces Agreement.
This official California DMV form allows eligible NATO personnel to register or renew a vehicle or trailer coach in California without paying the VLF or Transportation Improvement Fee—saving hundreds of dollars annually—provided the vehicle is not used for trade or business.
What Is the REG 5046 Form?
The REG 5046 is a one-page California DMV exemption statement specifically for members of NATO forces or civilian components who are not U.S. citizens. It certifies your eligibility for the VLF exemption authorized by 50 U.S.C. § 3998 and the NATO Status of Forces Agreement.
Key details on the form include:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, and license plate number
- Your NATO country and duty station in California
- Unit and commanding officer contact information
- Legal residence (non-U.S. country)
- Verification of your NATO ID, Movement Order, or passport
- Certification under penalty of perjury
The form is explicitly titled “NATO – NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION VEHICLE LICENSE FEE AND TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT FEE EXEMPTION” and is distinct from the REG 5045 form used by U.S. military personnel.
Who Needs the REG 5046 NATO Form?
You qualify if you meet all of these criteria:
- You are a member of a force or civilian component of a NATO country (not a U.S. citizen)
- Your duty station is located in California
- The vehicle is owned or leased by you (or your NATO unit) and registered/leased in your name
- The vehicle is not used in any trade or business
This exemption applies to initial registration, renewal, or transfer of the vehicle in California. Family members generally do not qualify unless the vehicle is jointly owned with the eligible NATO member.
How to Download the Official REG 5046 PDF (2024 Upload)?
Direct official download (current version):
Download REG 5046 Form PDF
(REV. 11/2019 – uploaded October 2024 by California DMV)
This is the exact file hosted on the official dmv.ca.gov website. Always download directly from the DMV to ensure you have the most current version.
Alternative official access: Visit the California DMV Forms page and search for “REG 5046” under the “North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Status of Forces Agreement” listing.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the REG 5046 Form?
- Enter vehicle details – VIN, make, and current or desired license number.
- Certify NATO membership – State you are a member of a force or civilian component of [your NATO country].
- Provide duty station information – Location in California, unit, and commanding officer’s telephone number for verification.
- List legal residence – Your home NATO country (not the United States).
- Verification section – DMV staff or authorized dealer will verify your NATO ID card, Movement Order, or passport and initial the form.
- Sign and date – Execute under penalty of perjury; include your full name, signature, daytime phone, and mailing address.
Tip: The information you provide is subject to Department of Defense verification and DMV audit.
How to Submit the REG 5046 Form to California DMV?
- In person — Bring the completed form + your NATO personal ID card (showing name, DOB, service organization, and photo) to any DMV office or authorized dealer/Business Partner Automation (BPA) station.
- By mail — NATO ID verification is not always required for mail-in applications, but include the completed REG 5046 with your registration renewal or new registration packet.
- Dealer/BPA — Many auto dealers and registration services can process it on the spot.
Once approved, you receive the VLF exemption for the current registration year. The exemption does not apply to other fees such as registration, title, or smog (if applicable).
Why the REG 5046 Form Matters for NATO Personnel?
The NATO Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) protects the legal status and tax exemptions of allied forces stationed in the United States. California DMV honors this federal agreement by providing the REG 5046 form, making vehicle ownership far more affordable for qualifying NATO members stationed here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the REG 5046 the same as the NATO SOFA form?
Yes—California DMV officially titles it “North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Status of Forces Agreement (REG 5046).”
Can I use this for a new vehicle purchase?
Yes. Submit it at the time of registration through a dealer or DMV.
What if I’m a U.S. citizen in NATO?
You do not qualify. U.S. service members use REG 5045 instead.
Is the form still current in 2026?
Yes. The DMV continues to list and host the REV. 11/2019 version as the official form.
Does the exemption cover Transportation Improvement Fee (TIF)?
Yes—the REG 5046 explicitly exempts both VLF and TIF.
Related DMV Resources for Military & NATO Personnel
- Vehicle Information for Military Personnel in California (official DMV guide)
- Nonresident Military Exemption (REG 5045) – for U.S. service members
- California DMV Forms page (search REG 5046)
Ready to claim your exemption?
Click here to download the official REG 5046 NATO Status of Forces Agreement PDF now
For the most accurate and up-to-date instructions, always refer to the California DMV website or consult your installation transportation office. This guide is based exclusively on official California DMV sources and the form itself.