REG 5102 Form – If you’re a California state agency, department, or division looking to create a specialized license plate that promotes your official mission, the REG 5102 form is the official starting point. This guide explains everything about the REG 5102 Form: State Agency Sponsored Specialized License Plate Application, including its purpose, eligibility, step-by-step process, requirements, and direct PDF download link.
What Is the REG 5102 Form?
The REG 5102 (New 11/2014) is the official California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) form titled “State Agency Sponsored Specialized License Plate Application.” It allows qualifying state agencies to apply for a custom specialized license plate design, logo, and message that publicizes or promotes the agency’s official policy, mission, or work.
Unlike standard special interest plates (such as those available to nonprofits or individuals via REG 17 or REG 17A), REG 5102 is exclusively for state government entities. It is not for private organizations, nonprofits, individuals, or personal designs.
Key certification statements on the form include:
- The plate design must align strictly with the agency’s official work.
- The agency assumes full responsibility for design, marketing, and any related litigation.
- No state funds or subsidies can be used to meet application thresholds.
Who Needs the REG 5102 Form?
- California state agencies, departments, or divisions acting as plate sponsors.
- Authorized representatives who can sign on behalf of the agency.
Not eligible: Private citizens, nonprofits, businesses, or non-state entities.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply with REG 5102?
Follow these official DMV requirements to launch a state-sponsored specialized plate program:
- Complete the REG 5102 Form
Fill in the sponsor’s printed name, title, signature, and date. Certify all statements (Sections A–J). - Prepare Supporting Documents
- A detailed financial plan explaining how revenue from plate fees will be used.
- A sample copy of the proposed plate design, logo, and message (must use DMV’s license plate template and up to four colors).
- Sample application brochures, advertisements, FAQs, and webpage designs for DMV pre-approval.
- Collect Pre-Paid Applications
Gather at least 7,500 pre-paid applications from the public. Submit monthly reports during the 12- or 24-month collection period detailing:- Number of applications (sequential, personalized, or exchanges).
- Fees collected by plate type.
- Total applications and fees to date.
- Submit Everything to DMV
Once you reach 7,500 applications:- Provide an alphabetical listing of applicants (per California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Section 161.00).
- Submit copies of all applications.
- Transfer all collected fees via secure Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT).
- DMV Review & Production Timeline
- DMV coordinates with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Prison Industry Authority for approval (legibility, reflectivity, visibility, and size).
- Computer programming and testing begin only after 7,500 applications are verified (adds 10–12 months).
- Manufacturing and issuance take an additional 8–12 weeks.
Pro Tip: Marketing materials must receive DMV approval before public distribution.
Fees and Costs
- No application fee for submitting REG 5102 itself.
- The sponsoring agency covers design and printing costs for brochures and marketing.
- Plate purchasers pay standard DMV specialized plate fees (a portion supports the agency’s designated purpose).
- Computer programming costs are covered by DMV once the 7,500 threshold is met.
Important Requirements & Warnings
- Minimum 7,500 pre-paid applications required before production.
- The plate cannot promote private interests, persons, or non-state entities.
- The agency must indemnify and hold harmless the DMV against any litigation.
- No state agency subsidies allowed to reach the application threshold.
- Personalized configurations undergo extra DMV review for compliance.
Download the Official REG 5102 PDF
Direct link to the current form (uploaded April 2025):
Download REG 5102 Form PDF
Always use the official DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) to ensure you have the latest version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can individuals apply for these plates?
A: No. REG 5102 is only for state agencies. Individuals use REG 17 for existing special interest plates.
Q: How long does the entire process take?
A: 12–24 months for application collection + 10–12 months programming + 8–12 weeks manufacturing.
Q: Where do the plate fees go?
A: Per your approved financial plan — typically to support the agency’s official programs.
Q: Is there a newer version of REG 5102?
A: The current form remains REG 5102 (New 11/2014). No revisions have been issued as of 2026.
Final Thoughts
The REG 5102 Form gives California state agencies a powerful way to create official specialized license plates that raise awareness and generate revenue for public programs. By following the DMV’s strict guidelines — especially the 7,500-application minimum and design rules — agencies can successfully launch plates that reflect their mission.
For the most accurate and up-to-date instructions, visit the official California DMV website or contact them directly. Ready to get started? Download the REG 5102 PDF today and begin promoting your agency on the road.
This article is based on the official California DMV REG 5102 form and current vehicle registration procedures.