VTR-102 Form: Antarctica Medal Plate Application

VTR-102 Form – If you’re a proud recipient of the Antarctica Service Medal and a Texas resident, you can showcase your service with a specialty license plate designed specifically for honorees like you. The Antarctica Service Medal License Plate, available through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV), allows veterans and eligible civilians to personalize their vehicles while commemorating their contributions to U.S. operations in one of the world’s most challenging environments. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Form VTR-102, including eligibility, the application process, fees, and more. Whether you’re searching for “Antarctica Medal Plate Application Texas” or “VTR-102 Form instructions,” this article has you covered.

What Is the Antarctica Service Medal?

The Antarctica Service Medal is a prestigious award issued by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to military personnel who have served in Antarctica for a specified period. It recognizes service in support of scientific research, exploration, or military operations south of 60 degrees South latitude. For military members, eligibility typically requires at least 10 days of service on the Antarctic continent or aboard vessels in Antarctic waters, though requirements have evolved over time. Civilians participating in the U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP) under the National Science Foundation (NSF) may also qualify, with cumulative service thresholds of 30 days before September 30, 2008, or 10 days after October 1, 2008.

This medal honors the dedication and hardships faced by those in extreme cold, isolation, and logistical challenges. Recipients include both active-duty service members and civilians involved in research stations or vessels.

Eligibility for the Antarctica Service Medal License Plate in Texas

To qualify for the Antarctica Service Medal specialty license plate in Texas, you must be a recipient of the medal itself. According to Texas Transportation Code Section 504.417, the TxDMV issues these plates exclusively to verified recipients. This includes:

• Military personnel awarded the medal by the DoD for 60 or more consecutive days of service in Antarctica (as noted in some official forms, though federal criteria may vary).
• Eligible civilians who have deployed via the USAP and met the latitude and duration requirements.

There’s no additional service branch restriction—the plate is open to all qualified recipients. Note that falsifying eligibility information is a third-degree felony under Texas law. If you’re unsure about your medal status, contact your military branch or the NSF for verification.

The plate features the Antarctica Service Medal emblem and the words “Antarctica Service Medal” at the bottom, making it a distinctive tribute to your achievement. It’s available for passenger cars, trucks (up to 18,000 lbs.), motorcycles/mopeds, and trailers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Form VTR-102

Form VTR-102 is the official Application for the Antarctica Service Medal License Plate. Here’s how to apply:

1. Download the Form: Get the latest version from the TxDMV website at https://www.txdmv.gov/sites/default/files/form_files/VTR-102.pdf.
2. Fill Out Applicant Information: Provide your full name, address, county, phone number, and email.
3. Enter Vehicle Details: Include the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), current Texas plate number, year, make, body style, empty weight, and vehicle type (e.g., passenger car, truck).
4. Select Personalization (Optional): Choose up to three personalization options with letters, numbers, and symbols (e.g., period, dash, space, Texas silhouette). Passenger plates allow up to 6 characters; motorcycles up to 4. The International Symbol of Access (for disabilities) counts as 2 characters and requires Form VTR-214.
5. Certify Eligibility: Sign to confirm you’re a medal recipient and that all information is accurate.
6. Gather Required Documents: Attach a copy of your Antarctica Service Medal certificate as proof. If requesting the International Symbol of Access, include a completed Form VTR-214.
7. Prepare Payment: Use a personal check, money order, or cashier’s check— no cash by mail.

Fees and Costs for the Antarctica Medal Plate

One of the perks of this specialty plate is affordability:

• Specialty Plate Fee: $0 (no charge for the plate itself).
• Annual Registration: Standard vehicle registration fees apply.
• Personalization Fee: $40 per year (non-refundable once submitted).
• Additional Fees: May include costs to align your plate issuance with your vehicle registration expiration date.

You’re limited to three sets of plates per applicant.

Where and How to Submit Your VTR-102 Application?

Submit your completed Form VTR-102, proof of eligibility, and payment directly to your local county tax assessor-collector’s office. Find your nearest office via the TxDMV website. If applying by mail or online (where available), check with your county office after three weeks to confirm your plate is ready.

For questions, contact your local tax assessor-collector or visit the TxDMV’s military and veteran license plates page for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About the VTR-102 Form and Antarctica Medal Plate

How long does it take to receive the plate?

Processing typically takes a few weeks. Contact your county office if ordering by mail.

Can I transfer the plate to another vehicle?

Yes, but you must update your registration accordingly through TxDMV.

Is this plate available for disabled veterans?

Yes, and you can add the International Symbol of Access if eligible via Form VTR-214.

What if my personalization request is denied?

Selections deemed offensive, already issued, or conflicting with TxDMV systems won’t be approved.

When was this plate introduced?

It was authorized by House Bill 2921 in the 88th Texas Legislative Session (2023).

Why Get the Antarctica Service Medal License Plate?

Displaying this plate is more than just a vehicle accessory—it’s a way to honor your unique service and spark conversations about Antarctic exploration and research. As part of Texas’s broad range of military and veteran specialty plates (over 119 options), it supports pride in service without extra costs for the base plate.

Ready to apply? Download Form VTR-102 today and head to your local office. For the most current information as of March 2026, always check the TxDMV website. If you have additional questions, reach out to TxDMV directly.