VTR-119 Form – If you represent a qualifying Texas governmental entity, law enforcement agency, or nonprofit food bank and need standard license plates without paying registration fees, the VTR-119 form is the official TxDMV document you must use. Also known as the Application for General Issue License Plates for Exempt Vehicle(s), this one-page form allows eligible organizations to receive regular “general issue” plates (the same design as standard Texas plates) for vehicles exempt from registration fees under Texas law.
In this comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide, you’ll learn exactly who qualifies, how to fill out the VTR-119 form correctly, what documents you need, where to submit it, and key differences from standard exempt plates. All information is drawn directly from the current official TxDMV sources (Form VTR-119 Rev 08/23 and the October 2025 Motor Vehicle Registration Manual).
What Is the VTR-119 Form?
The VTR-119 is the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) application specifically for general issue license plates on vehicles owned by exempt entities. These plates look like ordinary Texas plates—they do not say “EXEMPT” or carry any governmental markings.
Important distinction:
- Use VTR-119 when you want regular-looking plates (no inscription required under Transportation Code §721.003 or §721.005).
- Use VTR-62-A (Application for Standard Texas Exempt License Plates) if you want plates that actually display the word “EXEMPT.”
Vehicles registered with VTR-119 are fully exempt from registration fees but still require title fees (if titling) and must be titled in the name of the exempt entity.
Who Qualifies for Exempt Vehicle General Issue Plates (VTR-119)?
Only specific entities and vehicle types qualify. The October 2025 TxDMV Registration Manual and the form itself list the following:
State agencies exempt under Transportation Code §721.003 (examples):
- Texas Department of Public Safety
- Texas Department of Criminal Justice
- Parks and Wildlife Department
- Railroad Commission of Texas
- Texas Military Department
- And many others listed in the manual
Local government vehicles (with proper authorization):
- City-owned vehicles (requires city council resolution)
- County-owned vehicles (requires commissioner’s court order)
Law enforcement vehicles:
- City police, county sheriff, constable, criminal district attorney, county fire marshal, medical examiner’s office, juvenile probation department vehicles used for child transport, etc. (must certify dedication to law enforcement activities per Transportation Code §502.451(f)(1)).
Nonprofit food banks:
- Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of at least 25,000 lbs. used exclusively to deliver food (requires certification from both the vehicle owner and a nonprofit officer).
Key requirements for all applicants:
- The vehicle must be titled in the exact name of the exempt entity.
- No identification or inscription of the governmental entity may appear on the vehicle.
- If leased, attach a copy of the lease agreement.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the VTR-119 Form?
The form is simple and only one page. Follow these exact steps (fields are clearly labeled on the PDF):
- Applicant Information
- Name of Entity / Department or Office
- Complete mailing address, email, and phone
- Authorized Agent’s full name (the person signing on behalf of the entity)
- Exempt Vehicle Information (repeat for each vehicle)
- Year, Make, Model, Body Style
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Empty Weight (lbs.)
- Certification Section – Check the box that applies:
- Law enforcement dedication statement
- State agency exemption under §721.003 (including Secretary of State compliance)
- Nonprofit food bank weight/use certification (owner + officer signatures required)
- General Certification
- Sign and date the statement confirming the vehicle(s) meet all exemption rules. Falsifying information is a third-degree felony.
- If titling the vehicle at the same time
- Attach Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title and/or Registration).
- Or attach a copy of the recent title application receipt (VTR-500 RTS).
Pro tip: Print clearly or type. Use the official PDF to avoid errors.
Required Supporting Documents for VTR-119
- Municipality: Original or certified copy of city council resolution (must name the municipality, department, and authorized person).
- County: Original or certified copy of commissioner’s court order (same details).
- Leased vehicles: Copy of the lease agreement.
- Title application: Form 130-U or receipt.
- Nonprofit food banks: Dual certifications on the form itself.
No additional fees for the plates or registration.
Where to Submit the VTR-119 Application?
Submit the completed VTR-119 and all attachments in person or by mail to your local county tax assessor-collector’s office.
- Do not mail directly to TxDMV headquarters.
- The county office will issue the general issue plates immediately upon approval.
- Contact your county tax assessor-collector for any questions or current processing times.
VTR-119 vs. VTR-62-A: Quick Comparison
| Feature | VTR-119 (General Issue) | VTR-62-A (Standard Exempt) |
|---|---|---|
| Plate appearance | Regular Texas plates | Plates with “EXEMPT” legend |
| Inscription required? | No (per §721.003/§721.005) | Yes |
| Registration fee | Exempt | Exempt |
| Best for | Undercover / unmarked law enforcement, certain state agencies | Most government fleets |
| Form to use | VTR-119 | VTR-62-A |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About VTR-119
Can private individuals use the VTR-119 form?
No. Only qualifying governmental entities, authorized law enforcement offices, and qualifying nonprofit food banks.
Is the VTR-119 form still current in 2026?
Yes. The official form is Revision 08/23 and is referenced without changes in the October 2025 Motor Vehicle Registration Manual. No newer revision has been issued.
Do I pay any plate or registration fees?
No registration fees. You may owe a title fee if titling the vehicle.
Can I use this form for dealer or temporary plates?
No. VTR-119 is strictly for exempt entity-owned vehicles receiving permanent general issue plates.
What if my vehicle is leased?
Attach a copy of the lease agreement and ensure the title is in the exempt entity’s name.
Download the Official VTR-119 Form (Free & Current)
Direct PDF download (provided by TxDMV):
https://www.txdmv.gov/sites/default/files/form_files/VTR-119.pdf
Always download from the official TxDMV website to ensure you have the latest version.
Final Tips for a Smooth VTR-119 Application
- Double-check that your resolution or court order names the exact department and authorized agent.
- Keep copies of everything submitted.
- For questions about specific eligibility (especially law enforcement or food bank vehicles), contact your county tax assessor-collector first—they process these daily.
By using the correct form (VTR-119) and following these instructions, qualifying Texas entities can quickly obtain free general issue license plates that meet all legal requirements while maintaining a low-profile appearance when needed.
Need help with another TxDMV form (such as VTR-62-A or Form 130-U)? Visit the official TxDMV Forms page or contact your local county tax office. Safe travels!
Last updated: March 2026 – All information verified against current TxDMV publications.
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