VTR-62-A Form – If your governmental agency, school district, or qualifying organization operates vehicles in Texas, you likely need the VTR-62-A form to apply for standard exempt license plates. These plates provide full exemption from vehicle registration fees while ensuring compliance with state law.
This official Application for Standard Texas Exempt License Plates (Form VTR-62-A) is the primary document used by cities, counties, state agencies, public schools, and certain other entities. The form remains current (last revised January 2020) and is actively referenced in the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Motor Vehicle Registration Manual (October 2025 edition).
In this complete guide, you’ll learn exactly who qualifies, how to complete the VTR-62-A form step by step, what documents to attach, where to submit it, and key legal requirements like vehicle inscription. Download the latest PDF directly from the official source at the end.
What Are Standard Exempt License Plates in Texas?
Standard exempt license plates are specially marked plates issued to vehicles owned or leased by qualifying governmental entities. The plates display the word “EXEMPT” and exempt the vehicle from paying annual registration fees under Texas Transportation Code §502.453.
These plates differ from:
- Specialty or personalized plates
- General-issue plates for unmarked exempt vehicles (use Form VTR-119 instead)
- EMS or volunteer fire department plates (use VTR-62-EMS or VTR-62-F)
The plates remain valid until the vehicle is sold, the registration is revoked, or the plates are lost/stolen.
Who Qualifies for the VTR-62-A Standard Exempt Plate Application?
Only vehicles owned and used exclusively in the service of specific entities qualify. According to Texas law and the TxDMV Registration Manual, qualifying entities include:
- United States government (federal agencies)
- State of Texas agencies
- Counties and municipalities
- Public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools
- Commercial transportation companies providing exclusive public school transportation services (requires additional Form VTR-62-BUS)
- Certain other vehicles listed in Transportation Code §502.453 (e.g., specific law enforcement, Coast Guard Auxiliary, or seized vehicles used for official purposes)
Important exclusions:
- A federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or Comptroller ID number does NOT qualify a vehicle.
- Volunteer fire departments and emergency ambulance services must use separate forms (VTR-62-F or VTR-62-EMS).
The vehicle must be titled in the name of the qualifying entity (or properly leased).
Step-by-Step: How to Complete the VTR-62-A Form?
The one-page form is simple and can cover up to six vehicles. Follow these steps:
- Download the official form (link below).
- Enter entity information:
- Name of Governmental Entity
- Department/Office
- Full address, email, and phone number
- Provide authorized agent details (must be an official with signing authority):
- First, middle, last name, and suffix
- List vehicle details (one row per vehicle):
- Year, Make, Model
- Body style
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Empty weight (required for trailers/semitrailers)
- Indicate application type (new plates, replacement, or change from regular plates).
- Sign and certify:
- The authorized agent must sign, certifying that (a) the vehicle is used exclusively by the qualifying entity and (b) the vehicle displays the required inscription (see below).
- Attach supporting documents (see next section).
Pro tip: Type or print clearly. Falsifying information is a third-degree felony under Texas law.
Required Documents and Attachments for VTR-62-A
- Completed VTR-62-A
- Texas title in the entity’s name (or Form 130-U if titling at the same time)
- Lease agreement (if the vehicle is leased)
- VTR-62-BUS (if applying for commercial school buses)
- Proof of any inscription exemption (for certain law enforcement vehicles under Transportation Code §721.003 or §721.005)
No registration fee is charged for exempt plates.
How to Submit the VTR-62-A Form?
Submit the completed application in person or by mail to your local county tax assessor-collector’s office. The county will process it and forward to TxDMV for plate production.
- Plates are mailed to the county for pickup.
- Replacement plates (lost/stolen) have no fee but require surrendering old plates if recovered.
- For large fleets or special circumstances, contact your county office first.
Vehicle Inscription Requirements (Transportation Code Chapter 721)
Exempt vehicles must display the governmental entity’s name on both sides in letters at least 2 inches high (or an emblem at least 100 square inches) in a contrasting color, legible from 100 feet.
Exceptions:
- United States government-owned vehicles
- Certain state agencies or law enforcement vehicles with approved exemption orders
Failure to meet inscription rules can result in denial of the application or revocation of exempt status.
Benefits of Using the VTR-62-A Form
- Zero registration fees
- Official “EXEMPT” plates for clear identification
- Streamlined process for government fleets
- Compliance with all state transportation laws
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About VTR-62-A
Can nonprofits use this form?
Only if specifically listed in statute (e.g., certain religious organizations for trailers). Most 501(c)(3) organizations do not qualify.
How long are the plates valid?
Indefinitely, until the vehicle is sold or registration is revoked.
Do I need a new VTR-62-A every year?
No — only when adding vehicles, replacing plates, or changing ownership.
Where do I find my county tax assessor-collector office?
Visit txdmv.gov and search by county.
Download the Official VTR-62-A Form (Free PDF)
Direct download: Application for Standard Texas Exempt License Plates (VTR-62-A)
Source: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (official and most current version).
For the full Motor Vehicle Registration Manual or additional guidance, visit the TxDMV website.
Final Tips for a Smooth Application
Always verify eligibility and current procedures with your local county tax assessor-collector’s office before submitting. Requirements can involve paired title applications (Form 130-U), so plan ahead when purchasing or titling new vehicles.
Need help? Contact your county office or the TxDMV Special Plates Unit. Proper use of the VTR-62-A form ensures your governmental vehicles stay legal, fee-exempt, and clearly identified on Texas roads.
Ready to apply? Download the VTR-62-A PDF today and contact your county tax assessor-collector to get started. Safe travels!
This guide is based exclusively on current official TxDMV sources and Texas statutes as of 2026. Always confirm with your local county office for any case-specific details.
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