Obtaining a veteran designation on license or veterans ID card in Virginia is not required, though it is often requested. A DMV veterans designation is only available to active and retired military personnel, and can provide a variety of benefits. Additionally, if you meet requirements for veterans license plates, you will be able to display your services with a personalized license plate, available for many different branches of the military and military awards. For more information on veterans designation on license or identification cards, review the sections that have been provided below.
What is a veteran designation on a driver's license or an ID card in Virginia?
Be a resident of the state of Virginia.
Hold an unexpired Virginia CDL, drivers license, learners permit or a Virginia identification card.
Have served either in the active United States Armed Forces or you have accumulated more than 180 days in the Virginia National Guard or United States Reserves.
Have received an honorable discharge.
Present proof of your service, such as documents that were provided by a branch of service and include discharge date or discharge status.
If you meet veteran designation on license and ID requirements in Virginia, you may be wondering how to get a veterans ID card or drivers license, which is a very valid question. Once you have met the requirements for a veterans identification card or license, you may apply online, by mail, via fax or in person at any Virginia DMV Customer Service Center.
If you choose to request a veterans designation on license or identification card online, you will need to submit a copy of your online receipt and proof of your veteran status to the Virginia DMV within 15 days of your application, which can be done in person or by fax.
A Veterans ID card or license can also be requested by mail with the completion of the Virginia Veterans Identification Card Application, or form DL-11, along with a copy of your veteran status and your payment. Alternatively, you can fax the application and required documentation to the Virginia DMV.
Lastly, you have the option of requesting a veteran designation on license or ID by visiting your local Virginia DMV Customer Service Center with the required documentation and payment. Learn more about obtaining veteran designation at the DMV by downloading our free guide.
After applying for a veteran designation on license or ID in Virginia, you may use your receipt to show proof of your veteran status while you are awaiting your official card. You should receive your official veterans identification card by mail within seven to 10 days after your application has been processed. Unlike a state identification card or drivers license, your veterans ID card will not expire, and should you ever need a new one, it can be easily replaced for an additional fee. Download our comprehensive guide to read more about the veteran designation application process.
That you are a resident within the state of Virginia.
That you received an honorable military discharge.
That you were of active duty for at least 180 days.
Additionally, you must be able to provide a copy of your active duty, retired ID card or a DD214 document that provides the dates of your service. Virginia license plates for veterans include a set amount of character combinations and display an icon that is associated with that branch or award; different types cost the same amount.
If you meet the requirements for veterans license plates in Virginia, you are likely wondering how to get a veteran license plate, and that is a valid question. The most convenient way to purchase a veteran license plate is by utilizing the Virginia DMV online services. If you would prefer not to place your request online, you also have the option of completing a License Plate Application, or form VSA 10, and mailing that to the Virginia DMV. The last option available to you is to visit a Virginia DMV Customer Service Center to complete your request.
It is important to note that while the base disabled veterans special plates will then be free, you will still need to pay for any personalization fees and emissions fees, when applicable. Additionally, any surviving spouses of a veteran that meets the above requirements may also receive one free set of disabled veteran special plates. Download our complimentary guide to read more about veteran license plates in VA.