If you are a Louisiana veteran with a service-connected disability, the state’s Disabled Veteran license plate program is one of the most generous in the South. Unlike many states that require a 100% disability rating to unlock significant vehicle benefits, Louisiana opens the door at just 50%.
However, understanding exactly which plate you get, what it costs, and how to avoid the state’s notorious public tag agency convenience fees is crucial. Here is exactly how to apply and get the maximum benefits allowed under Louisiana law.
Louisiana’s Two Disabled Veteran Plates
Under Louisiana Revised Statutes (R.S. 47:490.4 and 47:490.31), the state issues two distinct “Military Honor” plates for disabled veterans. Both plates automatically grant disabled parking privileges and are permanent — meaning they are exempt from standard vehicle registration renewals.
| Plate Type | Minimum VA Rating | Plate Design |
|---|---|---|
| “DV” Plate | 50% to 99% Service-Connected | Displays “DV” and the International Symbol of Accessibility (ISA) |
| “100% DAV” Plate | 100% Service-Connected | Displays “100% DAV” and the ISA |
Note: There is no state-issued Disabled Veteran plate for veterans with a rating between 0% and 49%. However, you may still purchase standard military branch specialty plates.
Essential Documents for Your Louisiana OMV Application
Gather these documents before leaving your house. Missing a single item will result in a rejection at the counter.
- Form DPSMV 1799 (Vehicle Application): The standard OMV application form.
- VA Summary of Benefits Letter: Must clearly show your service-connected rating percentage. You can download a fresh copy instantly from your VA eBenefits portal. Do not bring raw medical records.
- DD-214: Showing an honorable discharge.
- Photo ID: Your Louisiana driver’s license or state ID.
- Proof of Auto Insurance: Louisiana requires minimum liability coverage ($15k/$30k/$25k).
- Current Vehicle Registration.
How to Apply for Your Louisiana Disabled Veteran Plate
- Download your VA letter and complete Form DPSMV 1799
- Get your updated Summary of Benefits letter from VA.gov and fill out the DPSMV 1799 application before you leave home.
- Choose your location: OMV vs. Public Tag Agency (PTA) (This impacts your final cost)
- You can process this at a state-run Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) or a private Public Tag Agency (like ABC Title). State OMV offices generally require appointments.
- Submit documents and pay handling fees
- While the plate and registration renewals are free under state law, you will still pay administrative fees. The state OMV charges a standard $8 handling fee. If you use a Public Tag Agency to skip the line, they will legally charge an additional “convenience fee” on top of the state fee, which varies by business (often $18–$25+).
Louisiana DV Parking Rules: Do You Still Need a Companion Hang Tag?
Because your new Louisiana DV or DAV plate automatically includes the wheelchair symbol (ISA), you do not need a placard to park in handicapped spaces while driving that specific vehicle.
However, you should still ask the OMV clerk for your free permanent disabled parking hang tag. Under R.S. 47:490.4(E), you are entitled to this tag at no cost. You want this hang tag so you can legally access disabled parking when riding in your spouse’s car, a friend’s vehicle, or a rental car. Like the plate, this specific veteran hang tag is permanent and does not require periodic doctor recertification.
Full Benefits of the Louisiana DV Plate
Getting this plate unlocks daily, highly valuable benefits across the state:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Permanent Registration | No more renewal stickers. Under state law, these plates are completely exempt from standard 2-year vehicle registration renewals. |
| Disabled Parking Access | Immediate access to accessible parking spaces statewide. |
| Free Airport Parking | Under R.S. 29:27.1, all air carrier airports in Louisiana must provide free parking to vehicles displaying the DV or DAV plate (you must present an airline ticket showing your departure and return dates to the parking attendant). |
| Free Driver’s License | Honorably discharged veterans with a 50%+ SC rating are exempt from driver’s license and CDL fees. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Louisiana allows the Secretary to issue a military honor license plate for each vehicle registered in the qualifying veteran’s name.
No. For the 50% DV and 100% DAV plates, your official VA Summary of Benefits letter serves as the medical proof required to grant the plate and its built-in parking privileges.
Yes, but the tax break is tiered. Separate from the license plate, Louisiana offers property tax exemptions for veterans. A 50%–69% rating exempts $2,500 of the assessed home value. A 70%–99% rating exempts $4,500. A 100% rating fully exempts the entire assessed value of the homestead from parish property taxes.
Conclusion:
Louisiana’s disabled veteran license plate program provides meaningful daily benefits — from parking access to financial exemptions — that make the application well worth your time. Start by confirming your disability rating with the VA, gather your documents, and visit your nearest participating OMV office.
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