As a disabled veteran in Alabama, you are eligible for special vehicle license plates that recognize your service and provide significant financial benefits. The state offers several types of Disabled Veteran (DV) tags, with benefits often determined by your VA-rated disability percentage.
This guide will explain the different types of DV plates, the eligibility requirements for each, and the step-by-step process to secure the benefits you have earned.
Understanding Alabama’s Disabled Veteran Plate Options
Alabama offers different license plates for disabled veterans, primarily distinguished by the level of fee and tax exemption they provide. It’s important to know which one you qualify for.
- Disabled Veteran (DV) Plate: This is for veterans with a service-connected disability rating as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The specific qualifying percentage can vary, but it often starts at 10% or 25%. This plate typically exempts you from the standard annual registration fee for one vehicle, though a small issuance fee may still apply.
- 100% Disabled Veteran Plate: This plate is for veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating. This plate provides a full exemption from registration fees and ad valorem (property) taxes for one passenger vehicle or motorcycle.
How to Apply for a Disabled Veteran Tag
Follow these steps to ensure your application process is smooth and successful.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility and Gather Your Documents
Before visiting a licensing office, you must have all your paperwork in order. This is the most important step.
You will need:
- Proof of Disability: A letter of disability from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that clearly states your name and your service-connected disability rating percentage.
- Proof of Service: Your DD Form 214 or other official separation documents.
- Vehicle Ownership Documents: The original vehicle title for the car you wish to register.
- Helpful Tip: If your title is lost or missing, you must first secure an Alabama title replacement.
- Required Forms: There is no single statewide “Disabled Veteran Plate Application” form to fill out beforehand. The application is part of the standard vehicle registration paperwork you will complete at the county office. However, if you are also applying for disability parking privileges (the wheelchair symbol), you must also submit a completed Form MVR 32-6-230, Application for Disability Access Parking Privileges, which requires certification from a licensed physician.
For Newly Purchased Vehicles: If you have just bought a car and need to drive it legally while applying for your DV tag, you should first secure an Alabama temp tag.
Step 2: Visit Your County Licensing Office
Applications for Disabled Veteran tags must be processed in person at your local County License Plate Issuing Office.
- To save time and avoid long lines, it is highly recommended that you schedule an Alabama DMV appointment in advance.
- Bring your complete package of documents from Step 1 to the office.
- Submit your application and pay any applicable one-time issuance fees.
Key Benefits of the DV Tag
Financial Exemptions
The primary benefit is financial. Depending on your eligibility, you may be exempt from some or all of the following on one vehicle:
- Annual license plate registration fees.
- Ad valorem (property) taxes.
Disability Parking Privileges
This is a common point of confusion. A standard Disabled Veteran license plate does not automatically grant you access to disability parking spaces.
- To get disability parking privileges, you must specifically request a DV plate that features the International Symbol of Access (the wheelchair symbol).
- Qualifying for this symbol typically requires a separate medical certification from a doctor confirming you meet the state’s criteria for disability parking access.
Renewing Your Disabled Veteran Tag
Even if your annual fee is $0, you must still renew your vehicle’s registration each year. This can typically be done online or by mail. Renewing ensures that your vehicle remains legally registered in the state’s system.
Conclusion
The Alabama Disabled Veteran tag is a token of the state’s gratitude for your service and sacrifice. By gathering the correct documentation from the VA and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully secure the financial benefits and recognition you deserve.
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