Idaho gives disabled veterans two related but separate tools: a fee-free Disabled Veteran license plate for those with a 100% VA disability rating, and a standard disability placard or plate for veterans (or anyone) with a qualifying physical impairment, regardless of VA percentage. Knowing which one applies to you determines the paperwork you’ll need and what you’ll pay.
Option 1: The Idaho Disabled Veteran License Plate (100% VA Rating)
This plate is reserved for veterans with a 100% permanent, service-connected disability rating from the VA. It’s issued completely free — no plate fee and no registration fee — and it’s limited to one set of plates per qualifying veteran.
With or Without the Accessibility Symbol: What’s the Difference?
When you apply, you’ll choose between two versions of the same plate: Disabled Veteran Plate with the accessibility symbol (which grants accessible parking privileges) or the plain version without it. Both require the identical 100% VA rating documentation.
How to Apply Using ITD Form 3397 (Step-by-Step)
- Contact the VA Regional Office in Boise at (208) 429-2145 or (800) 827-1000 to obtain a 100% permanent service-connected disability rating letter.
- Complete Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) Form 3397.
- Choose whether you want the accessibility symbol.
- Mail or email the completed form and VA letter to ITD Special Plates, PO Box 7129, Boise, ID 83707-1129, or [email protected].
- Do not send payment. ITD will bill you only if a fee actually applies to your specific situation.
Option 2: General Disability Placard or Plate (Below 100% VA Rating)
If your VA rating is below 100%, you can still apply for accessible parking through Idaho’s standard disability program using ITD Form 3392. This route requires certification from a licensed medical professional confirming a qualifying mobility impairment.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Temporary disability placard (up to 6 months) | Free |
| Permanent disability placard (up to 5 years) | Free |
| Personalized disability license plate | $25 initial fee (+$15/year at renewal) |
Renewing Your Idaho Disabled Veteran Plate Each Year
Idaho vehicle registration renews annually, and your Disabled Veteran plate renews along with it at no charge. Important 2026 Update: As of July 1, 2026, Idaho no longer issues physical registration stickers for license plates. Your registration will simply be updated in the digital system. If your vehicle changes, or if your disability rating is re-evaluated by the VA, contact ITD Special Plates directly to report the change.
Purple Heart Recipients: Choosing Between Two Free Plates
Idaho veterans who received the Purple Heart and also have a qualifying disability can choose between a Purple Heart plate or the Disabled Veteran plate at no charge. Note: You apply for the Service-Connected Disabled Purple Heart plate using the same ITD Form 3397 mentioned above, but you must also include a copy of your DD-214.
Bonus Benefit: Free Idaho Parks Passport for Plate Holders
Idaho Disabled Veteran plate holders are also eligible for the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation’s Disabled Veteran Program. This free lifetime pass covers day-use entry to state parks and one free campsite per overnight stay. This is highly valuable and should be requested once your plate is issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Only the version displaying the accessibility symbol authorizes accessible parking; the plain Disabled Veteran plate does not.
You won’t qualify for the fee-free Disabled Veteran plate (which requires a 100% permanent rating), but you can still apply for a standard disability placard using ITD Form 3392 if you have a qualifying physical impairment certified by a physician.
Contact the VA Regional Office in Boise directly at (208) 429-2145 or (800) 827-1000 to request your benefits summary letter.
Conclusion:
If you’re rated 100% permanently disabled, apply using ITD Form 3397 — it costs nothing either way, so just decide up front whether you need the accessibility symbol. If your rating is lower, take ITD Form 3392 to your physician to get certified for a standard placard or plate.
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