Oregon’s Disabled Veteran (DV) plate is unique in two major ways: it has no minimum disability percentage requirement, and the plate itself does not grant handicapped parking privileges. Understanding these distinctions—and knowing how to navigate the separate programs for parking and state park access—will ensure you get the most out of your benefits.
Who Qualifies for Oregon’s Disabled Veteran Plate
Under ORS 805.100, you qualify as a disabled veteran for plate purposes if your disability results from service-connected causes in the U.S. Armed Forces.
- No Minimum Rating: Unlike many states, Oregon does not require a 50% or 100% threshold. Any service-connected disability rating (even 0%) qualifies you.
- Proof Required: You must provide a letter from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (or your branch of service) certifying your service-connected disability. A DD-214 (or DD-215) that explicitly documents the disability also satisfies this requirement.
Important Warning: Oregon DV Plates Don’t Grant Handicap Parking
It is a common point of confusion: The Disabled Veteran plate is for vehicle registration, not for parking. If you park in a marked disabled space using only the DV plate, you may be ticketed. If you require handicapped parking access, you must apply for a separate permit (see below).
How to Apply for an Oregon Disabled Veteran License Plate
- Gather Your Documentation: Have your VA disability certification letter or a qualifying DD-214/DD-215 ready.
- Complete Form 6736: Fill out the Application for Disabled Veteran Plates (Form 6736). By signing, you certify that you are a registered owner/lessee of the vehicle and that you will only hold one set of DV plates at a time.
- Submit with Registration: Submit the form along with your Application for Title and Registration (Form 735-226) or Application for Registration (Form 735-268).
- Note: If you reside in the Portland Metro or Medford areas, your vehicle may be subject to DEQ emissions testing unless it qualifies for a specific exemption.
- Pay the Fees: The registration is permanent. You will pay a $15 one-time registration fee plus the standard $26 plate manufacturing fee (Total: $41). You will never pay a renewal fee for this registration again.
Handicapped Parking Access: The Wounded Warrior Placard
If you need parking privileges, you must apply for a Disabled Person Parking Permit. There are two distinct options:
- Standard Disabled Parking Permit: Requires medical certification of a qualifying disability that limits mobility or vision (Form 735-265).
- Oregon Wounded Warrior Placard: If you have a 50% or greater service-connected disability rating from the VA, you can apply for the Wounded Warrior designation on your parking permit. This provides standard handicapped parking access plus exemptions from fees at public metered parking and allows for longer stays in time-limited zones.
Action Item: Download and complete Form 735-265 (Disabled Person Parking Permit Application). If you meet the 50% threshold, ensure you attach your VA disability rating letter to qualify for the Wounded Warrior benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
None. Any service-connected disability (including 0%) qualifies you.
No. The plate is for identification only. You must obtain a separate parking placard or permit to use those spaces.
No. Oregon charges a one-time $41 fee ($15 registration + $26 plate fee), and the registration is permanent for as long as you own the vehicle.
No. The state limits you to one set per qualifying veteran.
Conclusion
As a veteran with a service-connected disability, you are also eligible for an Oregon State Parks Special Access Pass. This pass provides free parking at day-use fee parks and free camping (up to 10 nights per 30-day period) in Oregon State Parks. You can apply for this benefit separately through the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department website.
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