DD-214 or proof of service
The most common proof, showing honorable or general discharge. A Certificate of Honorable Discharge or county-issued Veteran ID may also work.
Printable guide
Military & Veterans Services Checklist
Use this before visiting DMVQ for the Armed Forces designation, military plates, or veteran benefits.
independent DMV and BMV information guide Verify requirements with the official DMV or BMV before you visit.
Bring these
Bring your service proof
VA rating or award letter
If claiming a veteran-disability plate or plate-related fee benefit.
Current Ohio license or ID
For adding the Armed Forces designation at renewal or duplicate.
Title or memo title and insurance
For registration work, bring your Ohio title or memorandum title and proof of insurance.
Payment
For any standard credential or registration fee that still applies.
Decision point
Which benefit are you here for?
Armed Forces designation
The emblem itself is free. You pay only the normal issuance, renewal, or duplicate fee. Bring your DD-214.
Military or veteran plates
No additional annual plate fee on most. Eligibility is documentation-based, so order in person and the state mails the plate.
Disability benefits
Veterans with Disabilities and Purple Heart Disability plates may waive registration fees on the qualifying vehicle. Bring your VA documentation.
At the visit
Simple steps
- Gather your DD-214 and any VA rating or award letter.
- Decide on the designation, a plate, or both, and add the designation at a renewal or duplicate so you do not pay twice.
- Have staff verify your documents and place the order.
- Watch the mail for plates, and keep your current plates on until they arrive.
Avoid a return trip
- Do not leave the DD-214 at home, almost every military benefit needs proof of service.
- Do not expect military plates over the counter, the state manufactures and mails them.
- Do not bring title questions here, titles are handled at the County Clerk of Courts.