Vet's Corner: State allows special driver's licenses for California many veterans

Thursday, October 29, 2015 - 10:44am

Governor Brown has signed legislation that will require the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to offer special driver’s licenses to veterans. The license will have a “Veteran” marking indicating service in the United States Armed Forces. This new program is set to go into effect on Veterans Day, 11 November 2015.

In order to receive your veteran driver’s license, you’ll need to visit your local County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) and complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form. You’ll need a certified copy of your discharge papers (DD-214) showing you received an other than dishonorable discharge, or that you served in a Guard or Reserve component and were mobilized for federal active duty. The CSVO will verify the documents presented and approve/stamp the application. You can then take it to the DMV beginning 12 November.

If you don’t have a copy of your discharge papers, the CVSO can order a copy. You’ll also have an opportunity to discuss the many federal, state, and local benefits you may be eligible for. The CVSO can also file an application for any benefits you or your family are eligible for.

The Veteran Status Verification Form for the new veteran driver’s license will be available in the CVSO office beginning 2 November. Our office will begin completing forms on that date, but Veterans are reminded that they can’t take the form to the DMV until 12 November at the earliest. DMV recommends that you make an appointment for this purpose. There is also a $5.00 fee for the Veteran designation, along with the normal fee for your driver’s license. This new driver’s license will mean that veterans will no longer need to carry their discharge papers to show proof of military service.

The Kings County Veterans Service Office issues Veteran I.D. cards to honorably discharged veterans. Contact Joe Wright if you would like to receive periodic veteran’s information by email. There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents. To find out if you are eligible for any of these benefits, visit or call our office. We can and will assist you in completing all required application forms. You can get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office webpage at www.countyofkings.com/vets.

Joe Wright, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call (559)852- 2669; or e-mail joe.wright@co.kings.ca.us.