BEDFORD—During the commissioners’ meeting on Tuesday morning, Veterans Affairs Officer Brad Bough shared important information regarding the range of distinctive military license plates available to Indiana residents. These plates allow military personnel, Hoosier veterans, and civilians to show their support for the armed forces and benefit veterans and their families.
“100 percent of the sales generated go directly into the Military Family Relief Fund, which helps veterans and their families with food, housing, medical expenses, and other resources,” Bough explained. “Our office is ready to assist anyone who wishes to obtain one of these plates.”
The Hoosier Veteran license plates can be purchased at any Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch. To qualify for the plate, individuals must provide one of the following forms of documentation:
- U.S. Uniformed Services Retiree Identification Card
- DD214 or DD215 (military discharge papers)
- A current Armed Forces ID
- An Indiana credential, such as a driver’s license with a veteran indicator (located in the upper right corner on the back of the credential)
Additional paperwork, including the Certificate of Eligibility for Veteran License Plate—State Form 32584, is required for those looking to acquire a Disabled Hoosier Veteran license plate.
Several other specialized military plates are available, including:
- National Guard License Plate: Active members must provide a current U.S. Armed Forces ID and a letter from their commanding officer, while former members must provide discharge or retirement paperwork.
- Purple Heart License Plate: Available to those who have received the Purple Heart or to surviving spouses as of July 1, 2021.
- Ex-Prisoner of War (POW) License Plate: Available to ex-POWs with the necessary certification.
- Pearl Harbor License Plate: For Pearl Harbor survivors and surviving spouses upon the service member’s death.
- Gold Star Family License Plate: For families of those who died in military service, including spouses, parents, and siblings.
- Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Plate: For individuals awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
A Support Our Troops License Plate is also available for civilian motorists wishing to show their support. There are no documentation requirements for purchasing this plate.
Fees for military plates vary. The sponsoring organization sets group fees and a $15 administrative fee (with some exceptions). Excise taxes are based on the vehicle’s year, make, and county and municipality of residence.
All of Indiana’s military-related license plates are also available as motorcycle plates.
Veterans and civilians are encouraged to visit their local BMV branch or contact the Veterans Affairs Office for more information or assistance obtaining a license plate.
