Beginning January 1, 2026, veterans in Oregon will be able to purchase veteran recognition license plates specifically designed for motorcycles and mopeds. This initiative follows the passage of Senate Bill 159.
Veteran recognition plates have been available for passenger vehicles since 2008 through a collaboration between the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. The new plate design for motorcycles and mopeds features an American flag on a white background, a four-letter configuration, and the word “VETERAN” at the bottom center. Each vehicle will receive one plate to be displayed on the back; personal decals are not permitted.
The fee structure includes standard or replacement plate fees for motorcycles or mopeds, plus an additional $2.50 surcharge per plate each year. Net proceeds from this surcharge will benefit the Oregon Veterans’ Homes Trust.
Eligibility is limited to veterans who can provide proof of honorable military service. Historically, applicants needed to present documents such as DD214/215 forms or WD AGO Form 53 as evidence of their veteran status. However, with House Bill 2559 passed in 2025, a Summary of Benefits Letter issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is now also accepted as valid proof.
According to ODOT: “DMV will now accept the summary of benefits letter as stand-alone proof of veteran status to add the veteran designation to a driver’s license, permit or ID card, and for the following plates: service branch, blank, motorcycle/moped and Vietnam Veterans of America. DMV will also accept a DD214/DD215 and WD AGO Form 53.”
More information about these license plates can be found at Oregon DMV license plates.
