New Delaware license plate for disabled veterans

Disabled veterans in Delaware can now qualify for a special license plate that demonstrates their status. 

Previously, veterans with disabilities were required to go through a separate process to obtain two separate identifications from the Division of Motor Vehicles.  Governor Jack Markell signed a bill into law recently that establishes the new plate, which will include the disability designation and the letters “DAV.”

“By signing this bill, we streamline two DMV processes into one, saving state resources and saving veterans with disabilities from unnecessary inconveniences,” Governor Markell said.

The idea came from Charter School of Wilmington student Ellie Wallace, whose grandfather relocated to Delaware from Pennsylvania and experienced challenges in obtaining special handicapped parking accommodations.  She lobbied for Delaware to join more than 30 other states that had combined DAV and handicapped license plates.

Legislation was drafted and passed in the Delaware General Assembly. 

“I hope this new law means as much to disabled American veterans in Delaware as it does to my grandfather and me,” Ellie Wallace said.

The DMV expects the plates to be available in September, if not sooner.