What black license plates are and who can get them

Black license plates in California are not a single program — they are several different plates, each issued for a specific reason. Some are for vehicles that run on alternative fuel, some are for vehicles owned by disabled people, and some are for classic cars. The state does not issue black plates just because you want them. You get a black plate only if your vehicle or situation matches one of California's defined categories.

The most common black plates are the Legacy License Plate (also called the black plate), which is the original California design from before 1969. You can request one if you own a vehicle registered in California, but there is a waiting list and an additional fee. Other black plates include the Disabled Person License Plate (for people with mobility disabilities), the Disabled Veteran License Plate, and plates for alternative-fuel vehicles like electric cars or hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles.

Key Takeaways

  • Black plates in California fall into separate categories: Legacy plates (the original design), disabled person plates, disabled veteran plates, and alternative-fuel vehicle plates.
  • The Legacy plate requires vehicle registration in California, a waiting list enrollment, and an additional fee beyond your normal registration cost.
  • Disabled person and disabled veteran plates require a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) process plus medical documentation or military discharge papers.
  • Alternative-fuel vehicle plates are issued automatically when you register a may have access to vehicle, with no separate request needed.
  • You request most black plates through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.

Legacy plates: the original California black design

The Legacy plate is the black plate most people mean when they ask about black license plates in California. It reproduces the design California used from 1963 to 1969 — white lettering on a black background with the state name and bear at the top. The plate is purely decorative; it does not change your registration status or give you any special rights on the road.

To request a Legacy plate, your vehicle must be registered in California. You enroll in a waiting list through the DMV. The wait time varies — it can be several months to over a year depending on how many people are ahead of you. Once your turn comes, you pay an additional fee (the amount changes yearly, so check the DMV website for the current cost) and the plate is mailed to you. You then install it on your vehicle the same way you would any other plate.

You can request a Legacy plate through the DMV website at dmv.ca.gov, by mail using the DMV form, or in person at a DMV office. If you go in person, bring your vehicle registration and a valid ID. The DMV will add you to the waiting list on the spot.

Disabled person and disabled veteran black plates

California issues black plates specifically for people with disabilities that affect mobility. These plates come with parking privileges — you can park in designated accessible spaces and use the carpool lane on some highways, even if you are driving alone. The plate itself is black with white lettering, similar to the Legacy plate but with a wheelchair symbol.

To request a disabled person plate, you need a form signed by a licensed physician stating that you have a permanent or temporary mobility disability. The DMV form is called the process for Disabled Person Placard or License Plate (form DL 674). You submit the form along with your vehicle registration and a valid ID. The DMV reviews the medical documentation and either approves or denies your request. If approved, the plate is mailed to you.

Disabled veterans can request a different black plate that shows military service. You will need your military discharge papers (DD Form 214) and the DMV process form. The process is the same: submit the form with your documentation, and the DMV mails the plate if you are approved.

Alternative-fuel vehicle plates

If you own an electric vehicle, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle, or plug-in hybrid, California may issue you a black plate automatically when you register the vehicle. These plates have a white background with black lettering and a distinctive design that identifies the vehicle type. Some electric vehicles, like certain Tesla models, come with these plates as standard.

You do not need to request an alternative-fuel plate separately. When you register your vehicle at the DMV, the staff will see that it qualifies and issue the appropriate plate. If you are unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, check the DMV website or ask at the DMV office when you register.

How to request a black plate through the DMV

The process depends on which type of black plate you want. For a Legacy plate, visit dmv.ca.gov and look for the Legacy Plate section, or call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133. You can also mail in a request or visit a DMV office in person. Bring your vehicle registration and a valid ID.

For a disabled person or disabled veteran plate, read the process form from dmv.ca.gov (form DL 674 for disabled persons, or ask the DMV which form applies to disabled veterans). Fill out the form, have it signed by your physician or gather your military discharge papers, and submit it by mail or in person at a DMV office. Processing usually takes two to four weeks.

You can also request plates online through your DMV account if you have one set up. Log in at dmv.ca.gov, go to your vehicle registration, and look for the option to request a different plate design. Not all plate types are available online, so check what your situation allows.

Fees and what happens after approval

Legacy plates cost an additional fee beyond your regular vehicle registration renewal. The fee varies by year — check the DMV website for the current amount. Once you pay and are approved, the plate is mailed to your address on file, usually within two to four weeks.

Disabled person and disabled veteran plates do not cost extra. Once the DMV approves your request, the plate is mailed at no additional charge. If you also want a placard (a hanging permit for your rearview mirror) instead of or in addition to the plate, that is also free.

When your plate arrives, remove your old plate and install the new one using the same bolts or fasteners. Keep your old plate — you do not need to return it to the DMV. If your plate is damaged or lost, contact the DMV to request a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Legacy plate if my vehicle is not registered in California?

No. Your vehicle must be registered in California to request a Legacy plate. If you move to California and register your vehicle here, you can then request one.

How long is the waiting list for a Legacy plate?

The wait time varies and changes throughout the year. It can range from several months to over a year. The DMV does not publish exact wait times, but you can call 1-800-777-0133 or check dmv.ca.gov for an estimate when you enroll.

Do black plates give me any special driving privileges?

Legacy plates and alternative-fuel plates do not. Disabled person and disabled veteran plates do — they allow you to park in accessible spaces and, in some cases, use carpool lanes solo. The privileges depend on your specific plate type and situation.

What if my medical condition changes and I no longer need a disabled person plate?

Contact the DMV and request to cancel your plate. You can do this by mail, phone, or in person. Return your plate to the DMV or destroy it — the DMV will give you instructions when you cancel.

Can I transfer a Legacy plate to a different vehicle I own?

Yes. Once you have a Legacy plate, you can transfer it to another vehicle you own by updating your registration with the DMV. The plate stays with you, not with the vehicle.