Veteran ID Cards and Veteran Designation

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If you're a veteran in Washington State, adding a Veteran Designation to your driver's license is a simple way to easily access discounts and other benefits. This designation is a convenient way to identify yourself as a veteran and can help you take advantage of various services available to you. Whether you're looking to apply for a digital Veteran ID card, the Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC), or simply want to add the designation to your license, the process is straightforward. Here's everything you need to know about eligibility, how to apply, and what documents you'll need to get started.

Veteran Designation on Your Washington State Driver’s License

If you’re a veteran and want to add a Veteran Designation to your driver’s license, the process is simple. With this designation, you can easily identify yourself as a veteran for discounts and other benefits. Here’s how to apply:

Eligibility Requirements

To get a veteran designation on your driver’s license, you must meet one of the following criteria:

  • DD Form 214 or a separation document equivalent to DD Form 214 that shows "honorable" or "general under honorable conditions" status.
  • A U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) identification card.
  • Next Generation Uniformed Services ID – Retired or a letter from the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA).

If you don’t have any of the required documents, you can request your military service records online via the National Archives website.

How to Apply

Additional Fees

  • Veteran designation is free.
  • If you're adding other endorsements (such as a motorcycle endorsement) or updating information like your name or address, an additional fee may apply.
  • Renewing your license or getting a new card also incurs additional fees. Learn more about the driver licensing fees.

Federal VA Digital Veteran ID Card

As of September 2022, Veteran ID Cards are digital, allowing you to access benefits and discounts without the need for a physical card. If you still have a physical card, you can continue using it.

Am I eligible for a Veteran ID Card?

You may be eligible if you meet both of these requirements.

  • You served on active duty, in the Reserves, or in the National Guard (including the Coast Guard), and
  • You received an honorable or general discharge (under honorable conditions)

You’ll need to provide a copy of your discharge papers when you apply for a VIC to prove your character of discharge.

How to Apply for a Digital Veteran ID Card

  1. Sign in to your account via a verified identity provider, such as Login.gov or ID.me. If you don’t have an account, you can create one and verify your identity.
  2. Once your identity is verified, you’ll be able to apply for your Veteran ID Card online.

You’ll Need the Following Information:

  • Your Social Security number.
  • A digital copy of your military discharge paperwork (DD214, DD256, DD257, PHS1867, or NGB22). Acceptable file formats: .pdf, .jpeg, .png.
  • A government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID).
  • A digital photo of yourself from the shoulders up, following the specifications:
    • Full front view of your face and neck, with no hats or head coverings.
    • Neutral expression with eyes open.
    • A square image with a plain or white background.
    • Recent (within the last 10 years) and in the format .jpeg, .png, .bmp, or .tiff.

Federal VA Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

The Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) is a photo ID card issued by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It's used by eligible veterans to check in for VA medical appointments and to access VA health records. 

How to get a VHIC 

  1. Enroll in VA health care
  2. Contact an enrollment coordinator at your local VA medical center
  3. Request your VHIC online or in person at a VA medical center

What can I use a VHIC for? 

  • Check in for VA medical appointments
  • Access VA health records
  • Get Veteran discounts at many stores, businesses, and restaurants
  • Use for base access and to use privileges at military installations

You can apply for VA health care by: