Waiver for plates for disabled veterans az

Share on LinkedIn

Summary of Arizona Military and Veteran Benefits: Arizona offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including, tax and license fee exceptions, education and tuition assistance, vehicle license plates, state park benefits, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.

Arizona Veterans Benefits Counselors (VBCs): The Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services has a network of trained VBCs who can assist service members, Veterans, retired service members and their families find and apply for military/Veterans’ benefits under federal, state and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge. To request an appointment to speak with a VBC, call 602-535-1215.

Arizona Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility

What are my Arizona Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?

Arizona Income Tax on Military Pay: Arizona does not tax military pay received by service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Arizona Income Tax Exemption for Military Retired Pay: All military retired pay is exempt from Arizona income taxes.

Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. All TSP distributions are subject to state taxes and early distributions may incur higher taxes.

Arizona State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Military Disability Retirement Pay: Military Disability Retirement Pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:

• Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their families
• Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
• Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
• Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program

Arizona State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of military service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.

Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Arizona State Tax Benefits: SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are not subject to Arizona income taxes.

Nonresident Military Spouses do not Pay Arizona Income Tax: Income earned in Arizona by a nonresident spouse of a nonresident active duty service member is not taxed in Arizona if all the following apply:

• Service member is in Arizona in compliance with military orders
• Spouse is in Arizona only to be with the active duty service member
• Spouse has the same state of residence as the service member

The military spouse’s income is subject to state income tax in their state of residence.

Arizona Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses: The property of a resident disabled Veteran, or their surviving spouse may be exempt from taxation up to $4,476 of the assessed value. The amount of the exemption is equal to $4,476 multiplied by their VA disability percentage. Total assessed value of property in Arizona must not exceed $30,099.

Income from all sources cannot exceed:

• $37,297 per household with no children under age 18
• $44,745 per household with children under age 18 residing with applicant

The exemption is applied to the real estate first, then to a mobile home or an automobile.
Who is eligible for Arizona Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses? All applicants must be Arizona residents, Veterans must have received an honorable discharge from service in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces and received a disability rating from the VA (may be service-connected or non-service-connected).

Applicants must provide the following documentation when they apply:

• Veterans – DD214, proof of residency, VA Benefit Summary Letter, and proof of meeting income limitations
• Surviving Spouse –Death certificate, proof of residency, and proof of meeting income limitations

Property tax is administered by county assessors. Valuations and income limits for the current tax year are available after January 1st of each year from the county assessor. Applicants should contact their local county assessors for more information and to apply.
Arizona Affidavit of Individual Tax Exemption
Arizona Department of Revenue, Property Tax Frequently Asked Questions
Arizona County Government Directory

What are my Arizona Military and Veterans Education Benefits?

Arizona In-State Tuition Status for Veterans and their Dependents: Eligible Veterans and their dependents can be granted immediate residency, making them eligible for in-state tuition rates when using VA educational benefits.
Who is eligible for Arizona In-State Tuition Status for Veterans and their Dependents? To be eligible the student must be a Veteran, the spouse or dependent of a Veteran, who has been discharged within the last 36 months from a period of active duty 90 days or longer and is using either VA Chapter 30 or Chapter 33 benefits.

Students must also comply with the following requirements:

• Live in Arizona
• Complete one of the following:
  • Register to vote in Arizona
  • Get an Arizona driver license
  • Register a motor vehicle in Arizona
  • Work in Arizona
  • Transfer of major banking services to Arizona
  • Change of permanent address on all pertinent records
  • Other materials that prove domicile or residency status

  Veterans and their Dependents Tuition and Fees Deferred at Arizona State Supported Schools: Any student who is using VA educational benefits at an Arizona community college, college or university is eligible for a deferment of payment of tuition, fees, required books and materials for up to 120 days, with no interest.
  Who is eligible for Veterans and their Dependents Tuition and Fees Deferred at Arizona State Supported Schools? An Arizona Veteran or their dependent is eligible for the deferment while awaiting VA education benefits.

  Tuition Waivers at Arizona Public Educational Institutions for Service Members, Veterans and Dependents: Arizona offers tuition waivers at public educational institutions for eligible Veterans, service members and their family members.

  The waiver covers the required number of credits for a bachelor’s degree and may be used at Arizona community colleges and public universities.
  Who are eligible Tuition Waivers at Arizona Public Educational Institutions for Service Members, Veterans and Dependents? Students must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible for a tuition waiver:

  • Unremarried surviving spouse and/or children (under 30 years of age) of a service member who was an Arizona resident or was stationed in Arizona and was killed in the line of duty or died from injuries suffered in the line of duty
  • Arizona National Guard service member who received the Purple Heart after September 11, 2001
  • U.S. Armed Forces service member, who is an Arizona resident, or was stationed in Arizona when they received a Purple Heart and has a disability rating of 50% or more from the VA
  • Arizona National Guard service member who was medically discharged from the Arizona National Guard due to a service-connected injury or disability

  To apply for a tuition waiver applicants must submit a completed Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, Tuition Waiver and Verification Form by mail or email to:

  Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
  3839 N 3rd Street, Suite 209
  Phoenix, AZ 85012-1570
  Email: benefits@azdvs.gov

  For more information applicants can email benefits@azdvs.gov or call 602-234-5804.

  Arizona National Guard State Tuition Reimbursement (STR): STR is a tuition reimbursement program available to eligible Arizona National Guard Service members for education programs to support their professional and personal self-development goals. STR will pay up to $250 per semester hour not to exceed $5250 per state fiscal year.

  Arizona National Guard Service members who meet eligibility requirements are authorized to transfer STR funds up to the maximum annual limitation to their spouse and dependents who are registered in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).
  Who is eligible for STR? STR eligibility is limited to Arizona National Guard members who:

  • Completed a semester as a full or part-time student at a university, community college, vocational/ technical school, or a VA qualified correspondence course.
  • Actively drilling member of the Arizona National Guard in good standing with no active flags throughout the entire time reimbursement is requested
  • Completed Initial Active Duty for Training /Technical Training or Student Flight Training and maintains 90% attendance at scheduled Unit Training Assemblies and annual training
  • Maintained an average academic grade of “C” (or its equivalent) for each course, reimbursement will not be made for courses with a final grade of less than “C”

  Arizona Honorary Diploma Program for War Time Veterans: Arizona’s Honorary Diploma program will provide high school diplomas to eligible Veterans who left high school before graduating to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, Korea, or Vietnam.
  Who is eligible for an Honorary High School Diploma? To be eligible Veterans must meet the following requirements:

  • Arizona Resident
  • Left school to serve during World War II, Korea or Vietnam
  • Received an honorable discharge

  To request an honorary diploma, Veterans must provide documented evidence they enlisted in the U.S. Armed Forces before completing high school, served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, Korea or Vietnam, and they received an honorable discharge. The surviving spouse or other immediate family member of a deceased Veteran may request a diploma.

  To apply complete the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, Honorary Diploma Application and provide required documentation by email to benefits@azdvs.gov, or by mail to:

  Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
  3839 N 3rd Street, Suite 209
  Phoenix, AZ 85012-1570

  For questions or more information email benefits@azdvs.gov or call 602-255-3373.

  

  Arizona Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children: The purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents by:

  • Facilitating the prompt enrollment of children of military families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
  • Facilitating the student placement process through which children of military families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs, and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic, and social activities
  • Facilitating the on-time graduation of children of military families
  • Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
  • Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools, and military families under this compact
  • Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military children
  • Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents and the student in order to achieve educational success for the student

  Point of Contact
  Phone: 602-542-4000

  What are my Arizona Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?

  

  Arizona State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference: Arizona offers Veteran’s preference to applicants who test for Arizona public employment. Preference is given by adding points to passing scores on employment exams.
  Who is eligible for Arizona State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference? Points are added to the following applicants scores:

  Veteran Preference (5 Points) –Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least six months and received an honorable discharge.

  Disabled Veteran (10 Points) – Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces and has a service-connected disability or is receiving compensation or disability retirement benefits.

  Veteran’s Spouse / Surviving Spouse (5 Points) - A spouse or surviving spouse of a:

  • Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
  • Service member listed for 90 days or more as:
    • Missing in action
    • Captured in the line of duty by a hostile force
    • Forcibly detained or interred in the line of duty by a foreign government or power

    Federal Employment Veteran’s Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non-Veterans in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.

    5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:

    • During a war, or
    • During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
    • For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
    • During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
    • For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
    • In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized. Any Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti, qualifies for preference

    10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: Ten points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30% .

    10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.

    10-Point Disability Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:

    • A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
    • A Veteran who received a Purple Heart

    10-Point Derived Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of spouses, surviving spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a spouse (including surviving spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.

    Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and:

    • Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
    • Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
    • Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability

    Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.

    A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.

    Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.

    

    Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that an individual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.

    Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.

    Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.

    Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
    Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits?Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve or National Guard service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.

    The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
    employees.
    VETS Regional Office Locations

    Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), Veterans Employment Assistance and Priority of Service: Arizona DES Offices have dedicated staff who provide individualized career and training-related services to Veterans and “covered persons” with significant barriers to employment. They provide case management to remove barriers to help Veterans become job-ready and find gainful employment.

    DES Offices offers the following services:

    • Tutoring, study skills training and instruction leading to completion of secondary school
    • Alternative school services
    • Mentoring
    • Paid and unpaid work experience (such as internships, apprenticeships, or job shadowing)
    • Occupational skills training
    • Leadership development
    • Supportive services
    • Guidance counseling
    • Follow-up services

    DES also offers priority of service to eligible “covered persons” for employment training and placement services.

    Priority of service means:

    • Receiving earlier access to a service or resource
    • When services or resources are limited, receiving access before or instead of others

    “Covered persons” are defined as:

    • Veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge or release under conditions other than dishonorable (active duty for training does not qualify)
    • Spouse or surviving spouse of a:
    • • Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
      • Veteran who has a total service-connected disability
      • Veteran who died while a disability was in existence
      • Service member who died while serving on active duty
      • Service member listed for 90 days or more as:
        • Missing in action
        • Captured in the line of duty by a hostile force
        • Forcibly detained or interred in the line of duty by a foreign government or power

        Arizona Hilton Honors Military Program: The Arizona Hilton Honors Military Program helps make the career transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian employment easier for current and former service members and their spouses. The Hilton Honors Military Program will provide hotel accommodations for required travel while they are looking for a new job, training for a new job, or finding housing. Those eligible can receive up to a total of 100,000 hotel points for verifiable employment-related activities.
        Who is eligible for Arizona Hilton Honors Military Program? To be eligible for the Hilton Honors Military Program applicants must meet the following requirements:

        • Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 180 days and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, including full-time duty in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves
        • Arizona resident, or lives in Arizona, or moving to Arizona from a state that does not offer the Hilton Honors Military Program
        • Complete a full registration in Arizona Job Connection
        • Currently searching for a job and ready to work
        • Required to travel over 50 miles
        • Create a Hilton Honors account at JoinHonors.com
        • Have a valid email address

        Applicants will be required to provide a copy of their DD214, or if on active duty a copy of active military ID card. For more information, please call 520-872-9186.
        Hilton Honors Military, Frequently Asked Questions
        Hilton Honors Military Program Fact Sheet

        Arizona 'Gold Card' Veterans Employment Initiative: The Gold Card initiative provides unemployed post-9/11 era Veterans with employment assistance and follow-up services atArizona CareerOneStop, American Job Centers. The Gold Card initiative is a joint effort of the Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration (ETA) and the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS).

        Eligible Veterans can receive the following services:

        • Job readiness assessment, including interviews and testing
        • Individual Development Plan
        • Career guidance through group or individual counseling
        • Labor market, occupational, and skills transferability information
        • Job referrals
        • Referral to apprenticeship programs
        • Training referrals
        • Monthly follow-up by case manager for up to six months

        Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services (ADVS), Veteran Toolkit Program: The ADVS Veteran Tool Kit Program was created to help unemployed Veterans get the supplies needed to start working.

        Items available include:

        • Work clothing
        • Tools
        • Protective equipment
        • Transportation
        • Essential electronic devices
        • Other required items on a case by case basis

        Who is eligible for the ADVS, Veteran Toolkit Program? Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

        • Live in Arizona
        • Served in the U.S. Armed Forces
        • Enrolled in the Arizona Job Connection with ARIZONA@WORK
        • Identify the job they need supplies for

        What are my Arizona Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

        Arizona Unemployment Insurance (UI): UI provides temporary financial assistance for workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is a partial, short-term replacement of lost wages while workers are seeking other work and is not intended to be a permanent source of income. Benefits are not based on financial need.

        To be eligible for UI applicants must be able to work, available for work and actively seeking employment. Applicants should file for UI as soon as possible after the last day of work.

        Applicants will need the following information to file a UI claim:

        • Social Security Number
        • Arizona Driver's License or Arizona State Issued ID number
        • Mailing address and Arizona county of residence
        • Names, addresses and phone numbers of all employers for the last 18 months
        • Severance, vacation, holiday, or payment for unused sick pay (amount before deductions and date paid)
        • Last day worked
        • Name and number of union hall (if applicable)
        • Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
        • DD214 (Copy# 4) if released from the U.S. Armed Forces in the last 18 months
        • SF8 or SF50 if employed in federal civilian service in the last 18 months
        • Start date and monthly benefit amount of any pension (other than Social Security)

        What are my Arizona Military and Veterans Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Benefits?

        

        Veteran Designation on Arizona Driver Licenses, Instruction Permits and Identification (ID) Cards: Arizona offers a Veteran Designation on Arizona driver licenses, instruction permits, and ID cards for active duty service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and Veterans who received a discharge other than dishonorable.

        The Veteran Designation can be applied for at any Arizona Motor Vehicle Division field office or third party vendor that processes driver license transactions.
        Arizona Motor Vehicles Division Hours and Locations

        Applicants must provide one of the following documents when they apply:

        • DD214, DD215, DD2 (Retired), DD2 (Reserve), DD217
        • Active duty military ID card (CAC)
        • Inactive duty ID card
        • Original Statement of Honorable Service from the VA or Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
        • Certificate of Honorable Discharge
        • American Legion ID card
        • Disabled American Veteran ID card
        • Military Officers of America ID card
        • VA Medical card
        • Veterans of Foreign Wars ID card
        • Military Order of the Purple Heart
        • Vietnam Veterans of America ID card

        Arizona Military and Veterans Special Vehicle License Plates: The Arizona Department of Transportation offers 26 distinctive license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of service members, Veterans, retired service members and eligible family members.

        All military and Veteran license plates are available with the international symbol of access. Disabled applicants must provide a completed Arizona Department of Transportation, Individual Disability - Hearing Impaired Plate/Placard Application (Form 96-0104) when they apply.

        

        Arizona Medal of Honor License Plate: The Arizona Medal of Honor license plate is available free of charge to Medal of Honor recipients. Applicants must provide an original letter from the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services verifying eligibility. This license plate is available by special order only using the Arizona Department of Transportation, Special Plate Application (Form 96-0143) .

        

        Arizona Purple Heart License Plate: The Arizona Purple Heart license plate is available to Veterans who are Purple Heart recipients for a $25 initial application fee, and $5 annual renewal fee. For an additional $25 this plate may be personalized with a maximum of 5 characters. Applicants can apply by submitting a completed application and any required documentation to the address on the form.
        Arizona Department of Transportation, Special Plate Application (Form 96-0143) .

        Applicant must provide a copy of their DD214 or DD215, WDAGO forms 53-55, NAVPERS 553 or NAVMC 78, which indicates they are a Purple Heart recipient or provide an original letter from the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services verifying eligibility. The plate may also be issued to the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of an eligible Veteran who has been issued this plate.

        

        Arizona Veteran License Plate: The Arizona Veteran license plate is available to Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge for a $25 initial fee and a $25 annual renewal fee. These license plates may be ordered online from the Arizona Department of Transportation, Online Special License Plate webpage. For an additional $25 fee the plate may be personalized with a maximum of six characters.

        Applicants are required to provide one of the following documents as proof of eligibility:

        • Copy of the DD214, DD215, DD2-retired, DD2-Reserve or DD1173
        • Original statement of honorable service from the VA or the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
        • American Legion ID card
        • Disabled American Veterans ID card
        • Military Officers of America ID card
        • VA Medical ID card
        • Veteran of Foreign Wars ID card
        • Military Order of the Purple Heart
        • Vietnam Veterans of America ID card
        • U.S. Armed Forces ID card

        The plate may also be issued to the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of an eligible Veteran who has been issued this plate.
        Arizona Department of Veterans' Services, Veteran License Plate Information

        

        Arizona Gold Star Family License Plate: The Arizona Gold Star Family License plate is available to the spouse, child (by adoption or blood), parent, or sibling of a service member who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for a $25 initial fee and a $25 annual renewal fee. These license plates may be personalized with a maximum of five characters. Applicants can apply by submitting a completed application and any required documentation to the address on the form.
        Arizona Department of Transportation, Special Plate Application (Form 96-0143)

        Arizona Driver License Extension for Active Military: The Arizona driver license of a resident service member remains valid until six months after discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces.

        Service Member Exemption from Arizona Driver License Photo Update and Vision Test Requirement: Service members who have an Arizona driver license and register with the Arizona Department of Transportation that they are serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces are exempt from the requirement to update their photo and pass a vision test every 12 years.

        

        Arizona Vehicle Registration Renewal for Out of State Service Members: Arizona residents serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who are stationed out of state may renew their vehicle registration online at the Arizona Department of Transportation, Online Vehicle Registration Renewal webpage, or by mail to:

        Motor Vehicle Division
        PO Box 29008
        Phoenix, AZ 85038
        (pay by check or money order)

        Emissions exemptions are available for service member who are out of state at the time of registration renewal. Applications for a Military Out of State Emissions Exemption may be submitted online.

        Arizona Resident Special Military Vehicle License Tax Exemption: Arizona offers deployed service members a one year exemption on vehicle license tax and registration fees, once per deployment for up to two vehicles. This exemption can be claimed during the deployment and for up to one year after the service member redeploys or is released from active duty.
        Who is eligible for the Arizona Resident Special Military Vehicle License Tax Exemption? The service member must meet all the qualifications below:

        • Arizona resident owner or lessee of a vehicle
        • Serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces
        • Deployed in support of a worldwide contingency operation

        A spouse, surviving spouse or legally designated representative may request an exemption on behalf of a service member who is serving on active duty and is listed as missing in action, or who dies while serving on active duty. The date of death must be in the current or previous registration year.

        Applicants for the exemption must ensure all other registration requirements are met and submit a completed Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles, Special Military Exemptionform for each vehicle and military orders at the time of registration.

        Arizona 100% Disabled Veteran License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption: Veterans who are 100% disabled and receiving compensation from the VA are eligible for a vehicle license tax and registration fee exemption for one vehicle they own or co-own.

        This exemption is also authorized for the unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased Veteran who was eligible.

        Arizona Resident Vehicle Bought with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Financial Aid, License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption: Veterans who receive financial assistance from the VA to purchase a specially adapted vehicle are exempt from vehicle license tax and registration fee.

        Nonresident Active Duty Service Members Exempt from Arizona License Tax Portion of Vehicle Registration: Nonresident Active duty service members stationed in Arizona are not required to pay the vehicle license tax portion of the annual vehicle registration.
        Who is eligible for an Exemption of the License Tax Portion of Vehicle Registration? To register a vehicle, nonresident active duty service members must:

        • Provide an affidavit for vehicle license tax exemption of nonresident service personnel issued and certified by their commanding officer or a military Leave and Earnings Statement
        • Meet all applicable vehicle emissions test requirements
        • Pay any other required fees

        If a nonresident service member is reassigned overseas from an Arizona duty station and the spouse or dependent remain in Arizona, this exemption will still apply (nonresident service member’s name must appear on the vehicle title).

        Arizona Commercial Driver License (CDL) Skills Test Waiver: Arizona offers a CDL Skills Test Waiver to service members and former service members based on their military training and experience.

        Applicants must meet these two conditions:

        • Currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or separated within the last year under honorable conditions
        • Operated a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) similar to the commercial vehicle class they are applying for at least two years immediately prior to discharge or applying for the waiver

        Applicants must also meet the following requirements:

        • Not had more than one license (except for a military license) in the past two years
        • Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled in the past two years
        • Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying offenses (listed on the application)
        • Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations (listed on the application)
        • Have not had had any conviction for a violation of military, state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking violation) as a result of a traffic accident and has no record of an accident in which they were at fault

        What are my Arizona Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?

        Arizona National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death that Occurs in the Line of Duty Provided by Workers’ Compensation: Arizona National Guard Service members who are injured, become ill, disabled, or die in the line of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation under Arizona Workers’ Compensation laws.

        Workers' compensation benefits will not be paid when similar benefits are provided under any federal law or regulation. Arizona Workers’ Compensation Laws, Title 23, Chapter 6
        Who is eligible for Medical Coverage for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death that Occurs in the Line of Duty Provided by Workers’ Compensation? Arizona National Guard service members who are injured, become ill, disabled, or die in the line of duty are eligible for coverage and compensation.

        State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) for Arizona National Guard Service Members: SSLI offered through the National Guard Association of Arizona is made up of several voluntary group life policies that are designed to help meet the needs of Arizona National Guard Service members and their families. Every member of the Arizona National Guard is covered with $1,000 SSLI at no cost to the service member.

        Coverage Overview:

        • Coverage available up to $260,000 for service members
        • Coverage available for spouses and children
        • Coverage continues until age 70
        • Benefits paid within 24-48 hours of notification (No death certificate required)
        • Rates do not go up when service members separate from the National Guard (one increase at age 50 and a second increase at age 60)
        • Monthly premiums can be payroll deducted
        • No war, aviation, or terrorism clauses
        • Two-year suicide clause

        Who is eligible for SSLI for Arizona National Guard Service Members? Arizona National Guard service members and their dependents are eligible for SSLI.

        U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance:The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component service members, and their families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:

        • Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
        • Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
        • Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
        • Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
        • Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
        • Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)

        Tricare Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard service members) and their families who meet the following qualifications:

        • Not on active duty orders
        • Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
        • Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a family member

        The plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a service member is not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.

        What are my Arizona Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?

        Free or Reduced Price Arizona Hunting and Fishing Combination License for Disabled Veterans and Purple Heart Recipients: Arizona offers free or reduced price hunting and fishing combination licenses to eligible Veterans.
        Who is eligible for Free or Reduced Price Arizona Hunting and Fishing Combination License for Disabled Veterans and Purple Heart Recipients? To be eligible Veterans must have been an Arizona resident for at least one year prior to application and meet one of the following requirements:

        • Free License –Has a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating from the VA
        • Reduced Fee License ($42) –Has less than 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA
        • Purple Heart Recipient ($28) – Purple Heart recipient

        Applications and required documentation (listed on the application) may be submitted at any Arizona Game and Fish Department office or by mail to:

        Arizona Game and Fish Department
        Attn: Front counter
        5000 W. Carefree Highway
        Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000

        An optional plastic card license may be purchased for $4. Include a check or money order if applying by mail.
        Arizona Game and Fish Department Contact Us Webpage

        Arizona Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Nonresident Service Members and their Spouse at Resident Rates: Nonresident active duty service members and their spouse who are stationed in Arizona for 30 or more days for either permanent or temporary duty are eligible to purchase Arizona Game and Fish Department licenses for resident prices.
        Arizona Game and Fish Department, Residency Brochure

        

        Arizona State Parks Veterans Discount Program:Arizona State Parks offer several discounts to service members and Veterans. Discounts apply to the pass holder and up to three accompanying adults.

        • Active Duty, National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service Members – Show military ID at gate to receive 50% off the day-use entrance fee (no pass required)
        • Partially Disabled Veteran - 50% off day-use pass for all service-connected disabled Veterans with a disability rating from the VA between 10-90%, must provide a copy of their VA Benefit Summary Letter and show their Arizona driver license
        • Arizona Resident Retired Veterans - 50% off day-use pass for retired Veterans, must provide a copy of DD214, or retired military ID card and show their Arizona driver license
        • 100% Disabled Veterans - Free day-use pass for Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disabled rating from the VA, must provide a copy of VA Benefit Summary Letter and show their Arizona driver license

        Discounts do not apply for the following:

        • Kartchner Caverns State Park Cave tour tickets
        • Riordan Mansion State Historic Park tour tickets
        • Historic Park tours
        • Special use fees
        • Special program fees
        • Special events fees
        • Special event admission fees
        • Reservation fees
        • Camping fees
        • Overnight parking fees

        Pass is not transferable and photo ID is required for entrance. Those eligible can request a Veterans Discount Program Pass at any Arizona State Park (partner parks not included) or at the Central Phoenix Office:

        Arizona State Parks & Trails
        1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 100
        Phoenix, AZ 85007

        What are my Arizona Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?

        Arizona Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF): Arizona MFRF provides financial assistance to active duty service members, Veterans, and their families for unforeseen financial hardships caused by the service member’s or Veteran’s military service.

        MFRF is designed to help with basic living expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances and can provide one-time assistance of $3,000 with a lifetime limit of $20,000. Basic living expenses include (but are not limited to) rental assistance, vehicle payments, utility assistance, etc. Common issues not covered by MFRF are VA debts, education, child support, credit cards, legal fees, etc.
        Who is eligible for Arizona MFRF Assistance?Service members and Veterans discharged under honorable conditions who meet the following requirements may be eligible for assistance:

        • Deployed away from their home station, outside the continental U.S. and its territories
        • Arizona Residency (one of the following must apply):
          • Arizona is the service member’s home of record, or
          • Arizona National Guard service member at time of deployment, or
          • Deployed from an Arizona military installation, or
          • 12 months of continuous residence in Arizona prior to application
          • Financial Hardship (one of the following must apply):
            • Current or past military service caused their current financial hardship
            • Family members must demonstrate that a financial hardship is due to the service member’s current military service
            • Surviving families of a service member or Veteran who died, or was wounded in the line of duty and need financial assistance with travel and living expenses

            If a surviving spouse or dependent child of a deceased service member is applying for financial assistance, the service member must have died in the line of duty in a combat zone or an area where the service member was receiving hazardous duty pay.
            Arizona MFRF Online Application

            Arizona Gold Star Military Medal: The Arizona Gold Star Military Medal is awarded to the family of an Arizona service member who is killed in action while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
            Who is eligible for the Arizona Gold Star Military Medal?The Arizona Gold Star Military Medal may be awarded to the families of an Arizona resident service member who was killed in action on or after February 13, 1912, while:

            • Engaged in action against an enemy of the U.S.
            • Engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force
            • Serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the U.S. is not a belligerent party
            • Serving in a combat zone as designated by a presidential order

            Only one medal will be issued to the next-of-kin per qualifying individual. Families applying must submit a completed application, DD1300 Report of Casualty as well as proof of family relationship to:

            Arizona Gold Star Military Medal
            c/o Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
            3839 N 3rd Street
            Phoenix, AZ 85012

            Arizona Veterans Court: Arizona Veterans Court is a collaborative process that includes the prosecutor, defense counsel, Judge, the VA, the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, and other community-based support organizations. The goal of Veterans Court is to rehabilitate and restore Veterans as active, contributing members of their community.

            Veterans Court programs typically focus on Veterans who are currently in, or entering, the Criminal Justice System. The Court creates and supervises treatment plans to address the underlying causes of the Veteran's issues. Issues commonly addressed include:

            • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
            • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
            • Anger issues
            • Domestic Violence
            • Alcohol abuse
            • Drug Abuse

            By focusing on the root problems that contribute to involvement in the criminal justice system and providing specific rehabilitation programs, Veterans Courts provide an opportunity for the Veteran to return to the community in a more advantageous and beneficial manner.

            Arizona State Veteran Homes (ASVH): ASVHs provide professional skilled nursing and rehabilitative care for senior or chronically ill Veterans and their spouse. Their goal is for each Veteran to attain or maintain their highest possible physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being.

            ASVH Locations:

            ASVH Phoenix - 104 bed skilled nursing facility

            

            
            4141 North Silvestre Herrera Way
            Phoenix, AZ 85012
            Phone: 602-248-1550

            

            ASVH Tucson - 120 bed skilled nursing facility
            
            555 East Ajo Way
            Tucson, AZ 85713
            Phone: 520-638-2150

            ASVH Flagstaff - 80 bed skilled nursing facility *under construction*
            2100 N Gemini Drive
            Flagstaff, AZ 86004
            Phone: 602-255-3373

            ASVH Yuma - 80 bed skilled nursing facility
            6051 E 34th Street
            Yuma, AZ 85365
            Phone: 928-247-8300

            Who is eligible for care at an ASVH? Veterans who received a discharge other than dishonorable from the U.S. Armed Forces and their spouse are eligible for admission at an ASVH. All applicants must require skilled nursing care (as determined by a physician) and provide evidence they do not have tuberculosis.
            ASVH Application Packet

            Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemeteries (AVMC): Arizona has five State Veteran Cemeteries that offer a dignified final resting place for service members, Veterans, and their eligible family members.

            
            1300 S Buffalo Soldier Trail
            Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
            Email: avmc-sv@azdvs.gov
            Phone: 520-458-7144
            Fax: 520-843-2329
            AVMC-SV Brochure

            
            14317 Veterans Drive
            Bellemont, AZ 86015
            Email: avmc-cn@azdvs.gov
            Phone: 928-214-3473
            Fax: 928-752-2775

            Burial in the cemetery includes a burial plot, opening and closing of the grave, a concrete liner (casket burials only), government marker, and perpetual care. A Columbaria Niche or in ground burial of cremated remains is also available. Spaces are assigned at the time of need and may not be reserved. There is no charge for burial for Veterans and a one-time fee of $780 for eligible spouses and dependents burials. AVMC Service Payment Information

            Arizona also has two Tribal Veterans Cemeteries. For more information, please contact the cemetery directly.

            Monte Calvario Veterans Cemetery aka New Pascua Yaqui Cemetery
            5149 W. Omokol
            Tucson, AZ 85757
            Phone: 520-879-6317
            Fax: 520-879-6308

            San Carlos Apache Tribal Veterans Cemetery
            42700 W US Highway 70
            San Carlos, AZ 85550
            Phone: 928-475-2361

            U.S Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration State Cemetery Information
            Who is eligible for Burial at an AVMC? Eligibility requirements for the burial at the Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Complete eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:

            • Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
            • Died while serving on active duty, or
            • Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and qualified for military retired pay (or would have qualified except death occurred before age 60), or
            • Reserve component service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
            • Spouses and dependents (burial of dependent children is limited to unmarried children under 21 years old, or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution, or a child who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)

            U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Arizona

            U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Arizona: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.

            Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Arizona

            U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Arizona: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in Arizona. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.

            Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
            3839 N 3 rd Street
            Phoenix AZ, 85012
            Phone: 602-255-3373

            Military Installations in Arizona

            Active Duty