u/justmep3

I just wanted to share some information, some of which is a repeat, but also with updated dates so you know that it is relevant for at least June 2026.

My husband tried to ask his PCM (PA at La Jolla VA) and even his neurologist (also La Jolla VA), but both denied him. The PA incorrectly cited the state rule as two other items did apply to him even though the 100% for one thing didn't apply. He didn't bother trying to go to any county VSOs in San Diego after all of the information people shared on here.

I took him to Temecula (CalVet office) with his state ID, copy of his DD214 and a VA site generated letter stating his dates of service, that he is 100% total, that it is service connected, that it is total and permanent, and the effective date of said total and permanent disability status. I brought these based on some research in this group. However, they also wanted a benefits letter showing the breakdown of what his ratings are (they have a sign in the lobby that says this last one is required). We didn't have that, but I quickly pulled it up on my phone and emailed it to the rep that helped us (Greg). We didn't have an appointment, but the wait wasn't too long (maybe 15 minutes) after checking in on their kiosk.

My husband does not have 100% for any one thing. However, he has a mobility issue that requires him to wear a brace. Without the brace, he has loss of use to that leg from the knee down (and you can tell he lost a great portion of it- they almost amputated it). Greg mentioned how San Diego offices are super strict about helping vets get this form and he said that he didn't know why. Anyway, Greg signed off on the VS001 form and then we went around the corner and down the block to the Temecula DMV.

I had read that he could skip waiting, but we told the door person what we were there for and he had my husband scan the QR code to "get in line". We waited about 20-25 minutes before the number was called (every seat was filled). My husband presented the form VS001 and I handed over the plates/registration that we were sent from the dealership (new car). She gave us two forms after she asked if he wanted a placard for when he wasn't with me in the car. She gave us a red temporary paper for the car window and a permanent placard (good until sometime in 2027). She said they would mail the DV plates. I asked about getting a refund for the DMV fees/registration we paid to the dealer that was paid to DMV on our behalf and she said "Go look online for the form to request a refund. You should get it because you are doing this in a timely manner". HOWEVER, once I looked it up, she should have been able to give us that form in person and then we could have submitted it right away instead of having to either mail it in or go to another DMV to submit it.

TIPS:

1. We are both listed as joint owners on the car (my name first, then "OR", then his name is how it is listed).
2. He cannot drive/has never had a driver license, but that doesn't matter because he is a joint owner of the car. He showed his CA ID card. *Obviously the car can only be parked in disabled spots if he is with me or I am picking him up*
3. You need form "ADM 399" (Application for Refund) to complete the information to request a refund. Mark the box "other" and put "Disabled Veteran Fee Exemption".
4. We also completed form "Reg 256" (Statement of Facts) under "G" to list out the information of why we are requesting a refund (the dealer would not help us to get DV plates and waive the fee at the start of purchasing the car). We also have attached copies of the following: temporary tag the dealer put in our window at purchase, the red temporary permit we just got relating to DV plate, customer receipt copy related to the DV plate, and a copy of VS001 form. I plan on placing a copy of the contract from the dealer stating the DMV fees that we paid. There was nothing stating that any of this was needed, but I figured the more proof of the transaction and justification for asking for the refund the better.
5. I regret not asking for a second VS001 form because Greg briefly mentioned something about getting it for a disabled vet license or ID. I was just so happy to have gotten the first one that I told my husband we don't need it and let's go because I was so happy that we didn't have to fight for the one like people in San Diego would have to do unfortunately. I do recall reading how some others asked for two so that they could break up the transactions of getting the DV plate and getting the placard because they worried doing both at the same time would be a problem but this lady at the DMV made that part so easy without needing another VS001 form. I wish I remembered her name, but I think it was window 14 and she was a brunette who "is also from San Diego".
6. We plan on going to a local DMV to try to turn in the request for refund (we don't expect the money to be handed over, but figured it is easier to have it in their hands asap). I do recall the Temecula DMV lady stating "it takes about 2-3 months" to get the refund.

Anyway, sorry it was so long, but hope it helps. I chased down so many threads and thank all who participated in those threads. Some of them had some info while others had other info. I tried to put everything in this so you don't have to look all over.