California veterans can now get a special designation on their driver license or ID card that gives them access to all types of benefits.
The DMV and California Department of Veterans Affairs rolled out the program less than five months ago, and it's already a huge success.
Some 20,000 vets have signed up for the designation so far, and now have the word “VETERAN” displayed visibly on their driver license.
It not only recognizes the veteran served in the U.S. Military, but also provides access to certain privileges, benefits, and compensation without having to carry and produce a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty form.
CalVet spokesman, Paul Sullivan says it’s easy to get with the program.
“Get you military records. Go see your county veterans service officer, and then set up an appointment at the DMV. It's all done really fast and really simple,” he says.
Sullivan says going through the process also makes veterans more aware of other important benefits.
“As a veteran, it's an honor that the government recognizes my service. That's great. The second is, as part of the process, veterans go to county veterans services officers and learn about their benefits. Lastly, yes, a lot of merchants like to look for evidence of veterans status and it will be right there on the driver license. Easy to verify,” he says.
In fact, Sullivan says 2,000 vets have signed up for outreach and benefit programs as a result.
And many retailers like Home Depot are now offering select discounts to veterans with the license designation.