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EMS License Frequently Asked Questions

DMV Field Offices:  http://www.dmv.ca.gov/fo/offices/toc_fo.htm

WHAT IS THE EMS LICENSE PLATE?
An official license plate issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles to currently registered vehicles. Net proceeds from sales and renewal of the plates will benefit EMS and allied health personnel and the State Environmental License Plate Fund.

HOW MUCH DOES THE EMS PLATE COST?
New sequential plates are $50 with a $40 annual renewal fee) and personalized plates (new or conversions) are $90 with a $70 annual renewal fee.

WHAT WILL THE EMS LICENSE FUND BE USED FOR?
The funds will be used to support a competitive grant program funding one or more of the following areas: public education and information, prevention, EMS recognition programs, training for EMTs and paramedics, and automated external defibrillator programs.

CAN I KEEP MY CURRENT PERSONALIZED LICENSE PLATE?
Yes, you can convert your current personalized plate, (must be 6 characters or less) to an EMS plate. You must indicate this on the application.

HOW DO I KNOW IF PERSONALIZED PLATE I WANT IS AVAILABLE?
You can check the current availability of specific plates at https://vrir.dmv.ca.gov/ipp2/initPers.do.  If the plate you want is available you may request it. However, all requests are processed on a first come, first served basis and personalized plates are not guaranteed until your application is processed by the DMV (after the minimum 7500 applications have been received).

WHEN CAN I EXPECT MY NEW EMS PLATES?
The EMS Authority must first collect 7500 applications before the DMV will begin issuing the new EMS Plates. These must be collected within a year from the time the first application is accepted. If the 7500 application target is not met, all application fees will be refunded. Once the DMV begins issuing the EMS plates, at least 7500 new or renewal plates must be registered every year thereafter or the program will be cancelled.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I SELL MY CAR?
If you sell or trade-in your car before you receive the EMS plate, contact the DMV, enclosing a copy of the temporary ID or registration card of the new car. If you sell your car when you already have the EMS plate you can transfer them to your new car. The fee is $15 for sequential plates, $45 for personalized plates.

CAN I GIVE THE EMS PLATE AS A GIFT?
Yes. Please make sure to fill in the gift statement section while making sure to supply your name, address and phone number as the license plate purchaser.

ARE COMMERCIAL PLATES AVAILABLE?
Yes. The new series for the EMS license plate will include sequences identifiable as commercial plates. Include a copy of your registration card, with a note that this is a commercial plate. There is no extra charge.

WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?
For up to date information, FAQs and current license plate reservation numbers, you can check out the EMS License Plate website at: http://www.emsa.ca.gov/about/license_plate/ . Or you can contact staff directly at:

Adam Morrill
Emergency Medical Services Authority
1930 9th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
916-322-4336 x 436
amorrill@emsa.ca.gov