Yes! You can use AI to fill out California DMV Form REG 17 (Rev. 7/2012), Special Interest License Plate Application
California DMV Form REG 17 (Special Interest License Plate Application) is the official application used to request special interest plates (personalized or sequential), choose a plate program/design, and specify pickup location. It also supports transactions after issuance, including replacement of lost/stolen/mutilated plates and reassignment, retention for future use (with annual fees), or release of interest when a vehicle is sold or transferred. The form is important because special interest plates belong to the plate owner (not the vehicle) and must be properly assigned to a currently registered California vehicle (not on PNO) to remain valid. Today, this form can be completed quickly and accurately using AI-powered services like Instafill.ai, which can also convert non-fillable PDF versions into interactive fillable forms.
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Form specifications
| Form name: | California DMV Form REG 17 (Rev. 7/2012), Special Interest License Plate Application |
| Number of pages: | 1 |
| Language: | English |
| Categories: | DMV forms, California DMV forms, vehicle registration forms, license plate forms |
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How to Fill Out REG 17 Online for Free in 2026
Are you looking to fill out a REG 17 form online quickly and accurately? Instafill.ai offers the #1 AI-powered PDF filling software of 2026, allowing you to complete your REG 17 form in just 37 seconds or less.
Follow these steps to fill out your REG 17 form online using Instafill.ai:
- 1 Go to Instafill.ai, search for “REG 17” (California Special Interest License Plate Application) or upload the PDF.
- 2 Select the transaction type: Original, Conversion, Replacement, or Reassign/Retain/Release, based on what you are trying to do.
- 3 Enter plate owner information (plate number if applicable, full legal name, mailing address, city, state, ZIP) and complete the gift recipient section if the plates are a gift.
- 4 Complete the plate order details: personalized vs. non-personalized, vehicle type (auto/truck/trailer/motorcycle), pickup location (DMV office or Auto Club) and the specific location name.
- 5 Choose the plate program/type (e.g., Environmental/ELP, Arts, CalAg, Firefighter, Memorial, Whale Tail, Kids, Lake Tahoe, Olympic Training Center, PUC Livery, POW, Yosemite, Veterans) and attach any required documentation (e.g., Firefighter proof, PUC permit, POW documentation, Veterans organizational code).
- 6 If ordering personalized plates, enter up to three plate configuration choices exactly as required (including centering preference, and using “/” for half-space and “*” for full space) and provide the meaning for each choice.
- 7 Review for completeness, then e-sign and date the form, add a daytime phone number, and follow Instafill.ai’s guidance to download/submit the completed application with the correct fees to the DMV address shown on the form.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Form REG 17
REG 17 is the California DMV Special Interest License Plate Application. Itâs used to order new special interest plates, convert from an existing plate, replace lost/damaged plates, or reassign/retain/release special interest plates you already own.
The plates must be assigned to a vehicle that is currently registered in California. The vehicle cannot be on Planned Non-Operation (PNO).
Check Original for first-time ordering, Conversion to switch an existing plate to a special interest plate, Replacement if your plate is lost/stolen/mutilated or you want a new design, and Reassign/Retain/Release to move the plates to another vehicle, keep them for later, or give up your interest.
Original/Conversion: complete Sections 1, 2, 3, and 6. Replacement: complete Sections 1, 2, 5, and 6. Reassign/Retain/Release: complete Sections 1, 4, and 6.
They belong to the plate owner, not the vehicle. If you sell or transfer the vehicle, you can remove the plates before transfer and reassign them to another vehicle or retain them for future use.
You must provide the plate ownerâs true full name and mailing address (street or P.O. Box), plus city, state, and ZIP code. If the plates are a gift, you can also complete the gift statement with the recipientâs name.
Personalized plates let you choose the characters (subject to DMV approval). Non-personalized plates require you to submit your current registration card and youâll receive the next available plate in that series.
ELP, Coastal, Lake Tahoe, PUC Livery, and Yosemite allow 2â7 characters; most other plates allow 2â6 characters (all numbers: 2â5 digits). Ex-POW plates must be four numbers only, and motorcycle plates generally allow 2â5 characters and display a decal on the left.
Use an asterisk (*) to indicate a full space and a slash (/) to indicate a half spaceâeach space uses one box. If you want the text centered, center it as you write it; if you do not want it centered, check the âdo not want the plate centeredâ box.
The DMV requires a meaning/explanation for each requested configuration (even if it seems obvious) to help evaluate the request. The DMV may refuse combinations that are offensive, misleading, or conflict with existing plate series.
Noâonce the reservation is made, the DMV will not honor changes to the choice or spacing, and it will not process a refund request. Itâs best to double-check your characters, spacing symbols, and meanings before submitting.
Some plates require proof, such as CA Firefighter eligibility documentation, Ex-POW documentation, or a copy of the PUC permit for PUC Livery plates. If you select one of these plate types, include the required documentation with your application.
In Section 5, select whether you need one or two plates and indicate the reason (lost, mutilated, stolen, or new design). If both personalized plates were lost or stolen, the same plate cannot be reissuedâyou must make a new choice in Sections 2 and 3.
Mail the completed form and fees to: DMV â SPU, P.O. Box 932345 â MS D238, Sacramento, CA 94232-3450. You must also sign and date the form in Section 6 and include a daytime phone number.
YesâAI tools can help reduce errors and save time; services like Instafill.ai can auto-fill form fields accurately based on your information. If your REG 17 PDF is flat/non-fillable, Instafill.ai can convert it into an interactive fillable form and then help you complete it online.
Compliance REG 17
Validation Checks by Instafill.ai
1
Application Type Selection Is Exactly One (Original/Conversion/Replacement/Reassign-Retain-Release)
Validate that exactly one application type checkbox is selected: ORIGINAL, CONVERSION, REPLACEMENT, or REASSIGN/RETAIN/RELEASE. This drives which sections are required and prevents conflicting workflows (e.g., requesting both a replacement and a reassignment). If validation fails, reject the submission and prompt the applicant to select only one application type.
2
Required Sections Completed Based on Application Type
Enforce section completeness rules stated on the form: Original/Conversion require Sections 1, 2, 3, and 6; Replacement requires Sections 1, 2, 5, and 6; Reassign/Retain/Release requires Sections 1, 4, and 6. This ensures DMV has the minimum data needed to process the specific request. If required sections/fields are missing, the submission should be flagged as incomplete and not accepted until corrected.
3
Plate Owner Identity and Mailing Address Completeness
Verify Plate Owner last name, first name, mailing address, city, state, and ZIP code are present (middle name optional). The form explicitly requests the âtrue full name,â and a complete mailing address is required for correspondence and record matching. If any required identity/address fields are missing, return an error indicating which fields must be completed.
4
State Code Must Be Valid Two-Letter Abbreviation
Validate that the Plate Owner state field is exactly two alphabetic characters and matches a valid US state/territory abbreviation (e.g., CA). This prevents undeliverable mail and standardizes address data for downstream systems. If invalid, block submission and request a corrected state abbreviation.
5
ZIP Code Format Validation (5 or 9 Digits)
Check that ZIP code is either 5 digits (#####) or ZIP+4 (#####-#### or ######### depending on system rules). Correct ZIP formatting improves mail delivery and reduces manual correction. If the ZIP code fails validation, require the applicant to re-enter it in an accepted format.
6
Gift Statement Recipient Name Completeness When Provided
If any Gift Statement recipient name field is filled, require at minimum recipient first and last name (middle optional). Partial gift recipient data can create ambiguity about ownership/purchaser intent and may cause misassignment. If incomplete, prompt the user to either complete the recipient name or clear the gift statement fields.
7
Section 2 Personalization Option Must Select Exactly One
For Original/Conversion/Replacement, validate that exactly one of Personalized or Non-Personalized is checked. This selection determines whether plate configuration choices in Section 3 are required and how the order is fulfilled. If both or neither are selected, reject the submission and request a single selection.
8
Section 2 Vehicle Type Must Select Exactly One and Enforce Motorcycle Rules
For Original/Conversion/Replacement, ensure exactly one vehicle type is selected: Auto, Truck, Trailer, or Motorcycle. If Motorcycle is selected, enforce motorcycle-specific configuration limits (2â5 characters) and ensure the request is consistent with motorcycle plate display constraints. If invalid, block submission and request a corrected vehicle type and/or configuration.
9
Pickup Location Selection and Location Text Requirement
For Original/Conversion/Replacement, validate that exactly one pickup option is selected (DMV Office or Auto Club) and that the corresponding location field is populated. Auto Club pickup should also be restricted to eligible users (if membership is captured elsewhere) or at minimum flagged for verification. If missing or conflicting, return an error requiring a single pickup choice and a specific location.
10
Plate Type Selection Must Be Exactly One and Trigger Conditional Fields/Attachments
Validate that exactly one plate type is selected in Section 2 Part 4 (e.g., ELP, Arts, CalAg, Firefighter, POW, Veterans, PUC Livery, etc.). Certain plate types require additional data or documentation (e.g., Veterans organizational code, Firefighter proof, POW documentation, PUC permit copy). If multiple/none are selected or required supporting items are missing, reject submission and specify what must be added.
11
Veterans Plate Organizational Code Required When Veterans Selected
If the Veterans plate type is selected, require the Veterans Organizational Code field to be present and conform to expected format (e.g., alphanumeric code length per DMV program rules). This code determines the benefiting organization and is necessary for correct issuance and fund allocation. If missing/invalid, prevent submission until a valid code is provided.
12
Personalized Plate Choices and Meanings Required for Original/Conversion (and When Personalized)
For Original/Conversion requests (and especially when Personalized is selected), require at least the first plate choice text and its meaning/explanation; if second/third choices are provided, require meanings for each provided choice. The form states the application will not be accepted unless the meaning is explained, even if it appears obvious. If meanings are missing, reject the application and request the missing explanations.
13
Plate Configuration Character Set and Spacing Symbol Validation
Validate that plate choice text uses only allowed characters (AâZ, 0â9) plus the special spacing indicators defined by the form: '/' for half-space and '*' for full space. Disallow other punctuation/symbols and enforce that '/' and '*' are used only as spacing markers, not as literal characters. If invalid characters are found, block submission and highlight the offending characters/positions.
14
Plate Configuration Length Rules by Plate Type and Vehicle Type
Enforce the formâs length constraints: ELP/Coastal/Lake Tahoe/PUC Livery/Yosemite allow 2â7 characters; most others allow 2â6; all-numeric configurations allow 2â5 digits; motorcycle configurations allow 2â5 characters; Ex-POW must be exactly four numbers only (after the POW prefix/medal per program). This prevents manufacturing/series conflicts and ensures the configuration fits the plate design. If the configuration violates rules, reject and provide the applicable limit based on the selected plate and vehicle type.
15
Replacement Section 5 Quantity and Reason Must Be Exactly One Each
If REPLACEMENT is selected, require exactly one quantity option (One Plate or Two Plates) and exactly one reason (Lost, Mutilated, Stolen, New Design). This ensures correct fee assessment and processing path (e.g., stolen vs. new design). If multiple/none are selected, reject submission and request a single selection in each category.
16
Replacement Lost/Stolen Personalized Reissue Restriction Flag
If REPLACEMENT is selected and the reason is Lost or Stolen and the request indicates both personalized plates are affected (e.g., Two Plates + Personalized), flag that the same plate cannot be reissued per the form instructions and require new choices in Sections 2 and 3. This prevents an order that DMV cannot legally/process-wise fulfill. If the applicant does not provide new choices, block submission and instruct them to enter new plate choices.
17
Reassign/Retain/Release Section 4 Completeness and Mutual Exclusivity
If REASSIGN/RETAIN/RELEASE is selected, require the Special Interest Plate Number and the 'Removed From' VIN; if plates are being placed on another vehicle, require either the target current license plate number and/or target VIN per system policy, and validate that Retain Interest and Release Interest are not both selected. This ensures the plateâs chain of custody is clear and prevents contradictory instructions. If required identifiers are missing or options conflict, reject submission and request corrected Section 4 entries.
18
VIN Format Validation (Removed From / Placed On VIN)
Validate VIN fields are exactly 17 characters, alphanumeric, and exclude invalid letters (I, O, Q) per VIN standards. Correct VINs are critical to ensure plates are removed from and/or assigned to the correct vehicle record. If VIN validation fails, block submission and require a corrected 17-character VIN.
19
Retention Fee Indicator Required When Retain for Future Use Selected
If 'Retain for future use (Annual Fee Required)' is checked, require 'Fee enclosed' to be checked (or require a payment record/amount in the payment subsystem if captured separately). The form warns that failure to pay results in cancellation, so the system should prevent retention requests without payment confirmation. If missing, reject submission and instruct the applicant to include the required fee/payment confirmation.
20
Signature, Date Signed, and Daytime Phone Format Validation
Require a signature indicator (captured signature/attestation), a date signed, and a daytime phone number. Validate the date is a real calendar date (and optionally not in the future) and the phone number is 10 digits (area code + local number) with allowable formatting. If any are missing or malformed, reject submission because the perjury statement and contact information are required for processing and follow-up.
Common Mistakes in Completing REG 17
People often check the first box they see or check multiple application types, then complete the wrong sections (e.g., filling Section 3 for a Replacement). This can cause DMV to reject the application or delay processing because required sections/fees donât match the request. Avoid this by choosing exactly one application type and following the âComplete 1, 2, 3, 6â style instructions at the top. AI-powered tools like Instafill.ai can reduce this error by prompting only the sections that apply based on your selected application type.
A common misunderstanding is assuming you can order special interest plates for a vehicle that is out of state, not currently registered, or on Planned Non-Operation (PNO). DMV can deny or hold the request until the vehicle is actively registered in California, which wastes time and fees. Confirm the vehicleâs registration status before submitting and ensure it is not on PNO. Instafill.ai can help by flagging eligibility requirements and reminding you to verify registration status before submission.
Applicants frequently use nicknames, omit a legal last name suffix, or enter an address that differs from what DMV has on file (or mix street address and P.O. Box incorrectly). Mismatches can lead to mailing issues, identity verification problems, or delays in assigning ownership of the plates. Use the plate ownerâs true full legal name and a complete mailing address (street or P.O. Box), with correct city/state/ZIP. Instafill.ai can standardize address formatting and reduce typos by validating common address patterns.
People often fill in the gift recipient name but forget that the plate owner/purchaser section still must be completed correctly, or they leave the recipientâs name partially blank. This creates confusion about who owns the plates (plates belong to the plate owner, not the vehicle), which can complicate reassignment later. Only complete the Gift Statement if the plates are truly a gift, and provide the recipientâs full name exactly as intended. Instafill.ai can help ensure conditional sections like the Gift Statement are completed only when applicable.
Section 2 requires one selection in each subsection (personalized vs non-personalized, vehicle type, pickup location, and plate type), but applicants commonly skip one or select multiple options. Missing or conflicting selections can cause DMV to return the form for clarification. Carefully choose exactly one option per subsection and write the pickup location (DMV office or Auto Club branch) when required. Instafill.ai can enforce âone-of-manyâ rules and prevent contradictory selections.
The form specifically instructs applicants to check the Motorcycle box and circle âMotorcycle,â and motorcycle plates have different character limits and display rules. People often forget to circle it or request too many characters, leading to rejection or a forced change. Follow the motorcycle-specific instructions and keep the configuration within the motorcycle limit (two to five characters). Instafill.ai can apply the correct character limits automatically once âMotorcycleâ is selected.
Applicants frequently request too many characters, all-numeric strings that exceed the allowed digit count, or the wrong format for special cases like Ex-POW (must be four numbers only). DMV may reject the configuration, forcing you to use a backup choice or resubmit. Double-check the rules: ELP/Coastal/Lake Tahoe/PUC Livery/Yosemite allow 2â7 characters; most others 2â6; all numbers 2â5 digits; Ex-POW is exactly four numbers. Instafill.ai can validate character counts and plate-type-specific rules before you submit.
Spacing is a major source of errors: people insert actual blank spaces instead of using â*â for a full space and â/â for a half space, or they forget that centering is controlled by how the boxes are filled (and the âIf you DO NOT want the plate centeredâ checkbox). This can result in a plate layout you didnât intend, and DMV will not honor changes after reservation. Use only the required symbols (* and /) in the boxes and explicitly check the âdo not want centeredâ box if applicable. Instafill.ai can format the configuration into the correct box-by-box representation and reduce spacing mistakes.
Many applicants assume the meaning is obvious and leave the Meaning fields blank, but the form states the application will not be accepted without an explanation for each choice. Missing meanings cause immediate rejection or a request for resubmission. Provide a short, clear explanation for the first (and any additional) choices, even if it seems self-explanatory. Instafill.ai can prompt for these required explanations and prevent submission when theyâre missing.
Applicants often check a restricted plate type but forget to attach proof (e.g., firefighter ID/eligibility, Ex-POW documentation, PUC permit/authorization letter) or omit the Veterans organizational code. Without documentation, DMV cannot approve the plate type and will delay or deny the request. Review the plate-type notes and include copies of all required documents and codes with the application. Instafill.ai can add a checklist based on the selected plate type and remind you to attach the correct supporting documents.
For reassignment/retention, people commonly enter a partial VIN, mix up âremoved fromâ vs âplaced on,â or check âretain for future useâ but forget to include the annual retention fee (which can lead to cancellation). These errors can prevent the plates from being properly moved or retained and may cause loss of the personalized plate reservation. Enter the full VIN(s), the current license plate number where requested, and include the correct fee if retaining. Instafill.ai can validate VIN length/format and ensure fee-related checkboxes align with the selected action.
A frequent mistake is requesting replacement of both personalized plates as lost/stolen while expecting the same configuration to be reissued, even though the form states it cannot be reissued in that scenario. This leads to rejection or forces a new selection in Sections 2 and 3, delaying issuance. If both personalized plates were lost or stolen, be prepared to choose a new configuration and complete the personalization sections accordingly. Instafill.ai can flag this rule when âTwo Platesâ + âLost/Stolenâ is selected for personalized plates.
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