MEDIA RELEASE

New Veterans Designation Available for Driver’s License
MVC Showcases New Veterans Licenses at Korean War Memorial Event

(ATLANTIC CITY) – As representatives from the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Korean War Veterans of America and other veterans groups gathered to mark the 63rd anniversary of the armistice ending the Korean War, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Chairman and Chief Administrator Raymond P. Martinez was on hand to announce the availability of a new permanent veterans designation for driver’s licenses and non-driver IDs.

“With this convenient single point of identification, veterans will now have easier access to services and discounts at businesses around the State,” said Martinez.  “This distinguished designation recognizes and honors the service and sacrifices our veterans have made, the Motor Vehicle Commission is committed to recognizing our veterans and making life easier for them where we can.”    

Martinez added that eligible veterans will be able to obtain a new license or non-driver ID free of charge at any MVC agency or by mail.    

"Throughout our history, men and women of the United States Armed Forces have served with distinction," said Brig. Gen. Michael L. Cunniff, The Adjutant General for the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.  “The designation on driver’s licenses will ensure every New Jersey veteran receives the consideration they deserve for their honorable and faithful service to our State and nation."

Local veterans groups celebrated the announcement.  “It has been a long time coming, and finally veterans in New Jersey now have an official document - a New Jersey driver's license - that tells all who view it that they are a veteran,” said Roger Gengaro, Department Commander of the American Legion, Department of New Jersey.  “Many businesses and restaurants offer discounts, or even free meals to veterans on holidays such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Armed Forces Day to show their appreciation to our veterans.  Now it will be much easier for our veterans to take advantage of these discounts.”

Veterans interested in obtaining a new license or non-driver ID with the designation will need to provide an original or a photocopy of their honorable military discharge or General Discharge under Honorable Conditions documents in order to show satisfactory proof of veteran status, in addition to producing 6 points of identification.  For more information on how to obtain a license or non-driver ID, veterans are invited to visit www.njmvc.gov.