Oregon Veteran Benefits

Oregon offers state-level benefits that complement your federal VA benefits. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you may qualify for and where to apply.

Quick Facts

• Property Tax: Statewide exemption on a portion of a primary residence’s assessed value for eligible disabled veterans or surviving spouses/partners; file with your county assessor (see Sources).
• DMV: Veteran designation available on driver licenses/IDs (no extra fee). Disabled Veteran plates qualify for one-time permanent vehicle registration; disabled parking requires a separate placard/symbol.
• Education: Oregon’s Veterans’ Dependent Tuition Waiver provides a state tuition waiver at public institutions for eligible spouses and children of qualifying disabled or deceased service members (see statute).
• Income Tax Notes: VA disability compensation isn’t taxed. Military retired pay is generally taxable; Oregon allows a subtraction for federal pension income earned before Oct. 1, 1991 (see DOR guidance).

Property Tax Relief

Oregon’s Disabled Veteran or Surviving Spouse Property Tax Exemption reduces the taxable assessed value of a qualifying, owner-occupied primary residence. For 2025, the standard exemption is approximately $26,300 of assessed value, with a higher tier (about $31,600) for veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 40%+ and receiving compensation. Apply with your county assessor—generally by April 1—and include VA disability documentation. Surviving spouses/partners who have not remarried may also qualify. See the Department of Revenue guide in Sources.

DMV & License Benefits

Add a Veteran indicator to your Oregon driver license/ID by presenting proof of honorable service (e.g., DD-214/DD-215); DMV charges no extra fee for the indicator. Oregon also issues Disabled Veteran plates with a one-time permanent vehicle registration fee; regular plate manufacturing fees may still apply. Note: disabled parking privileges require a separate placard or wheelchair-symbol authorization.

Education Benefits

The Veterans’ Dependent Tuition Waiver authorizes a state tuition waiver at Oregon public universities and community colleges for eligible spouses and children of qualifying disabled or deceased veterans. The waiver is applied by the school and coordinates with other aid; fees and certain charges may not be covered. Check with your campus veterans office for documentation and eligibility details (see ORS in Sources).

Hunting & Fishing

Oregon offers a no-fee resident Disabled Veteran Combination License (hunting/angling/shellfish) for eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities; standard tag and permit rules still apply. Bring proof of Oregon residency and VA disability rating when applying.

Spouse & Dependent Benefits

Surviving spouses/partners may qualify for the property tax exemption on a primary residence (subject to program rules). Eligible spouses and children may use the Veterans’ Dependent Tuition Waiver at public institutions. Other supports (employment, healthcare navigation, burial benefits) are available through ODVA.

Oregon Veterans Agency

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA)

VA Regional Office

Portland Regional Office
100 SW Main Street, Portland, OR 97204

VA Medical Centers & Key Clinics

• Portland VA Medical Center, Portland
• Robert D. Maxwell VA Clinic, Bend
• Eugene VA Clinic, Eugene
• Salem VA Clinic, Salem

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Sources

• Oregon DOR — Disabled Veteran/Surviving Spouse Property Tax Exemption (2025)
• ODVA — Military & Veteran License Plates (permanent disabled veteran registration)
• ODVA — Veteran Indicator on Driver License/ID
• ORS 350.285 — Veterans’ Dependent Tuition Waiver (statute)
• Oregon DOR — Personal Income Tax (federal pension subtraction before 10/1/1991)

Last verified: August 26, 2025