CA AB498

Creates optional environmental design license plate for former American prisoners of war (POWs) who prefer not to display "POW" or "Ex-Prisoner of War" identification on their vehicles

Requires Department of Motor Vehicles to design the alternative plate in consultation with Department of Veterans Affairs and veterans' service organizations

Allows eligible former POWs to choose between the existing POW-designated plate or the new environmental design plate while retaining vehicle registration fee exemptions

Specifies design criteria for alternative plate including a space up to 2 inches by 3 inches for distinctive design without words or symbols identifying POW status

Permits surviving spouses to retain special license plates and fee exemptions after a former POW's death, with provisions for family members to retain plates as heirlooms