Motor Vehicles

State laws vary when it comes to motor vehicle insurance requirements, licensing and registration. The term vehicle generally includes automobiles, motorcycles, vans, trailers and boats regularly parked or garaged overnight. Service members and their families will want to understand their state’s laws on registration and licensing before moving to a new state. Visit the USA.gov Motor Vehicle Services page for links to state-specific websites, for Arizona visit https://azdot.gov/mvd.

Registration & Licensing Requirements

Arizona State law requires you to have sufficient liability insurance and a valid driver’s license in order to operate a vehicle. The term “vehicle” generally includes automobiles, motorcycles, vans, trailers and boats regularly parked or garaged overnight. Further, your vehicle must be properly registered. Even though you are in the military, you may be required to register your vehicle in-state and obtain an in-state license within a few months of moving. Access complete information on insurance, driver’s licensing, and where and how to register your vehicle by visiting the State Department of Motor Vehicles website.

State Laws

You and your passengers must always wear seatbelts while driving. You will be ticketed and issued heavy fines if seatbelts are not secured. State law requires that all children under 5 years of age and 40 pounds be properly restrained in child seats. Some states also require younger, smaller children to sit in the back seat.

Motorcycles and their operators are subject to special laws. If you own and operate a motorcycle, you must comply with those laws. Visit the State Department of Motor Vehicles website for more information.

Many States and local jurisdictions have strict laws about the use of cell phones and other digital devices while driving. Research these laws on the State Department of Motor Vehicles website. Tickets will be issued and fines assessed for violating these laws. Play it safe and always use a “hands free” device if you must use a cell phone or other PDA while driving. Hands-free devices must be used while operating a motor vehicle on ALL military installations worldwide.

Installation Vehicle Regulations

Automobile Insurance – Active duty and retired military, their family members, DOD civilian employees, contractor personnel, and other affiliated persons who operate a POV on Fort Huachuca are responsible for carrying and producing proof of current motor vehicle insurance for the entire period in which the vehicle is to be operated on Fort Huachuca. Motor vehicle liability insurance is required.

Child Restraints – Child seats/restraints are mandatory for children four years old and younger or under 40 pounds both on and off the installation.

Seat Belts – Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle both on Fort Huachuca and in the state of Arizona.

Motorcycles

Motorcyclists and moped operators are required to complete an Army-approved motorcycle safety course prior to riding on Army installations. Motorcyclists without a motorcycle Safety Course Car are subject to ticketing and/or being refused entry to post. Motorcyclists and moped operators are required to wear helmets, eye protections, gloves, long pants, long sleeves, over-the-ankle shoes and reflective vests or clothing.

Registering Vehicles on Base

A temporary visitor's pass may be obtained at the Welcome Center as you enter the Main Gate. You may park in the parking area to the right prior to entering through the gate security area. The following documents are required: picture ID (driver's license), vehicle registration, proof of insurance, assignment or TDY orders (military or civilian workers only--not required for visitors).

Vehicle registration is required on Fort Huachuca. Registration is conducted at the Welcome Center as you enter the Van Deman Gate. Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 3:45 p.m. Required documents are vehicle registration, proof of insurance, ID card and driver's license. For more information call 520-533-6979.

Registering Vehicles in Arizona

The Sierra Vista Regional Service Center for the Motor Vehicle Division of Arizona Department of Transportation is located at 5224 E. Charleston Road in Sierra Vista. The center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and closed on weekends and all legal holidays.

Arizona Driver's License

Drivers who establish residency in the state are required to hold an Arizona driver's license. Military family members who accept employment in the state, register their children in state schools, etc., must also obtain an Arizona driver's license.

Costs – The cost for a driver's license for automobiles is based on age and is as follows:

• 16-39 --$25
• 40-44 --$20
• 45-49 --$15
• 50 and over --$10
• Limited license: (military or students) $10

Those who surrender a valid out-of-state license need only take an eye examination. Those with an expired license of more than 12 months must take a Class B Driver's Test and a written examination.

The minimum age to apply for a learner's permit is 15 years and six months. Those applying for a driver's license must be at least 16 years old. Minors must have proof of birth and parental signatures.

Nonresident Exemptions

Active-duty military personnel stationed in Arizona who are not Arizona residents are not required to pay the Vehicle License Tax (VLT) portion of the annual vehicle registration.

State and local laws regulate the operation of motor vehicles, and these laws can vary by location. Many states regulate the following:

• Seatbelt use
• Child safety seats
• Motorcycle operation
• The use of cellphones and other digital devices while driving

Learn more about motor vehicle laws in your state at the Distraction.gov State Laws page.