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.

Registration & Licensing Requirements

District of Columbia 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 8 years of age 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.

Base Regulations

Base decals are not required to enter Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling. You must obtain a valid military ID card or visitors pass to enter the installation. If you do not have a valid identification ID card you must obtained one from the visitor center located near the South Gate. Most bases in the area require the base decal for entry.

Right turn on red is allowed unless otherwise posted.

Helmets -- Helmets are required for motorcyclists and their passengers, as well as for bicyclists.

Accidents -- Report all on-base accidents to Security Forces Control Center. Report off-base POV accidents to local jurisdictions where accident has taken place.

Seat Belts/Car Seat -- The driver and all passengers must use seat belts. Passengers under the age of 8 must be properly seated and secured in an infant, toddler or booster seat. Drivers are responsible for seat belt compliance for all passengers.

Lockouts -- Assistance is available 24 hours a day through the Security Services Control Center when you are accidentally locked out of your vehicle. Since Security Services personnel are not locksmiths however, you may be asked to sign a liability waiver for damages prior to any attempts to unlock your vehicle. It is recommended that you enlist the services of a professional locksmith, like those available through many of the automobile clubs.

Criminal Offenses -- All violators are processed through JBAB Security Services Office. Civilian personnel will be turned over to civil authorities.

Crime Stop -- To report a violation, call Crime Stop at 202-433-3333.

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.