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 should understand their state’s laws on registration and licensing before moving to a new state. Visit the Motor Vehicle Services website for links to state-specific websites.

Washington State law requires you to have sufficient liability insurance and a valid driver’s license 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 Washington State Department of Licensing website.

Members of the military stationed in Washington State can continue to operate their vehicles with current registrations until they expire. Once a registration expires, the vehicle must be registered in Washington State or in the service member's official home-of-record state.

If your vehicle is licensed in a foreign country, you must register your vehicle in Washington State or your home-of-record state within 30 days of returning to the United States.

For more information about registering your vehicle in Washington State, please visit the Washington State Department of Licensing.

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

• Seat belt use
• Child safety seats
• Motorcycle operation
• The use of cell phones and other digital devices while driving

Learn more about motor vehicle laws in your state at the Distraction.gov webpage.

You and your passengers must always wear seat belts while driving. You will be ticketed and issued heavy fines if seat belts are not secured. According to Washington State law, children under 8 years old or 4'9" tall must be secured in a restraint system that complies with United States Department of Transportation standards. Children up to age 13 must ride in the back seat when it is practical to do so. Please see the Washington Child Passenger Safety Program for more information.

Motorcycles and their operators are subject to special laws. If you own and operate a motorcycle, you must comply with those laws. Visit the Washington 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 Washington State Department of Motor Vehicles website. Tickets and fines will be issued for violating these laws. Play it safe and always use a “hands-free” device if you must use a cell phone or other mobile device while driving. Hands-free devices must be used while operating a motor vehicle on all military installations worldwide.