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

Mississippi 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 https://www.dps.state.ms.us/ 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 3 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.

Registering Vehicles on Base

Base decals are no longer required on your vehicle upon entering Keesler AFB. Insurance is required to be maintained on all vehicles.

Motorcycles

Military members who operate a motorcycle or moped on Keesler must complete a motorcycle safety course given by the 81 TRW Safety office and must obtain a completion card.

Drivers must possess the motorcycle driver's license or motorcycle endorsement on their vehicle driver's license and the safety completion card. To ride a motorcycle on or off Keesler AFB you must also have insurance and wear the required safety equipment. Contact your unit motorcycle representative for more information

Base Regulations

Child Restraints -- Child restraints are required in Mississippi and on Keesler for children weighing less than 40lbs. Local police, as well as base security personnel strictly enforce this law.

Automobile Insurance -- You are strongly encouraged to purchase uninsured and under-insured motorist coverage. State law does require drivers to be financially responsible and to carry at least liability insurance with limits of $10,000 (personal injury per person) to $20,000 (personal injury per person) and $5,000 (property damage per accident).

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 MS Public Safety/State Laws page.