Motor Vehicles

State laws vary for motor vehicle insurance requirements, licensing and registration.

Service members and their families will want to understand state laws before moving to a new state. 

South Carolina requires you 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. Although, 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.

Visit the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) here: www.scdmvonline.com

For information on how to obtain access to MCAS Beaufort, contact the installation Pass and ID office at 843-228-7750 or 843-228-6698.

You must present a current and valid state registration, driver's license and proof of insurance required under South Carolina law to register your vehicle on base. Active-duty service members must register vehicle(s) within 30 days. Visit the Pass and ID office to complete registration. Pass and ID is the first building on your right as you approach the front gate. 

Contact Information

Building 2077 
Geiger Boulevard
MCAS Beaufort 

Telephone: 843-228-7750 or 843-228-6698. 

You must present a current and valid state registration, driver's license and proof of insurance to register your vehicle on base. Active-duty service members must register vehicle(s) within 30 days. Visit the Pass and ID office to complete registration. Pass and ID is the first building on your right as you approach the front gate. 

Vehicle Checks

Privately owned vehicles traveling aboard MCAS Beaufort are subject to spot checks by military police for current state and base registration and safety inspections.

Motorcycles

All active-duty military must take and pass a motorcycle safety course. Contact the Ground Safety Department at 843-228-6938.

Contact Information

Pass and ID
Building 2077 
Geiger Boulevard
MCAS Beaufort 

Telephone: 843-228-7750 or 843-228-6698. 

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
• Cellphone and digital device usage while driving 

State law requires that all children under 5 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. 

Many States and local jurisdictions have strict laws regarding cell phone and other digital devices while driving. Visit the State Department of Motor Vehicles website. Play it safe and always use a “hands free” device if you must use a cell phone or other Protective Driving Assist (PDA) while driving. 

For more information visit the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.