MCAS Beaufort  Transportation

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.

South Carolina 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 contacting the local Department of Motor Vehicle Office at 843-379-8822.

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

In order to register your vehicle on base, you must present a current and valid state registration, a driver's license and proof of insurance required under South Carolina Law. You must go to Pass and ID (843-228-7750 or 843-228-6698) to register your vehicle. Pass and ID is the first building on your right as you approach the front gate. Provost Marshall Office (PMO) - 843-228-6710

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

In addition to all vehicle registration requirements, motorcycle operators under 25 years of age must pass a motorcycle safety course. For more information on the motorcycle safety course please call the air station's Ground Safety Department (843-228-7858, 843-228-7804, 843-228-6938, 843-228-7808)

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.

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 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.