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.

North 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 visiting the State Department of Motor Vehicles website. 

The Vehicle Registration Office is located in Building AS-187, on the right, just before the Air Station Front Gate. 

Motor Vehicle Registration Requirements (original documents required)

DoD Personnel 

• Active Duty/Retired Military or Civilian DoD ID card
• Full Drivers License
• Original Vehicle Registration
• Proof of insurance (must meet NC minimum of 30/60/25)
• Driver's Improvement Course card (Military under 26 years of age)
• Reservists must present a command authorized letter.
• Refer to Base Order 5560.2N for more detailed information.

Motorcycle Registration In addition to the above:

• M/C endorsement on Drivers License
• Base approved safety course
• Motorcycles must be physically present at Bldg. AS187

Temporary Passes 

• Active Duty/Retired Military or Civilian DoD ID Card
• Drivers License
• Vehicle Registration
• Proof of Insurance (must meet NC minimum of 30/60/25)

Motorcycle operators -- In addition to the requirements listed above, you must have in your possession an endorsed motorcycle license from North Carolina or your home state, and have proof of attending a motorcycle safety course, regardless of age.

For additional information please visit the Vehicle Registration website at https://www.newriver.marines.mil/Welcome-Aboard/Vehicle-Registration/.

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
• Move over for flashing lights
• Motorcycle operation
• The use of cellphones and other digital devices while driving

Learn more about motor vehicle laws in your state at the https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving 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 7 years of age and 80 pounds 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.