Motor Vehicles

All vehicles operating on base must have proof of insurance and registration from their state of residence. Anyone driving on base must have a current Driver's License. California DMV laws may vary from other states regarding motor vehicle insurance requirements, licensing and registration. Visit the California Department of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements. The website includes the current driver handbook, has appointment scheduling capabilities, and allows online payments for registrations. 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.

DMV - Barstow office is located at 528 E. Virginia Way, Barstow, CA 92311.

Registration & Licensing Requirements

California State law requires you to have sufficient liability insurance and a valid driver’s license in order to operate a vehicle.  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.

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 6 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, including helmet requirements.  Safety vests must be worn at all times will riding a motorcycle on the installation.  Riders must complete a basic riding course before riding.  The Department of Defense requires personal protective equipment as well. Riders must wear a helmet that is certified by the Department of Transportation, eye protection, long sleeves, long pants, ankle-high boots with a low heel, and full-fingered gloves.  Motorcycle Safety Courses are available through Base Safety, and course cards are required to register your motorcycle for use on the installation.  Call for course registration  760-577-6266 / 6001.

MCLB Barstow has strict regulations regarding the use of cell phones and other digital devices while driving. Tickets will be issued and fines assessed for violation of distracted driver 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

Documents required to register a vehicle aboard base are:

• Valid Drivers License
• Proof of valid State Registration
• Proof of valid Insurance
• Valid ID/CAC base access card
• If registering a motorcycle needs Motorcycle Safety Course Card

If the driver is not on the registration he/she will need a notarized letter from the registered owner, giving permission to drive that vehicle.  The letter must state that they are granting permission to operate the vehicle, the make/model, vin number, place number and color.  

New Vehicles

If you don't have the permanent registration from the DMV a 90 day temporary pass will be issued.  Once you receive the registration, bring documentation to Pass & ID.   For more information about registering vehicles on base, contact Pass & ID, bldg. 101, 760- 577-6371/6969, DSN 312-282-6371/6969.

California Driver's License

Active duty military are exempt from having a California Driver's License, but you must have a valid driver's license from another state in order to operate a vehicle. Dependents must get a California license if they are working in California. If the vehicle is registered in the dependant's name only, then the vehicle must be registered in California within 20 days of arrival in the state to avoid penalties.

State and local laws regulate the operation of motor vehicles, and these laws can vary by location. California regulates 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 California.  Multiple languages available.