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.

California 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.

Vehicle decals (and passes) may be obtained at the Depot's Pass & ID office, Bldg. 680, located near the Washington Street Gate 5 entrance. Requirements for issuance of a decal include; presentation of driver's license, official identification, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance sufficient to meet State of California requirements. Depot’s Pass & ID Office numbers 619-524-8740/8741

Special Notes Regarding Traffic and Access to Base

On Family Visitation/Graduation days all public/visitor vehicles MUST enter through Gate #5 (Washington Street). Vehicle inspections and ID checks will take place. Drivers must show their driver's license, registration and proof of insurance. Changes in security levels may alter access and event schedules. All packages, handbags and luggage are subject to search prior to being admitted to the Depot. Visitors are advised to keep those items to a minimum. To avoid complications, do try to leave luggage and other bags at your hotel.

There are three gates to access the installation. The Main Gate (Gate 5) on Washington Street operates 24-hours a day seven-days a week. Gate 2 on Barnett Avenue is opened for outbound and pedestrian only traffic from 0600-2200 weekdays and weekends except holidays. Gate 4 on Witherby Street is opened from 0600-1800 weekdays, closed on weekends.

MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT ON THE DEPOT IS 20 MPH - Unless otherwise posted. Mobility equipment such as strollers and wheelchairs are available to rent located at Building 10 inside the Welcome Center. Equipment quantities are limited, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Items such as knives, guns, etc. will be confiscated and NOT returned. Shuttles from hotels and motels MUST use Gate #5 ONLY. Shuttles will be inspected each time they enter the Depot. Be prepared to show a photo ID when entering the Depot. Keep your ID with you at all times. Occupants of vehicles attempting to enter MCRD must be restrained by his/her own seatbelt. Children under 6 yrs of age or 60 lbs must be seated in appropriate car-seats/boosters. Due to possible long vehicle lines at Gate #5, it is recommended that you arrive early each day.

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 children under the age of 8 must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat. Children under the age of 8 who are 4' 9" or taller may be secured by a seatbelt 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.