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.

Florida 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.

Each motor vehicle which you plan to operate aboard NAS Key West must be registered. Hours for the Pass and ID Visitor Information Center located at the Boca Chica Main Gate are 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday - Friday, closed weekends and all Federal Holidays.

Documents required for base registration:

• State (any) vehicle registration or title
• Driver's license
• Proof of insurance
• Government ID card

Motorcycles and mopeds are authorized aboard NAS Key West following completion of motorcycle safety course and receiving a completion card for endorsement. Proper attire is required to operate a motorcycle or scoter on base. All riders are  required to wear a helmet, gloves, boots, long sleeve shirt and/or jacket and long pants.

Motorcycle registration requires the above documents, plus a motorcycle endorsement on the driver's license and proof of completion of an approved motorcycle safety course.

Florida state laws apply to NAS Key West. The installation requires that children under 4 years or less than 36 inches tall must be secured in a safety seat. Florida law requires all individuals either driving or as a passenger wear a seat belt. On base, all vehicle occupants must wear safety belts.

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 3 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.  Person's being assigned to NASKW must complete the motor cycle safety course. This is give through the safety office. You can sign up for at Pass and I.D office A 641 during regular business hours Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Use of Cell Phone's while operating a motor vehicle while onboard NASKW is prohibited. This includes the use of hand free devices.

Cell phone use while operating a motor vehicle is strictly unauthorized.  No cell phones, to include ear piece headsets, are allowed to be used while operating a motor vehicle while onboard Naval Station Key West.

All permanent residents with personal weapons are required to register them on Naval Station Key West.  To register personal weapon (such as a firearm), bring all the weapon information to the Pass and ID building, located at the main gate, Boca Chica.  Please do not bring any weapons to the Naval Station activity for registration.