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.

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

To operate a vehicle on base the requirements are:

• Proof of state registration
• Driver's license
• Proof of insurance
• I.D. card

For more information contact the Pass and ID office: 601-679-2509/2366

A service member while stationed in Mississippi may use the home state tags of your residence or you may purchase Mississippi license plates. Automobile tags are issued yearly.

To register a vehicle in MS that has been previously registered in the owner's name in another state, you will need: title or name and address of lien holder, current registration, and odometer reading. 

For more information, call the Pass and ID office: 601-679-2509 or 601-679-2366

Mississippi state traffic laws apply at NAS Meridian.

Seat Belts -- Seat belts are mandatory on and off base. Child seats/restraints are mandatory for children age 4 and younger.

Cell Phones -- Cellular phone usage while driving onboard NAS Meridian is prohibited unless using a "hands free" device.

Vehicle Checks -- All vehicles entering or leaving NAS Meridian are subject to search.

Accidents -- Vehicle accidents should be reported to the Security Department at 601-679-2361 or DSN 312-637-2361.

Criminal Offenses -- Criminal offenses should be reported to the Security Department at 601-679-2361 or DSN 312-637-2361.

Driver's licenses are issued through the Department of Public Safety. For more information, visit their website: https://www.driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov/.

• Meridian Office Contact Number 601-987-1224
• Address: 910 Hwy 11 & 80 East

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.

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.