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.

Vehicle registrations are done through the County Tax Collectors Office.  There are four locations in Santa Rosa County and four in Escambia County.  To find your closest location visit FLHSMV Locations (flhsmv.gov).

Some registration fees are waivable for active duty personnel, so ensure you have a copy of your PCS orders.

Cell Phone Use -- Strickly prohibited while operating a motor vehicle aboard NAS Whiting Field.

Traffic -- Speed limit on base is 25 mph unless otherwise posted.

Vehicle Checks -- Unannounced vehicle checks are routinely conducted by security. Vehicle inspections on newly purchased vehicles are conducted upon request.

Accidents -- Base Security has jurisdiction on base. In Base Housing, state and local law authorities also may enter if the situation is warranted and requested. Automobile Insurance is mandatory.

Criminal Offenses --The crime rate in the Milton area is extremely low, consisting of mostly petty offenses.

Crime Stoppers -- Crime Stoppers Hotline - 850-437-7867.

Restricted Areas -- The perimeter road around the air station is for government vehicle use only. Other than that, there are no restricted areas.

Photography --There are no restrictions for taking photos on base, however, discretion is advised.

Weapons -- Occupants of Family Housing are required to register personal weapons with the Security Office. Bldg. (3026)

Pass and ID Office

The Pass and ID office is located in Bldg 48A NAS Whiting Field and can be reached at 850-623-7205. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Visitors Passes can be obtained at the gates any time. Appointments for new ID and CAC cards can be made by visiting ID Card Office Online (idco.dmdc.osd.mil). 

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.

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.

Location: Building 48A, turn right just outside the West Gate entrance of Whiting Field

Pass & Tag Office Hours

The Pass & Tag Office is open from 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday.

If there are any questions, please call 850-623-7205.