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.

Washington Navy Yard Visitors Center:
1022 O St SE
Washington, DC 20003
United States

Registration & Licensing Requirements

District of Columbia 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.

State Laws

You and your passengers must always wear seatbelts while driving so, you will be ticketed and issued heavy fines if seatbelts are not secured. Check state law requirements to ensure that children are properly restrained in accordance with state law.

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.

Registering Vehicles on Base

You must have a current base pass to come aboard any of Naval District Washington's (NDW) installations. In order to receive a base decal you must provide:

• driver's license
• registration
• proof of insurance
• military ID card

The Pass and ID office is located on the Washington Navy Yard (WNY).

Washington Navy Yard Visitors Center:
1022 O St SE
Washington, DC 20003
United States
 

For parking permits for the WNY, you must be assigned to the yard.

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.