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.

Registration & Licensing Requirements

New Jersey 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.

State Laws

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 7 years of age and 80 pounds 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.

School bus drivers can use cell phones only during emergencies.

Any drivers younger than 21 who hold a graduated license permit or a provisional license are prohibited from using a hands-free cell phone. Text messaging while driving became illegal on March 1, 2008.

Registering Vehicles on Base

It is not mandatory for personnel living or working at Picatinny Arsenal to register their vehicle(s).

Base Regulations

Vehicles may make right turns on red unless specifically posted as "No Turn on Red." Turns are permitted from right lane only on "jug handles."

Speed limits are strictly enforced by radar.

Child Restraints -- New Jersey's child passenger safety law requires that children up to 8 years old or 80 pounds must ride in a safety or booster seat in the rear seat of the vehicle. If there is no rear seat, the child must sit in the front seat secured by a safety or booster seat. Children under 8 who weight more than 80 pounds must wear a seat belt anywhere in the vehicle. Passengers ages 8 to18 (regardless or weight) must wear a seat belt anywhere inside the vehicle.

All traffic laws are strictly enforced on base. New Jersey traffic laws apply on Picatinny. Seat belts are mandatory. Car seats for children are also mandatory. All vehicles entering or exiting Picatinny are subject to search. All accidents should be reported to Police by calling 973-724-6666.

Picatinny is under a 100% picture ID check. You must have a picture ID to enter the installation. You will be subject to a 100% vehicle check. If you are visiting an office/person, you must report to Visitor Control, Bldg 1136, with the appropriate paperwork and picture ID. If you have any questions about security procedures please contact the Picatinny Police Department at 973-724-6666.

There are restricted areas and buildings on base that require an appropriate ID. The "Enclosure Area" requires that all vehicles stop at the guard station for an ID check and vehicle inspection upon entering and exiting.

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.