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.

Texas 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 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 5 years of age and 36" in height 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.

Military members and Interns/Fellows are not required to register their vehicles and obtain driver's license when assigned to Red River Army Depot. They are allowed to maintain these within their permanent residence state. All others are required to obtain driver's license and register their vehicle in Texas or Arkansas, depending on the area in which you choose to live.

Registering Vehicles on Post

Visitors must stop at Building 455A and obtain a pass or badge to enter the depot. Employees are required to register their vehicle if they will be driving it on depot. To register a vehicle, you must present proof of insurance, valid driver's license and current year (valid) car registration. The vehicle cannot have farm tags.

The Visitor Control Center (badge office) is located in Building 455A, phone (903) 334-2716/2608 or DSN 829-2716/2608. The hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Monday thru Thursday. Closed Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  COVID 19 Pandemic could impact operational hours.

Vehicle Checks -- Red River Army Depot is a partially closed post. Vehicles are subject to inspection at any time.

Restricted Areas -- Only people with proper security clearance and approval are allowed to enter these areas.

Photography -- All cameras on depot have to be approved and a camera pass issued. No photos of buildings or building numbers are allowed.

Seat Belts -- State law requires seat belts and child restraints at all times.

Insurance --State law requires that you maintain minimum vehicle insurance.

Cell Phones: No cell phone can be used while vehicles are moving.

Security at 903-334-4421 has additional information.