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.

Rock Island Arsenal is located in a bi-state region, with people choosing to live in either Illinois or Iowa. You will need to update your driver's license according to the rules of the state in which you choose to live, or if on Active Duty, your state of residence.  

Iowa and Illinois State law require 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. If you claim residency in Iowa or Illinois, you will 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 Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles website or the Iowa Motor Vehicle Division homepage.

Registering vehicles on the installation is not required. The display of the DoD decal is no longer mandatory.

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 8 years of age or under 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.

Rock Island Arsenal abides by Illinois state laws.  For more information on child seat safety checks contact Army Community Service Family Advocacy Program, 309-782-3049

Speed Limits -- Unless otherwise posted, the installation speed limit is 25 m.p.h. or 10 m.p.h. when passing troops in formation.

Parking Lights -- At night, when approaching any guard post entrance to the Arsenal, headlights should be in the low beam position. Use parking lights only when stopped at the entrance. Upon leaving the gate, revert to low beam headlights.

Seat Belts -- Seat belts are required on the installation, in the State of Iowa and in the State of Illinois.

Weapons Registration --Military personnel residing on post must register all privately-owned firearms (to include pellet and BB guns), with the Security Office, Building 102. Security must be notified of any firearm possession changes.  For information on local firearm laws and regulations contact Army Community Service for more details 309-782-0829.

Pet Registration -- All pets on post must be registered at the Housing Office, Building 102. A record of the pet's last rabies shot is required for registration.

Helmets --Motorcycle and bicycle helmets are required on this installation.

Badges --Badges are required for employees and service members.

Photography -- Photography is prohibited in restricted areas.

Cell Phones -- Cell phones are prohibited while driving on post unless using a hands-free device.

Motorcycles -- Enforcement is outlined in (RIAR 190-5 and AR385-10, para 11-9)   

Headlights –Motorcycles operated on RIA will have headlights on.

PPE –DOT approved helmet, wraparound eye protection, full-finger gloves, long pants, long shirt or jacket, and over the ankle boots.

Tinted eye protection is prohibited during low visibility. 

Use of headphones or earphones is prohibited while riding.

Visibility –during daylight hours brightly colored outer garment is required.

Visibility –during the hours of darkness a reflective upper garment is required.

Training –AD Military motorcycle operators will be checked for Army approved Motorcycle Riders Safety Course Card.

Equipment –ensure that riders seat is permanently attached and if has passenger that passenger has permanent seat and foot pegs.