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. 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 Registration

Privately owned vehicles (POVs) are no longer required to be registered with Sheppard AFB. For any questions related to vehicle access, contact the Visitors Center at 940-676-7441 or DSN 312-736-7441.

Motorcycle Information:
All motorcycle riders accessing Sheppard AFB, regardless of status, must comply with the Air Force PPE requirements outlined in AFI 91-207, which covers safety gear such as helmets, eye protection, gloves, and reflective vests.

Military members are required to in-process with their squadron’s Motorcycle Safety Representative (MSR) to ensure they are registered in the Motorcycle Unit Safety Tracking Tool (MUSTT) system.

For military members who require Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) training, please contact the 82 TRW Safety Office at 940-676-2008 or DSN 312-736-2008 for more information and to schedule training.

Texas State Traffic Laws:
Texas state traffic laws apply on Sheppard AFB unless overridden by Federal or Military law.

Seat Belts:
All vehicle occupants must wear seat belts, regardless of vehicle age. Texas law requires children to be in an approved child safety seat or booster seat until they are 8 years old or 4'9" tall. It’s an offense for a driver to transport a child under 8 who isn’t properly secured.

Vehicle Checks:
All vehicles entering or leaving Sheppard AFB are subject to search.

State and local laws regulate motor vehicle operation and can vary by location. Key regulations include:

Seatbelt Use:
All vehicle occupants must wear seatbelts. You will be ticketed and fined if seatbelts are not properly secured. Texas law requires children under 8 years of age and 4'9" height to be properly restrained in child safety seats. Some states may also require smaller children to sit in the back seat.

Child Safety Seats:
Texas law requires children under 8 years old and 4'9" tall to be secured in a child safety seat. Be sure to follow specific state guidelines based on your child's age and size.

Motorcycle Operation:
Motorcycles and operators are subject to special laws in Texas. Ensure compliance with these laws by visiting the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website.

Cellphones & Digital Devices:
Texas has strict laws about using cell phones and other digital devices while driving. Violating these laws can result in tickets and fines. To stay safe, always use a hands-free device if you must use a phone or PDA while driving. Hands-free devices are required on all military installations worldwide.

For more information on Texas motor vehicle laws, visit the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and the Distraction.gov State Laws page.