Registration
VEHICLE REGISTRATION (ON-BASE)
2740 Eaker Dr
Ellsworth AFB, SD 57706
Phone 605-385-2894 / 605-385-2895
Phone (DSN) 312-675-2894
Fax 605-385-2893
Fax (DSN) 312-675-2893
Mon-Fri 6:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sat & Sun 6:00 am - 2:00 pm
Registration & Licensing Requirements
South Dakota 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 4 years of age and/or 40 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.
Base Regulations
Traffic
South Dakota traffic laws apply on Ellsworth AFB. South Dakota does have a seat belt law and seat belts are mandatory for all both on and off base. Child seats/safety restraints are mandatory for all children under 3 years of age and must be properly secured. Children ages 3-10 must be properly secured in a car set or buckled in a safety belt.
Motorcycles
Motorcyclists are required to wear helmets and eye protection while on and off base. Safety vests or a bright or contrasting outfit must be worn during the day and a safety vest is mandatory when riding at night.
ID Card
Anyone needing a new ID card must report to the Military Personnel Flight, Customer Service Unit at the Rushmore Center (Ellsworth Street).
Registering Vehicles on Base
Personnel can register their vehicles through the Visitor Control Center at the Liberty Gate (main gate). Please have your ID card, car registration, driver's license and proof of insurance.
South Dakota Vehicle Registration
Military members may register their automobiles in South Dakota as residents or register them in their home state. Legal residents of South Dakota pay a license fee based on weight and year of vehicle. To transfer registration from your home state to South Dakota, you need title, registration, mileage, and if applicable, a tax receipt from which the state the vehicle was licensed. There is a $3 title transfer fee.
Homes Near Base
