Registration
Armed Forces Community Service (AFCS) – Community Information Services – Lewis Main
2140 Liggett Avenue
Bldg 2140 Room 400
Box 339500 MS 20
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433-9500
Phone 253-967-7166
Phone (DSN) 312-357-7166
Fax 253-967-3311
Fax (DSN) 312-357-3311
Mon - Fri 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Registration & Licensing Requirements
Washington 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 45 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.
Registering Vehicles on Base
There is no need to register your vehicle at McChord Field, no DoD stickers are required either. If you plan to visit Ft Lewis Post & Madigan Army Medical Center (approximately 6 miles from McChord) registration and sticker are still required. If you need to register and need stickers, you must bring the following documentation to Ft Lewis Post or any other military installation:
- Military ID
- valid driver's license
- proof of insurance
- vehicle registration
- proof of emissions testing
Homes Near Base
