Changing Drivers license, car plates/ registration/ insurance in each PCS/ TDY move, or not? Thoughts?

Wee-doggy (Jed Clampet), lots of information here. In 26 years I had a home of record in Alabama, a driver’s license in Florida, and was stationed in North Carolina. The insurance company had no problem taking my premium payments.

I currently know an Ops O in one of the Marine Divisions who is a home owner in one state and still has a DL and plate in another.

I don’t think it matters where one lives but I’d stick with the no tax state for HOR for obvious reasons.
 
Pick a state with favorable laws and establish your domicle... A very wise YNC gave me that advice when I checked into Pensacola. I got a Florida Drivers license, Flordida plates, and went down to the Escambia County courthouse and signed a document pledging allegiance to the State of Florida. In return, I got to register my car by mail every year for $35 (it costs me >$400 in my current state) and I didn't pay state income tax for 8 years. DIdn't help much when I went back to my old state and asked for in state tuition for law school, but it all worked out well.
 
Some places might make you register your car or get a new driver's license if you're staying there for a while or if you have to pay taxes there.

When I moved to South Carolina, it was tough to figure out how to change my plates and driver's license. Every state has different rules and a lot of paperwork, and it can take a lot of time to get everything you need, especially if you're moving a lot.
 
Some places might make you register your car or get a new driver's license if you're staying there for a while or if you have to pay taxes there.

When I moved to South Carolina, it was tough to figure out how to change my plates and driver's license. Every state has different rules and a lot of paperwork, and it can take a lot of time to get everything you need, especially if you're moving a lot.
NO STATE has the right to make military people who entered the military from another state and are just assigned there to pay that state's income tax. The Home State does have that right but not the military assignment state. Even if you buy real estate in the assigned state and thus pay real estate tax, you do NOT need to pay that state's income tax.
There is ABSOLUTELY no requirement to change your car's registration and drivers license with every military move. You've stated that you're an old grad so I'm curious as to why you're changing registrations and licenses when you get transferred.
 
South Carolina does not require military personnel to change either driver license or vehicle registration.

Temporarily Stationed in South Carolina
If you and your dependents are temporarily stationed in South Carolina, you are not required to get an SC driver's license if this is not your home state. You must have a valid license from your home state if you want to drive in this state.

Vehicle Requirements During Active Duty
If you own a vehicle and you're on active-duty military orders in South Carolina, you must have the Statement of Vehicle Operation in South Carolina (SCDMV Form TI-006) with your valid identification and the following:
  • Military identification card
  • Orders indicating duties in SC OR Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) showing assignment in SC
 
My experience is that military can do whatever they want to do in most states I think. I renewed my Oregon vehicle tag with a Michigan address while I had an Iowa drivers license. I believe I insured the vehicle in state it was “garaged”. Each state can have its own rules, for example in North Carolina, I need an annual vehicle inspection. But they have a form that can be completed by out of state mechanic and submitted. Sometimes it’s easier to change states rather than make a trip back for a new license etc. very situational depending on state. I know some states allow expired licenses for military, but I’m sure it could be a hassle if pulled over.
i was just going to ask this question. we are in NC and my son (ensign) has a car registered here and inspection is due but he is temporarily stationed in SC. can he get the inspection done there so he can renew registration? i called DMV but only get answering machine and no call back
 
Had my FL drivers license, my FL plates, voted in my home district (FL)...all of my career. No issues with insurance or any other entity.

However, my insurance did change based upon where I was based.
Did you go back home to renew plates every year? In Texas they require a state inspection prior to license plate renewal. DLs can be renewed on-line. What address did you use for DL when PCS away from Florida?



If stationed in Texas PCS or TDY

For Our Troops​


TxDMV appreciates your service to our country and are proud to be able to provide special services to military personnel, veterans, and their families.
We have grouped information, forms and links together based on what your needs are, for example, requirements for new residents, the process for transferring your vehicle, determining inspection requirements, applying for military plates, etc.
If you are a Non-resident serving in Texas, you are allowed, but not required, to register your vehicle with your local county tax office.
If you have any questions or would like additional help with your motor vehicle needs, call 1-888-DMV-GOTX or email us at AskDMV@TxDMV.gov.
 
Did you go back home to renew plates every year? In Texas they require a state inspection prior to license plate renewal. DLs can be renewed on-line. What address did you use for DL when PCS away from Florida?


If stationed in Texas PCS or TDY

For Our Troops​


TxDMV appreciates your service to our country and are proud to be able to provide special services to military personnel, veterans, and their families.
We have grouped information, forms and links together based on what your needs are, for example, requirements for new residents, the process for transferring your vehicle, determining inspection requirements, applying for military plates, etc.
If you are a Non-resident serving in Texas, you are allowed, but not required, to register your vehicle with your local county tax office.
If you have any questions or would like additional help with your motor vehicle needs, call 1-888-DMV-GOTX or email us at AskDMV@TxDMV.gov.
No, I was able to renew through the mail.
 
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