Vehicle Decals to End

KINGS BAY, Ga (NNS) -- As of July 1, the Navy will no longer issue or use vehicle decals for base access, including Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay.

Vehicle decals were used to ensure vehicles on Navy installations complied with state requirements for vehicle registration and insurance. State programs have become more efficient, eliminating one of the main reasons for decals.

"After Sept. 11, 2001, security at all Department of Defense installations requires 100 percent identification checks of drivers at the installation gates," said Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Verlinde, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay security officer. "Subase Kings Bay has conducted 100 percent identification card checks for all personnel accessing the installation since Sept 2008. The use of vehicle decals is redundant since identification card checks are arguably more effective verifying the authority of an individual entering the base. Vehicle decals are a force protection vulnerability. They are easily counterfeited, moved from one car to another, or found in used-car parking lots. Other issues that helped change this policy were the expense and administrative burden of the program."

Elimination of the vehicle decal requirement will not eliminate the requirement for an individual to properly register and ensure their vehicle.

"All vehicles on Navy Installations must continue to be licensed, registered and insured in accordance with state and local laws," Verlinde said. "In addition, all Navy Installations will conduct random anti-terrorism checks. We will be conducting authorized administrative checks, similar to the way security departments conduct DUI checks. With this, we will be verifying the identification and to ensure the vehicle has a valid license, registration, and insurance."

For frequent visitors to installations requiring decals, the current decal may be left on the vehicle until the expiration date. Otherwise, it is recommended that the decal be removed.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy .