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A military base can feel like a whole new world as soon as you pass through the base gate. But first you have to get through the gate. Here’s what you need to know the first time you visit a military base.
My first military friend was a girl I met in high school. I was a civilian who had spent zero time thinking about the military for my first 16 years of life. When a new girl joined our class, I was fascinated to learn that she lived at a nearby military base. She invited me to visit her house, but told me I would have to stop at the gate so she could meet me and escort me onto the base.
She drove with us past brick buildings and houses that all looked the same. She said funny things like, “there’s the PX, I love shopping there. And that’s the Commissary.” I didn’t know what she was talking about, so it was a bewildering experience!
Now I can laugh at my teenage confusion. I have spent the past ten years living on military bases. Before that, we lived off-base in two other states. Base buildings and resources no longer confuse me and I have learned enough lingo to find my way around. Now my family and friends are the ones who are confused when they visit a military base!
When you first visit a military base, it may be when you attend a Homecoming ceremony to meet your service member after deployment. Or it could be when your military boyfriend lives in the barracks or your girlfriend invites you to visit her on base. Either way, there are some unique things you should know before your first visit to a military base.
How to visit a military base as a civilian
Most military bases have multiple gates, and each one has armed guards. To enter a military base, you must show your dependent ID card (if you are a military spouse) or have a military sponsor (your service member.) A service member can sponsor non-military guests on base. But they will need to either fill out a sponsorship form in advance or meet you in person at the gate.
- If you are the passenger in their car, you simply need a driver’s license. A military service member or spouse can sponsor one guest in their own vehicle, as long as that person has valid photo ID.
- To bring your own car on base, the service member will need to request a base pass, which should be done at least a week before you visit. They will need your full legal name, driver’s license number, address on driver’s license, and your birthday. The base Security department will do a background check.
A pass is temporary and can only be used during the dates listed. When you arrive at the gate, you will have to show your driver’s license, which the guards will scan to see if you have a pass listed in the system. Be prepared to also show car registration and up-to-date insurance, since they are allowed to ask for that too. If you are driving a rental car, you may show the rental car paperwork. - Your sponsor will need to be with you most of the time you are on base. You aren’t able to do much when you visit a military base without a sponsor or ID card.
- For additional questions, like visiting a base as a veteran or former military kid, who no longer has a military ID card, simply call the base Visitor Center in advance. They can give you up-to-date info on the current restrictions, what paperwork is required, and how to visit the base.
There is more encouraging and supportive advice for anyone new to military life in my book, Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses. This book contains short chapters you can “open when” you’re facing a specific challenge of military life–whether it’s your first time dating a service member, your first deployment, a military ball, or you are planning a military wedding! You can find the book on Amazon, purchase it directly from the publisher, or order an autographed copy here.
Here's what you need to know when you visit a military base for the first time: - how to get through the gate - rules about dress code and flag etiquette - what is the Exchange? Click To Tweet
Things to know when you first visit a military base:
- Dress code: Yes, there are dress code expectations when you visit a military base, even for visitors and guests. These are posted at the public buildings and offices. Generally: flip flops, belly shirts, workout attire, and baseball hats should not be worn inside. Some bases enforce the rules more than others, but it’s best to not wear anything too revealing if you will visit any base buildings.
- Flag ceremonies: Each morning on base, flags are raised at a short ceremony called Reveille (French for ‘wake up.’) If you are outside and hear bugle music, you should stop walking and face the nearest flag pole. Once the flag is raised, there is a quick bugle blast, then everyone is free to move again. The flags are all taken down at sunset, at a similar quick ceremony called Taps or Retreat. The same rules of respect apply.
- Exchange: The Army and Marines call it a PX (Post Exchange), the Air Force calls it a BX (Base Exchange), and the Navy calls it an NEX (Navy Exchange). But it’s all the same–a department store located on base. This is similar to a Kohl’s or Target. You can find home goods, furniture, décor, clothing, shoes, gifts, etc. To purchase anything, you or your service member must show a military ID.
- Base Housing: On some bases, housing areas are segregated by rank or number of children. The housing is for service members who are married. Many of the houses will look similar because they were all built at the same time. Some neighborhoods look like apartments, while others have single family homes.
- Gas Stations: All military bases have at least one gas station. The prices there are always slightly lower than they are off base because the military negotiates unique prices with its vendors. You typically need to show a military ID card to pay.
- Commissary: The Commissary is the base grocery store. Commissaries sell food tax-free, so it is usually a little cheaper than stores off base (depending where you live.) You need to wait in one long line to check out, and you must show a military ID card when you pay.
- Gyms: Military bases have excellent gyms which are available to all service members and their families. There is usually at least one main gym with great equipment and amenities, then there are smaller gyms located throughout base housing. Access is free, but you will need an ID card or your sponsor with you.
- Movie Theatre: Each base has its own movie theatre, and it is WAY cheaper than theatres off base! Tickets are often $3 or $4, and the movies are new releases that are selected for their popularity in the young military community. Before each movie, the National Anthem plays.
- Bowling Alley: Bases usually have a bowling alley too. There are bowling leagues, Family Nights, birthday parties, and teen nights. It’s a fun place to gather with friends on a weekend.
- Chapels: The base chapel can be used for multiple religious services, and there are usually chaplains from several different religious backgrounds. Typical services include Catholic, Protestant, Gospel, Orthodox, Jewish, Latter-day Saints, and sometimes Muslim. A chaplain is also trained as a counsellor, so you can talk to them about all kinds of topics–marriage and divorce, anxiety, mental health, or abuse.
- Hospital or Clinic: A base hospital serves all military families. Tricare health insurance covers visits to the base hospital for service members and ID card holders. If you do not have an ID, go off-base to an Urgent Care center or Emergency Room for any medical emergencies.
- ITT Office: ITT stands for Information, Tickets, and Tours. They provide tickets to local attractions and events at a discounted rate for military members and families. If you are going to any show or amusement park, you can save money by getting tickets through them.
- Bank: If you need an ATM, you can find some on base for local banks or for military banks like the Navy Federal Credit Union.
- Family Center/ Community Activities: The military has an amazing amount of programs to support families. And most of them are completely free! There are classes to help you before, during, or after deployments. Community Services offers annual events to celebrate holidays, and they sometimes host guest concerts on base. You can find these events advertised on the base website.
Whether you first visit a military base for a day or a week, I hope you have a great visit and aren’t intimidated by the military world!
I just found your blog and hope you may be able to help me. My husband’s job just got contract for erosion control at the Little Rock Air Force Base, but we are unsure if he will be able to enter the base. He is a convicted felon, currently on parole. His company isn’t even sure if he can get the clearance to work there (non-violent, no current warrants). If you have any tips, I would greatly appreciate any advice. Thank you so much.
I’m sorry, but the base gate guards require a background check before letting anyone on base, and a felon on parole would not be allowed access to the base. In some cases, an exception would be made if a sponsor with a valid military ID completed the paperwork for him and escorted him onto base as their guest. But he would not be allowed to drive through the gate on his own, even with a work contract. His company should probably contact the specific base for more details.
Does the soldier have to pay when requesting a pass for their girlfriend ??
No, there is no fee to request a base pass.
Me and my family are coming to Virginia beach on 8-14-20 through 8-18-20.i want to bring them to the base,i was stationed on the USS IOWA BB61 for 6 years then I went to sima Norfolk for 4 more years.would love to be able to show them around what do I need to do to get a pass or whatever I need. thank you.
My boyfriend asked me for the license, he says to scan that is true, he needs to do that before I go to the base and he also got me a teas with the name ID. Please tell me if everything is true
I’m not sure I understand your question. Yes, if he is getting you a visitor pass, it’s true he will need your driver’s license number in advance because the base does a background check. But they don’t need a scan of the license, and you won’t be able to get a dependent ID card until you are legally married. Until then, a guest pass will get you on and off base.
Can you enter with a mexico passaport ?
I don’t think so. But I think you can use a Mexican passport as your photo ID from the pass/visitor center to get a temporary visitor pass– if permitted at the base you are visiting.
Do. I have to pay a fee to visit a boyfriend on his military base. Or am I being scammed.please advise.
No, there should not be a fee to visit a military base or request a visitor pass. It is a paperwork process, but I’m not aware of any place that charges people to visit. Definitely pay attention and get more information, because that could be a scam.
I’m a 6 year Navy veteran 1980-1986 did my duty on 32nd Street navel base San Diego and long Beach. I’m also a 30 year retired police officer. My wife and I will be celebrating our 33rd wedding anniversary February 20th in San Diego. I would love to take my wife onto the navel base would that be possible???
My boyfriend is doing the same did you find out about this
Hi I just want to know how can I get a sponsor membership on base so I can be able to go on the gym on base?? How do I get a form?
Hi Jose, I’m not sure I understand your request. Typically, the gyms on base are only for active duty members and dependents who have ID cards. During the pandemic, many locations restricted dependents or family members, and only allowed active duty to access the gyms.
If you requested a visitor pass to access the base, you would still need someone with a valid ID card to go with you the gym, and then you would only be allowed to enter if their current guest policies permit this. (You would have to check with the gym on your local base for those details. Just call them.) I’m not aware of any visitor pass that would specifically allow gym access without your sponsor present.
Me and my family are coming to Virginia beach on 8-14-20 through 8-18-20.i want to bring them to the base,i was stationed on the USS IOWA BB61 for 6 years then I went to sima Norfolk for 4 more years.would love to be able to show them around what do I need to do to get a pass or whatever I need. thank you.
Sure, here is the Norfolk page, with instructions on how to apply for a day pass or to visit the base without a military ID: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrma/installations/ns_norfolk/om/pass_and_id.html
I called base pass ID they told me I could get on base with my va med card but to get my family with me I would need a sponsor.also recommended the tour bus.there are a couple places I would like to go and spend a little time at the USS Iowa memorial.at Iowa point I dont no any one down there have not been there since 1997.
My boyfriend is stationed at Fort Lee. He says I have to pay to visit him for the day. Is this true or am I being scammed?
That is false, there’s no charge for a visitor pass on base. So unless he means you need to pay for gas and such, then there is something else happening there.
are hotels on lackland air force base open everyday?
I don’t know at the moment. You could call the base hotel for details.
Asking for a friend… Her bf lives on base but wants to get her a temporary pass. She has a felony for a non violent/drug crime and was convicted 7 years ago. Will they allow her on the base?
Probably not. They do a background check for the pass, and a felony is a flag that typically prevents getting a pass. He could ask the gate guards about it, and if there is any time limit to the crimes popping up in the system. But my guess is that they would deny her a pass.
Hi, how are you, please? I’m talking to a military man for almost a year. I don’t know him from a photo and he wants me to go to the base but he says I have to do a self-registration and Id me to register. Please tell me if it’s true.
If someone I know that isnt a US Citizen is visiting could I sign them in on base
I think that is allowed, but you should contact the base Pass and ID center for the specific base to get the regulations.
My husband was a 100% disabled veteran due to combat in Vietnam. While traveling, we have visited several bases over the years for shopping, sickness, lodging etc, but our home base is NAS. JAX in Jacksonville FL. We’ve always been together to renew our IDs, but he passed away on Sept 12, 2020, and I need to know how to get my I’D renewed (what forms I need to
bring) and since decals aren’t needed anymore at NAS how do I get my car registered. What forms do I need to bring!!
THANKS so much for your help. I STILL shop at exchange and commissary and get some meds at the pharmacy!! 🙏🇺🇸
Hi Rebecca, I’m sorry to hear of your husband’s passing last year. You should still qualify for those benefits, but I recommend you contact the NAS JAX Pass and ID office to determine what paperwork they would need now. You should be able to call them ahead of time: 904-542-3633. I’m not sure what they would request in this case.
Can my boyfriend stay with me at an on base hotel during the week even if he has school?
It depends on the rules of his particular school, so that’s a question he would have to run by his chain of command.
My friend and I are 17. She is a military dependent with an ID not living on base. We want to go to the Tim Hortons on base. She doesn’t drive so we would have my car. Can she get me on base?
That depends on the gate guards. Be sure you have your car registration and insurance paperwork with you and up to date. They may ask you to stop by the visitor center and register before continuing on to the base.
Hey there!! I am flying 15 hours to the base that my hubby and kids will have to complete, so I was wondering what is the Sponsorship form number At the bottom left of the paper? My brother in law will be traveling with me because I have two kids, and my husbands higher ups don’t know what form this is without a number!
Hey, I’ve visiting a friend you works as a marine in Cali and i’m visiting him in a few weeks. I was wondering if i’d be able to stay on base with him and how ?
Hi, thanks for reading! You can’t stay with him in the barracks, but if he lives in base housing you can. He would sponsor you as a guest. You should provide him your driver’s license number and address, and then he can go to the Pass and ID office in advance to get you a pass.
Hello, I want to go to see my boyfriend, I have to pay for a gate fee to see a boyfriend inside base?
No, there’s no fee! You just have to bring your driver’s license or valid ID. He can also meet you at the gate and escort you on.
Hello! Due to the coronavirus going on now, is it possible that me as a Marine could go onto a Army base? My girlfriend is on one (Fort Lee) and wanted to visit her if possible, would they let me in?
Yes, they would let you on with military ID. In most places, they are doing Coronavirus screenings to enter buildings, but not at the base gate. Once you are there, you should follow base policy about wearing masks, etc.
Hi,
I would like to visit my son for a week during the week of Christmas. He has a housing on base. Would my husband and I be allowed to enter the base to stay with him?
Yes, you can usually visit base housing up to 30 days without a pass.
To get through the gate, there are 2 options.
1. He can contact the base visitor center a few weeks in advance and request a guest pass from his chain of command. He will need your driver’s license number for the paperwork. This would let you drive through the gate without him during your stay.
2. No pass, he can meet you at the gate and escort you through each time, or be in the vehicle with you. He will show his military ID and the Guards will let you both through, even if your vehicle is following his.
I don’t drive, and my AF ID expires next month. My husband, retired AF, is in assisted living memory care. How do I get on base (Offutt) to renew my ID? Can my friend (non military) drive me on base?
Yes, if you are in the car with a valid ID, the driver does not need to have a military ID. You are essentially escorting them onto base, even though they are driving you. Then you can access the ID center to update your ID card.
If an officer sponsors me on base, do I get in/out privileges without him? I want to explore the city while he attends a conference in base. We are staying in a hotel on base.
Yes, as long as he goes to the visitor center and gets you a pass. This will include your name and driver’s license number, and the specific dates of your visit. He can do it before you arrive, or just go with you when you first get there. Once you have a pass, you can go through the gate on your own. Otherwise, you need to be in the vehicle with him and get in with his ID card.
I have a guest that has a valid Mexican Consulate ID I just wanted to know if he is eligible to go in to the base for one day as a guest inside the military?
I’m not sure about that particular situation. I would recommend asking a gate guard or calling that base Pass and ID office to check.
Hi! Omg thank you for this post. My boyfriend is doing his AIT training at Fort Rucker and wants me to come visit and book a hotel on base. They were told they can’t leave base due to the neighboring cities having a rise in cases. Would that be possible? If so what would I need? I checked and they mentioned something about a visitor access card. I’m so confused. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I have a houseguest pass. My bff is having a baby at tripler and im supposed to bring her mother in law to visit. Does she have to get a day pass or will my pass cover her.
Hmm, if she is the passenger and has a valid ID (driver’s license) she should be ok on your pass. But it would be best to check with the gate guards ahead of time.
If you don’t want someone visiting you while you live on base can you or their spouse deny the person a pass? Long story short my husband just joined the Army and we dont get along with some of his family and we dont want certain people to visit.
Yes, I suppose you can do that. I mean, civilians can’t get on base without a sponsor. But I would recommend he talk to them about it first and use that as a last resort.
Met an army guy says he needs money for gate fee in order to leave bsse to come visit me, true or scammer ?
That’s a scam. There’s no gate fee, and it doesn’t cost service members anything to leave base.
My bf is transferring to a base in the state I live in. He says I need to give him a picture of front and if my ID and social security card, to make sure I’m me.
That is not true. To get a base visitor pass they do need identification, but a driver’s license number will work fine for the paperwork. They could also request your Social Security number, but should not need to photocopy the card. Have you met him in person before? Or is it possible he is an online scammer who may be trying to steal your identity?
Hi I want to visit my boyfriend at A School and the only hotels are on base how would I go about making him, my sponsor?
If he is not able to apply for your pass ahead of time (he would need your address and driver’s license number and to complete paperwork at the Pass/ID Office), then he could always meet you at the base gate and use his military ID to escort you onto base. Military ID holders are allowed to bring 1 guest onto the base. You don’t need a pass then, but you should be prepared to show your driver’s license if the gate guard requests it.
Does he have to stay with me at the hotel?
He doesn’t have to, no. He may need to be there to check you in initially, but it is up to the unit leadership when he gets time off and where he is allowed to stay during that time.
I lost my new I’d and can’t get an earlier appointment at DMV but I have a cleaning job at a base in DC. I have all paperwork and an old expired id.Can I use it with birth certificate and social security card?
It will honestly depend on the gate guards and the current security levels at that base. Typically, they would ask you to pull into the visitor lane and go into the visitor center to show your paperwork. But with Coronavirus, I’m not sure if all visitor centers are operating full time. So you will just have to try and see what they say at the gate.
Hey! I am a military dependent (parents are in Military) and I was wondering if I can bring my friend onto base. I am driving my friend so all my friend has to do is show her drivers license, correct?
Yes as long as you have your dependent ID you should be fine to escort 1 friend on base in your own car.
Hi
Is the base open for visitors to go in?
Hi, I’m not sure which base you mean. But yes, most military bases are open and have procedures for visitors, as described in the article. However, COVID restrictions mean that some bases have increased security right now. So it’s best to call the base Visitor Center or visit their website before planning to visit.
Hello, I have visited the Hale Koa Resort in Hawaii with a military friend at the time. Can civilians be sponsored by a military service man and stay at military installation without the service man being present?
That hotel is a DoD resort, not a military installation. Yes, the service member needs to make the reservation and sign you in, because rooms are for military members and guests only. But once they sign you in I believe you can stay there without them.
Hi I’m not sure whether rules change for US Military serving in the UK or not or whether the rules are different if it regards MP’s but I have never dated anyone in the military before and I am looking for some help with regards to visiting the barracks he is currently stationed at.
He is an MP stationed at barracks in the UK currently, and I wondered whether I can visit him using the same rules re sponsors etc in your blog or whether things would be different. He has mentioned me talking to his Commanding Officer though.
Any help would be gratefully received.
Rules can vary for different countries, depending on the local agreement with the American government. It would be best to follow your boyfriend’s directions and speak to the CO or the gate guards at that particular base.
Also, getting on base is one thing. Visiting the barracks is an entirely different set of rules and restrictions. So follow the directions they give you so you don’t get him in trouble.
I’m going to pick my son up for leave. I know I need my ID and car info (insurance/registration) but do I need any paperwork my 2yr old daughter?
No, you should not need any extra paperwork for a young child. They are covered under your pass.
Hello, please, I have a question, I am talking to someone, he says that he is in Turkey at the military base and that he is a detective from the CIA and that in order to return he needs money because his boss does not pay you for the return flight, please I want to see if that’s true. that he can’t use his money until he doesn’t use it Only when he is usa 🇺🇸
Do people with dependent military id’s still go through the same background checks to get on base?
Well, people applying for a dependent ID turn in all the paperwork you would usually need to get a pass on base, plus extra. So the background check is done when they initially apply for the ID. Then it doesn’t need to occur each time they go through the gate
I am a retired army 1sg and I want to take my daughter and husband on to Camp Pendleton in my car. Will I be able to, also I will coming from New Mexico. Do I still get a pass 1 week ahead of time. Years ago it wasn’t that hard to get on base, why so hard now?
If you still have a retired military ID card, it should be no problem to just drive on. Without an ID card it would be wise to request a pass ahead of time. Your daughter would just need a legal form of ID like a driver’s license. Sometimes they ask for it, but not always. I just give people the background for days of security check so they won’t be turned away or caught by surprise.
I have my ID, What about the daughter’s husband going in too. Can I take my small dog in also who is ceritfy as a emotional support animal fo PTSD reasons (he also has a ID) Thanks
The dog should be fine. You would only need the service animal paperwork to get into certain buildings on base.
Anyone in the car should have a valid form of ID (like a driver’s license). That is usually all that is needed if you have your retired military ID card.
If my dad is a retired MP, can he sponsor me to visit my son at 29 Palms? My son is at MOS school and I didn’t even get to see him graduate 😢
Sure, as long as he still has a valid form of military ID, the veteran version is fine. Congrats to your son!
Thanks alot it will ease my mind.
Hi I have a boyfriend who is in the military and I need a pass to go see him. Where should I go to obtain one and how long does it take to get it? What information is needed? How long is the pass good for?
I’ve a friend in the Army. He’s stationed in Florida. He wants me to come and visit him. As I was getting ready to call the airline to make arrangements for my flight, he texted me that they’re asking him to pay 300.00 dollar’s so I can stay with him on base. Is this true? It just doesn’t seem right. This just sounds fishy.
Have you ever met him before or seen him in video calls? Or is it possible he is part of the internet scam where people pose as service members and ask for money?
Because no, there is no fee to stay with someone, and visitors are not allowed in the barracks at all. There is an Inn or Lodge type of motel on most military bases, and civilians can stay there if a service member makes the reservations. They are slightly cheaper than a regular hotel. But then you would need to go through the gate by yourself, so people usually make their guests reservations off base.
So yeah, it sounds fishy and I would definitely ask more before doing anything!
Hi. I’m looking to visit my boyfriend in Japan. Am I able to make the reservation to stay at the hotel on camp fuji with him?
My wife and I have a friend whose husband is on deployment and she lives on base with her three children. It sounds like his deployment is going to last much longer than first expected and she is not coping well. Is their a way for local civilians to get a pass to check on them or help them out when needed, or does she just have to meet us at the gate every time?
Yes, you can stop by the Visitor Center near the gate and request a temporary pass. They may ask for her information to be on it the first time, but it can have a time limit that extends for several months before it needs to be renewed. After receiving the pass, you can go through the gate without her.
Thank you for your advise. Had no problem going onto Camp Pendelton with just showing my Retired I.D. did not ask my daughter for I.D. They also showed me respect due my Rank.
Wonderful, glad you had a good visit!
Im trying to get my family on base to stay at the navy lodge in lemoore. Can i escort my father, mother and brother on base? With no questions asked? Or do i need to submit for sponsorship since there is more than 1? I hopefully want to be able to just drive them on. Any help would be nice
You should be able to escort them all. However, the base guards will most likely ask for ID for the other passengers in the vehicle. Doesn’t have to be a military ID, but they all should have their driver’s license with them.
I have newly got my spouse id card but i was wondering if i can use it to visit any base or does it have to be the one my husband is stationed at? We are currently in different countries and i haven’t used it to access the base here yet. Maybe i need someone to sign me in the first time?
The dependent ID card is good anywhere! It doesn’t have the base listed on it, so it works for all bases, Commissaries, PX stores, etc.
Hi I am currently dating a guy in the Air Force. We have been together all through high school and left after graduation for boot camp. Now that he is at a base I want to visit. I am 17 will it be an issue to visit him without an adult?
Age shouldn’t be a problem. Just have your driver’s license or other valid ID, and follow the instructions in the article. He can escort you on as his guest too.
What do I need to have a pass to visit a friend that I am meeting online and I want to know how I can really register for a pass because he is asking me to take a selfie and register in Id want to see if it is ok please
First time visiting our son. He is single and lives in a dorm. Are parents allowed to sleep in their dorm for a 4 days visit? If so, what does he needs to do and how long it takes to process the approval? Can we go in and out of base without him?
Thanks
Is he at a military academy? No, parents can’t stay in those dorms. If he is on a regular base they are called barracks. Visitors are not allowed overnight in the barracks either.
There will be a military Inn or Lodge on base where he can make you a reservation at a discount rate. Or you can stay off base at a regular hotel or motel.
If my mom has a card for base and she wants to bring me as her plus one can we bring my children too the are 11, 4 and 2? For do we need to get a visitors pass for the kids?
Minors should be able to accompany without any additional ID. So yes, kids are fine!
My boyfriend stationed in Stuttgard Germany he wants me to visit him,what do I need to get on the base? I don’t know if it’s the same rules in Germany and here in the states.
Thank you in advance
There will be additional requirements in Germany–they may want your passport number, for example. He should be able to learn the requirements for hosting a visitor from the security office before your visit so you can both make the right arrangements.
I’m 17 and my friend who’s in the marines wants me to visit him on base. Would I be able to get on base to see him?
You can be his guest, but he will need to be with you at the gate. He can either meet you there or drive your car.
Are minors allowed to visit military bases with ID and someone meeting you at the gate?
Yes, I believe so. Anyone with a military ID can escort guests on, even a military teen with dependent ID.
I want to visit and stay 1 month with a close friend and his children on the army base in Lawton, Oklahoma . I would like to know the procedure that is required of me to be approved of this request .
That’s Fort Sill, right? Call the Fort Sill visitor center and ask them what the current requirements are to get a visitor pass. The service member on base will be your sponsor, and you will probably need to fill out an application and show photo ID.
I’m 17 and is wanting to go visit my boyfriend on base. What do I need to bring? If I’m driving my brothers car with his insurance, can I get it into base? I don’t have a car yet, so I’m driving my brothers just to use to go there. Will there be any problems if I don’t have insurance, but my brother does on the car?
Well, you’ll definitely want your drivers license. Is your name on the vehicle insurance? If not, that might be a problem. Another option is for you to park outside the gate, your boyfriend meet you there, and then he can ride with you and show his military ID.
My name is sadly not on the vehicle insurance ): Does that mean I can’t bring the vehicle into base?
Without a pass or ID, it would be a problem. If your service member meets you and drives the vehicle on base with his ID, it would probably be better.
Hi, I plan a visit to a military base and I had my pass approved, however my driver license is being replaced and I have a temporary license, do you think the guards at the gate would take it? I would have the temporary license and another form of valid identification at hand.
That sounds right as long as you have a form of photo ID.
I don’t know what to do, he has all my information, he got my social security and he says that he gets everything at the military base, he has everything from me and since I don’t want to do what he wants, he sent me all my information, as he can do anything.
Me and my family are coming to Virginia beach on 8-14-20 through 8-18-20.i want to bring them to the base,i was stationed on the USS IOWA BB61 for 6 years then I went to sima Norfolk for 4 more years.would love to be able to show them around what do I need to do to get a pass or whatever I need. thank you.
My husband is at tech school at Lackland AFB, I just received my spouse Military ID today. I’m I able to go visit him this weekend with my new ID card?
Check with your husband first, since some schools have restrictions on weekend leave, and he may not be able to have visitors. But otherwise, yes! Your ID will get you onto base!
Can 21 year old or 17 year old with dependent card go on base without military parent? If so, can he bring a guest? Can he reserve lodging without primary military parent? Thanks!
Hi, thanks for reading this article! If they both have a dependent ID card, they should be able to go on base without problems. That is the same sage as many military spouses who go through the gate with a dependent ID card. I believe the 21-year-old could reserve lodging on base, but perhaps not the 17 year old since they are a minor. You can call the base lodging building ahead of time to ask and make reservations over the phone. They will just need to see an ID card at check-in.
If I’m coming from out of state, can the base member drive my car on base with me inside to get me in? We are wanting to do a surprise visit and are having her meet another friend from nearby at a local restaurant and we will be there but we are wanting to stay at the base members house for 3 days.
What a fun idea! Out of state tags are not a problem, and as long as she has her military ID it is fine. Just make sure the vehicle registration and insurance are up to date before trying to drive on. It isn’t always something they check, but if your tags are expired you could risk being held up at the gate.
How does someone get packages then from people other than usps? I’m talking food delivery and even idk maybe a Walmart or target box etc.
Many food delivery companies will meet you at the base gate, but they can’t deliver to housing unless they have a staff member with a military ID. In a military town though, it’s common to have someone on staff with base access–either a spouse or older dependent. Amazon and FedEx drivers usually have clearance to get on base and do their delivery route.
Hi , want to visit my daughter she live in a army base in Texas want to know if I could bring my dogs
Sure, just check with her first if dogs are allowed in her base housing. Some neighborhoods allow it, and others don’t.
Hi, I’m was thinking about moving on base . I’m a Federal employee but my sister is not and we are roommates. Would she have to be an employee/military as well
It might depend on the specific base and the housing area, so it’s worth asking the Housing office that question. But in order to get a long-term pass, yes, she would need to be on the military orders and/or have a dependent ID card.
Hello,
I’m getting ready to work DOD as a civilian. Is there a way to get my boyfriend a pass so he can eat lunch with me periodically? Or how would this work?
Good question! DoD will get a pass, but it is different from a military ID. I’m not sure whether the DoD civilian employees can bring guests on base. The best way to find out is to stop by the Visitors Center at the gate, or to call or visit their website. They should list the specific details for your base there.
Hello,
My boyfriend (Navy) would like to also have my son visit with me on base. My son is 11. Do minors need a form of ID in this situation since my boyfriend is the only one with a military ID? Thank you.
Minors do not typically have a legal form of ID, so you can bring him, and it is expected that you are responsible for him during the visit. Enjoy!
no, I’m married, we don’t talk on the phone and tex still don’t know him, I sent him my license in front and back and later today I receive a text with a company called ID.me that needs me to send it a selfish phone
If you have not met him in person, then please be careful. There are many scams to get information where people pretend to be a service member and ask for information like this. The site ID.me is sometimes used to verify a service member’s status so they can get a military discount at a store. But I don’t think it has anything to do with getting a pass to visit base. Do not send any more information. You can google the number for the base Pass and ID office, or their visitor center. Call them and speak to them directly about the rules.
thanks I feel the same I think he’s doing something else
I don’t know what to do, he has all my information, he got my social security and he says that he gets everything at the military base, he has everything from me and since I don’t want to do what he wants, he sent me all my information, as he can do anything.
Hi, I plan to have a group of friends over and I do live on a military base. My question is, is there a limit to how many people I can bring on base? I’ll be bringing 5 non military affiliated friends and we’ll all be in the same car. Also is there a cut off time to when you can sponsor people on base? I heard we’re only allowed to sponsor during working hours, but I don’t know what specific times those are.
Hi there, it’s best to check with your base visitor center and chain of command for those details. Usually, you can sponsor anyone in your car, and if you live in base housing there are not limited visiting hours. Guests can stay in base housing up to 30 days without a special pass.
However, security levels can change on base and that may restrict guest rules. When we lived overseas, we could only sponsor 2 visitors per military ID. But I haven’t heard the working hours restriction before.
Hello,
I will be getting married to a Sailor who lives in Marine base housing. If he applies for a pass for me (and my daughter), how long does it last? Would I be able to move in with him beforehand using that pass? Thanks!
If you aren’t married yet, a base visitor pass is good for 30 days in base housing. After that you will need to get it renewed. He would have to check with the local housing office for details. Marines E5 and below usually do not receive BAH or quality for base housing if they aren’t married, so if he falls in that category, then you wouldn’t be able to live together on base without the marriage certificate.
thank you for the guidance!
Thank you for this article, I found it very helpful!
Question for you – when my boyfriend is assigned his first PDS I plan on moving to that area, if I will be visiting him on base regularly will he have to meet me at the gate every single time or is there some easier/faster way to go about it? Additionally, would it make sense/be at all helpful to register my car under his name as well?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Kristin, glad this helped! Unfortunately, yes, you will always need a pass or to be escorted until you get a military dependent ID (after marriage). There are 2 options: either he can meet you and escort you each time, or he can request a visitor’s pass for you and renew it every 30 days. The visitor’s pass would let you travel through on your own.
Changing the car registration won’t have much impact at the gate. That is more of a financial decision, and you can choose which state you want it to be registered in. Some states have more flexibility for registrations for a service member, so you may benefit from having his name on your registration, but there are too many factors for me to discuss here.
Got it, thank you! I so appreciate you taking the time to give advice for us newbies to the military lifestyle (:
Have a wonderful week!
You’re welcome! You too!
hi my boyfriend is a marine and i was wondering if you know if i can stay in one of the hotels on base of i need to find a hotel off base
It’s best to get a hotel off base. Only he can make the reservation on base, and he would have to be there in person to check you on and out, I believe. He would also have to escort you from the gate, and anywhere else you went on base. If it’s for a weekend and he has libbo to leave base, most Marines prefer to stay at a hotel on town.
Hi, my boyfriend and I are planning for me to go to visit him during my spring break, but I have my doubts if I am able to go since I’m 17 barely turning 18 this summer. Last time I went to see him at his base I went with his family, so there was no problem with me being underage since they didn’t ask for any identification or anything like that. Do you think it would be a problem if I went alone?
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Hey my boyfriend is stationed in Germany … I live in Atlanta I never been outside of the country .. I don’t even have a passport 😏 I was wondering what do I do … I really wanna go see him … he there for 4 years he only been there for 6 months thought … he live on base with a roommate… will I be able to stay there I will only be visiting for 3 days … do I have to get a hotel … I heard the hotels are far from the base sooo how will I get there … PLSSSS HELP
So yes, you will need a passport, and he would have to meet you to escort you onto the base. There is probably a military inn (motel) on the base, but the service member has to make the reservation and check you in. If there are no rooms available there, you will have to stay off base at a regular hotel and use a taxi to get around.
So the taxi can drive on base or will we have to wait at the gate ? And if there is no hotel on base will he be able to leave to go with me to a hotel
Taxis cannot go on base unless the driver has permission. In foreign countries, it is likely the taxi could only pick you up or drop off at the gate. Whether the service member can meet you in town or stay off base depends on his particular unit. So he would know those answers better than I would.
And I’m planning on renting a car could it go on base as well
The rental car isn’t a problem, but someone with the car needs to have a military ID. So your service member would need to drive with you or meet you at the gate to escort you on base.
What if I’m just picking them up
Hi. My question is on appearance, my plate tags appear to be expired. However, it’s because the were sent to my old address accidentally. I have paid for them so they are up to date. Now I’ve went to apply for a copy of my new registration and I’m being told there’s a hold for nonpayment of tolls. Will this create an issue with me getting on base? I was going to Fort Leonard Wood, MO. They’ve been paid for and I can prove it. It shows that they are paid up until 2022. Thank you much!!
If you have paperwork that the car is registered, then you should be okay. But they may possibly stop you and ask questions. So print out everything you can and keep documents in the car, so you can hand them over immediately.
for basic training graduation/family day. do i need anything as a girlfriend when staying on base? i reserved a hotel on base but im not sure if we need to be married for me to actually stay on base
It depends on the base or hotel policy. Most hotels actually located on base can only be reserved by someone with a military ID (Service member or spouse.) If they didn’t ask for yours during registration, he may need to show his when you try to check in. It’s best to call and check ahead of time on the check in policy, so you’ll have the right documents or be able to wait for him if necessary.
I’m currently on TDY orders in Gulfport. Can my girlfriend stay with me in the Navy Lodge for 2 weeks if I get her a guest pass? Does the guest pass work for access to fitness facilities?
The guest pass is typically just for the gate. Other facilities on base would require your ID to escort her on. I believe the gym and pool check ID for everyone who comes in. If you already have a room in the Lodge, I believe she could join you, but I’m not sure about their official policy.
hey i live in atl and supposed to be visiting my bf who is stationed in Germany berlin i was wonderin is it best to get a hotel off base or stay on base with him? i was planning on renting a car so i wont be as lost lol is that i good idea … will they let me on base with a renter ? and i know i will have to have a covid test dne before i come back to georgia… i just dont want to be on the bus or train up there
Hello! If I’m riding in the car with both of my Military ID cardholder parents, do they run a background check on me? It would be for a graduation. Thanks!
They would ask for some type of ID (doesn’t have to be military). Background check probably wouldn’t be done since they have military ID and are escorting you on as their guest.
I need some information, Im suppose to be picking up my brother wife from the military neighborhood, Do I need ID to get into the gates? Im just picking up. Or does she need to show ID to get out of the base if I wait outside the gate, If I do wait outside will they ask why?
Yes, you would need ID to get on, but she does not need to show ID to leave the base. So it is probably easiest for her to meet you outside the gate. You cannot park right by the gate because it would usually block traffic and the guards may ask you to move. It’s best to wait in the Visitor Center parking lot, which is located near the main gate. You do not need an ID to wait there, because it is just before entering the base. Some bases have a separate line for “Visitors” marked at the gate entrance, and that goes to the parking lot instead of through the gate.
Thank you so much for all the information provided. My boyfriend is in the Navy and living in the Barracks in Gulfport. We aren’t planning on getting married just yet. I wanted to see if you have any advice as far as options for when I visit him. Is staying at the Navy Lodge or at a hotel off base the only option? Trying to find something a little more cost-effective. However, the Navy Lodge is decently priced. I was also looking into monthly rentals. I work from home so I have a lot of flexibility in my schedule. Appreciate ANYTHING you can share. It can be so confusing looking for this information when you aren’t married.
Thank you!!
I understand it can be frustrating. If he has friends who live off base, you could stay with them for a while.
There is also an Extended Stay hotel in Gulfport, a few miles from base. If you are visiting for a week or more, they have discounted packages compared to a regular hotel.
My sister is moving into Mayport base housing with her husband and my three nephews. They are living there for about a year while their off base home is being remodeled. I live in the area and am wondering how I might get to their house to babysit and help my sister without her having to come to the gate to get me? Her husband is often at work when I’d be going there and she can’t leave her special needs son to come get me. Getting him in and out of the car is also difficult.
Can she meet me at the visitors center or does it have to be her husband/the active military member? Can we get a sponsored pass that will last for the year? How long does the process of getting a pass usually take? Thanks so much!!
These are all questions for the Pass/ID office at Mayport, because they can give you the most specific answers. In general, I don’t think you can get a year-long pass. A temporary pass lasts about 30 days, then needs to be renewed. To get the temp pass, ask the Pass/ID office for an application, and have photo ID like your driver’s license. They will do a background check on you. If approved, you would be able to go through the gate driving your own vehicle and showing that pass. The service member would be your sponsor, but does not need to meet you at the gate. That would work best for your family– if the base is issuing those passes now.
I would like to enter a US base as a US citizen in Germany, I have no criminal background but I have no one to sponsor me into the base. My father is a Veteran in the US Army but he’s not in Germany and cannot sponsor me. However, is there any way I can enter the base regardless?
I’ve had questions like this before, so I think it is a somewhat common occurrence for the U.S. military bases in Germany. I recommend you look up info for the specific base Visitor Center or military Pass/ID office, so they can give you the best details. The procedures change sometimes for COVID restrictions or depending what type of documentation and paperwork you can provide. The Visitor Center should have the most up-to-date information.
Where can I find the website and contact information for the Visitor Center? (Specifically Shipton Kaserne). Thank you for the quick reply!
Here is the info from the installation access office at Shipron Kaserne:
https://home.army.mil/ansbach/index.php/my-fort/all-services/installation-access
Thank you for the info!
Hi I am 17 turning 18 in march and I have a boyfriend in the navy who is 19 turning 20 in march. He graduates from basic sometime in Feb 2022 and goes to school at the Pensacola base. When I go to visit him, am I aloud to stay for the weekend when he doesn’t have school? Is there a max days I can stay if we aren’t married? Or can I not stay the night with him on base at all? If I got a hotel room would he be able to stay with me off base? Can he leave base on the weekends?
Thank you!
Hi Erica, those decisions are all up to his chain of command. If he is given “leave” in between basic and school, he’s allowed to leave bade, stay in a hotel, and do what he wants. If he doesn’t have leave, he may be allowed to leave base during the day, but would have to check back in and sleep in the barracks, not off base. You’ll have to ask him about the specific rules he has to follow before you make any plans.
I have met someone online and they say you need a fee to get a sponsorship form? So I can come visit him on base. Is this true??
I have met someone online and they say they is a fee to get a sponsorship form??
To visit on base, is this true??
Thank you.
Not sure about the UK, but in the US that is false. There is no fee to get a visitor form. Just some paperwork to fill out.
Hey I think I’m pregnant but me and my boyfriend isn’t married will my child still be his dependent nd will they help pay for day care if we in the us nd they oversees
Hi, the answer is most likely no. There are cases where the service member can claim a baby as a dependent when they aren’t married, but that is only for healthcare (Tricare) benefits. If you aren’t married, you won’t have access to the base or base services, including the CDC, so you won’t be able to enroll the child until you are married and both you and the baby are dependents.
Also, childcare on base is not free. You still pay an hourly rate, it is just usually a little more affordable than private care off base. But it can be difficult to get a spot, because priority goes to couples who are dual-military or both already employed full-time.
Will My child get free daycare even if we not married
See my reply to your other comment above. No one gets free childcare, not even dual military couples. We all pay an hourly rate to use the CDC on base, and the available spaces are given out through a priority system, so no one is guaranteed daycare.
Hello so I am planning on moving with my bf in the army and I was wondering what do I all need to move I’m coming from ga and he is in Germany … I have a passport .. do I have to be vaccinated… and when moving do I just bring myself and forget everything behind … I have a car that is not payed for yet how does that work
Hi Brittany, it depends a little on where he is going TO. Is he moving to a base in Germany or in the States? Because you are not married yet, the military will not do anything to move you, they will only pay and help move the service member. So if you want to move yourself, you have to pay out of pocket. And if he has overseas orders, you have to research being unaccompanied or not having command sponsorship.
We do plan on getting married before I move in the US … he’s stationed in Germany for about 2 years now but he been in for 6 years …once we are married what is the next step he said he will be off base if I live with him … so wen married and able to move do I just pack my stuff and leave stuff behind .. will I be able to work I don’t know German …. But I do have. Car but it’s not payed off yet
OK, so you’re moving to Germany after marriage. The good news is you will have command sponsorship and access to the base. But if he is already there and does not have orders to do a PCS move, then you may be moving yourself. He should ask his chain of command about that. He may be able to request that your things get packed up and put in Long Term Storage, covered by the govt, but again this depends on him actually having PCS orders.
It is difficult to get a job while stationed overseas, but not impossible. There are laws under the SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) that limit the jobs available to Americans. There are english-speaking jobs available on base. Mostly working retail at the PX or childcare at the CDC.
If he has orders, they may include shipping one car overseas, so it is possible to have the govt ship your car, even if it isn’t completely paid off yet. But he should check with his Transportation Office for those details and to see if yours can be covered.
So Germany is his pcs change but he moved there 2 years ago so they won’t pay for me to come up there after marriage … okay got it thanks .. and and how often can you pcs !?
How often they PCS depends on a lot of things: his branch, specific job, rank, where the Army needs him, etc. But if he has already been there 2 years, he may be due to PCS soon!
I was recently awarded a 100% service connected disability rating through the VA. I have never used the rating to access any military base. However, I will be visiting my daughter near Mcguire AFB and thought I would go check out their commissary and PX. Will I be able to bring my daughter on to the base? She is a civiian with no military background
Thank you for all your sacrifices and years of service. I don’t think the VA rating has anything to do with base access. They are looking for a military ID or retiree ID card. With that ID, you can sometimes escort a non-military guest on base, as long as that person has valid ID like a driver’s license. But it depends on the individual base security levels. Commissary access should be open to retired military, but again you’ll need military ID at checkout.
Best bet is probably to call the Mcguire Visitor Center in advance and check on their current rules.
My son is looking at either going to the navy or military after school. Are we able to visit a base prior to him making the c=decision so that he can see more or less what it will be like?
Hey it’s me again , I am actually planning on going to visit my boyfriend in Germany possibly by October.. I offered to get my ticket, buy me a hotel , and also rent me a car. My boyfriend just suggested that I just get my ticket and he will handle the rest . I am a worried person and hate last min things and being left in the dark . Should I just get my hotel, and car to be on the safe side but then again I don’t want to waste all most 2k for everything. My worries are if I just get my ticket where will I stay . How will I get from the airport , or even get around to explore Germany . I’m from Georgia and I only speak English never been out the country in my life . I do have a passport book but will I need a visa to stay in Germany i will only be stay for A WEEK OR TWO , do we have to be married , is it smart to rent a car in the first place ughh HELPPPPP
I am an adult of an 83 year old Veteran Widow who lives about 60 miles to the nearest base in Florida. She is on a fixed income and finds getting prescriptions off base at a local pharmacy or on-line puts her in a hardship, so she drives to the base to get those scripts filled. She can no longer drive to the base and I usually take her and assist her with any shopping she wants to do there as well. Recently she became ill with COVID an couldn’t come with me to pick up her prescriptions and she was running out. We are currently hoping for a negative test so she can go. But it started me thinking about her future ability to come with me as she ages. I saw that Veterans can sponsor their adult children but wonder how long does the sponsorship last, what does it include and does the sponsor need to be with the person sponsored while they are on base? Is sponsorship the best option if she can’t make the trip in the future?
Hi Vicki, a few things to consider. First, even though she is seen on base for care, she doesn’t have to go in-person to the base pharmacy to get a refill. Some base pharmacies now have a delivery option, so definitely ask about that.
If she has to use an off-base pharmacy and pay co-pays, there are some types of supplemental insurance and low-cost options that will help cover those prescription prices at regular pharmacies.
Third, you asked about the possibility of sponsorship. The veteran can always escort/sponsor a guest in their own vehicle, if the veteran is in the vehicle and has their ID car. Since this may not always be possible for her, you could contact the local VA center to ask what they recommend. They might be able to help pick up prescriptions or to fulfill prescriptions through their pharmacies.
Finally, your mom could request a sponsorship form from the base Visitor Center that would allow you to get on base unaccompanied. These passes are only good for a short amount of time, need to be requested several weeks in advance, and require a background check using your driver’s license. Call the base visitor center to get the exact details, since every base has a slightly different procedure for this, especially when it is veterans.