Are you a military member wanting to host family or friends in your on-base house, or a civilian just trying to figure out how to get on a military base? If so, we have the answers!
Gaining access to a military installation for an unsponsored civilian can seem like an overwhelming task. Frankly, it’s not easy.
If you’re a current military member or military spouse looking to host a civilian on base, you can skip ahead. If you’re a civilian seeking entry, then keep reading! Your info is up first.
Can a Civilian Visit a Military Base?
Civilian access to a military installation requires proper identification, a legitimate reason for entry, and often a background check.
Something to keep in mind: Procedures can vary by base, so check with the installation for its specific base access rules.
Civilians typically need to be sponsored by a service member, have an appointment, work on the base as a contractor, or attend a special public event.
Reasons for Civilian Access
- Sponsorship: An active duty service member or authorized personnel can sponsor civilian guests to enter the installation. The military member is then responsible for the actions of that guest during their time on base.
- Official Business/Work: Contractors, vendors, or other workers with a legitimate business purpose can gain access.
- Public Events: Certain bases may offer public access for specific events, such as a museum, memorial, or special open house.
- Appointments: Access may be granted for pre-scheduled appointments at base facilities.
Identification and Security Procedures
Valid Identification: You will need a valid, government-issued identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a US passport.
Background Checks: All non-sponsored guests undergo a background check to ensure base security.
A federal background check is generally required for civilians to enter a military base without a sponsor. To initiate the process, you will need to apply for a visitor's pass at the base security office. They will initiate this check.
The check typically reviews your criminal history and other relevant databases to ensure base security. A criminal record, especially for felonies or specific misdemeanors, can disqualify you from entry.
It's always best to contact the specific military base you plan to visit in advance to confirm their policies and procedures.
Any of the following issues can cause you to be denied access to a base:
- If you have been forcibly removed from a military base in the past and asked not to return.
- If you are a convicted felon currently on parole.
- If you attempt to enter a base without proper authorization.
- If you have a history of gang affiliation.
- If you are a registered sex offender.
- If you have been barred from another U.S. Military base.
Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) Pre-Enrollment: Many bases require visitors to pre-enroll in the DBIDS system to generate an alphanumeric or QR code for quicker processing at the gate. This will significantly simplify the process for accessing a base.
Vehicle Requirements: If arriving by vehicle, you will need to provide proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a valid driver's license to bring your vehicle on base.
How to Gain Access to a Base
Contact the Base Directly: Check the base's official website or contact its visitor control center to confirm specific requirements and procedures before your visit.
Get Sponsored or Book an Event: Have a service member sponsor you or ensure you have a pre-booked reservation or ticket for a public event.
Pre-Enroll in DBIDS.
Arrive Prepared: Present your valid identification and any required digital pass or documentation at the visitor control center or gate.
Important Considerations
Base Policies Vary: Access requirements and procedures can differ from one base to another.
Follow Base Rules: Once on base, you must comply with all rules, including speed limits and photography restrictions.
If you were sponsored by a military member to get on base, then that military member may be held responsible for the civilian visitor’s actions.
What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a federally-compliant driver's license or identification card that meets specific security standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005.
Beginning on May 7, 2025, a REAL ID (or another acceptable ID like a U.S. passport) is now required to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities, such as military installations and nuclear power plants.
To get a REAL ID, you must visit your local license office in person, apply with original documents proving your identity, Social Security Number, and residency.
A standard driver's license does not meet these federal requirements.
Military Members Hosting Guests on Base
Yes, military members can host civilians on base by sponsoring their visit.
This normally requires completion of a Visitor Access Request (VAR) form from the base’s Visitor Control Center. Just like with unsponsored visitors, the civilian must undergo a background check before arrival.
Approved visitors will receive a visitor pass and must be accompanied by their sponsor, who will normally meet them at the gate for initial entry.
Essential documentation for the visitor includes a valid government-issued photo ID. This means a REAL ID-compliant ID or a passport.
If the civilian wishes to bring a vehicle on base, then they must have proof of registration, proof of insurance, and a valid driver’s license.
Steps to Sponsor a Civilian
Step 1: Sponsor the Visit
The service member must sponsor the civilian's visit and submit a VAR to the base's Visitor Control Center (VCC).
Step 2: Provide Information
The service member will need to provide the civilian's legal name, birthday, and REAL ID-compliant identification for a background check.
Step 3: Visitor Pre-Vetting
The base's VCC will conduct a background check, often a National Agency Check (NAC), to ensure the visitor isn't on any watchlists or has any other negative information that could bar them from entering the installation.
Step 4: Meet Visitor at the Gate
The sponsor can meet the visitor at the gate with the confirmed visitor pass, or the visitor can go directly to the VCC to pick up their approved pass if they didn't get one beforehand.
Step 5: Vehicle Information
If the civilian is driving, they will need a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance to enter the base
Making Military Base Access Simple & Secure
Whether you’re a civilian seeking to gain access to a base or a military member looking to sponsor a civilian guest, it is important that you start by contacting that installation’s VCC. Procedures for entering a base can vary by location.
We know they can seem daunting at first. However, after your second or third time visiting base or getting military base access for civilians you want to host, you’ll forget all about any anxiety you had before! After all, these rules are put in place to protect the military men and women who live and work on your local installation.
So, whether you’re a civilian seeking to gain access to a base or a military member looking to sponsor a civilian guest, it is important that you start by contacting that installation’s VCC. Procedures for entering a base can vary by location. Enjoy your visit and visitors!
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