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How Do You Get an Access Pass for National Parks?

Learn who qualifies for the free lifetime Access Pass, what disability documentation is needed, and how to apply online, by mail, or in person.

Direct answer

To get an Access Pass for national parks, you must be a U.S. citizen or resident with a medically determined permanent disability that limits one or more major life activities. The pass is free and lifetime, but online or mail orders can include processing and handling fees. You can apply online through USGS, by mail, or in person at a participating federal recreation site with proper ID and disability documentation.

U.S. citizen or resident + permanent disability documentation + application path = Access Pass

Access Pass proof and paths

Identity and residency

Driver's license, passport, green card, birth certificate, or similar proof

Must be for the passholder

Disability documentation

Physician, federal agency, or state agency documentation

Placards alone may not be enough

Online order

Upload ID and proof

Adds processing and handling fees

Mail order

Paper application plus documents

Transit time varies

In-person issue

Bring documents to a participating site

Call ahead to confirm pass issuance

The disability does not have to be rated at 100%

USGS says the Access Pass is based on a medically determined permanent disability that limits one or more major life activities, not on a specific 100% disability rating.

Apply for the Access Pass

  1. 1Confirm the passholder is a U.S. citizen or resident.
  2. 2Gather ID in the passholder's name.
  3. 3Gather documentation of a medically determined permanent disability.
  4. 4Choose online, mail, or in-person application based on timing.
  5. 5Bring the pass and ID when using it at participating federal recreation sites.

FAQ

Who qualifies for the Access Pass?

U.S. citizens or residents with a medically determined permanent disability that limits one or more major life activities can qualify for the Access Pass.

Does the Access Pass require a 100% disability rating?

No. USGS says the disability does not have to be 100%, but it must be permanent and limit one or more major life activities.

Can a child get an Access Pass?

Yes. USGS says there is no age requirement, but the ID and disability documentation must be for the person receiving the pass.

Sources & method

We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.