How Do You Get a Military Pass for National Parks?
Find out who qualifies for the free military national park pass, the difference between annual and lifetime versions, and what proof is required.
To get a military pass for national parks, use the America the Beautiful military pass path that matches your status. Current U.S. military members and dependents can qualify for the free Military Annual Pass. Veterans and Gold Star Family members can qualify for the free Military Lifetime Pass. You may need status documentation, and online USGS orders can include processing or handling fees.
Military pass options
Current U.S. military
Military Annual Pass
Use accepted current military identification
Current dependent
Military Annual Pass
Dependent status must qualify
Veteran
Military Lifetime Pass
Use accepted veteran documentation
Gold Star Family member
Military Lifetime Pass
Self-certification or voucher path may apply
Disabled veteran
Consider Access Pass too
Permanent-disability proof may qualify for Access Pass
Annual and lifetime military passes serve different groups
USGS distinguishes the Military Annual Pass for current military members and dependents from the Military Lifetime Pass for veterans and Gold Star Family members. Pick the path that matches the applicant's status.
Get the military pass
- 1Identify whether the applicant is current military, dependent, veteran, or Gold Star Family.
- 2Choose the Military Annual or Military Lifetime Pass path.
- 3Gather accepted status documentation before applying or visiting a site.
- 4Use in-person issuance if you need the pass soon and a site issues that pass type.
- 5Bring the pass and valid identification when using it at participating federal recreation sites.
FAQ
Who qualifies for a military national park pass?
Current U.S. military members and dependents can qualify for the Military Annual Pass. Veterans and Gold Star Family members can qualify for the Military Lifetime Pass.
Is the military pass free?
The pass itself is free for eligible people, but online USGS orders can include processing, shipping, or handling fees. In-person issuance can avoid some order fees.
Can disabled veterans use the Access Pass instead?
Yes. USGS says veterans with a medically determined permanent disability may qualify for the free lifetime Access Pass as well.
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.
- Entrance PassesNational Park Service · nps.govSupports current Military Annual and Military Lifetime pass eligibility, free pricing, and pass coverage.
- Military PassU.S. Geological Survey · store.usgs.govSupports current military, dependent, veteran, and Gold Star Family qualification paths, online fees, valid documentation, and annual versus lifetime distinction.