How Do You Get a Senior Pass for National Parks?
Find out who qualifies for the National Parks Senior Pass, how much the annual and lifetime passes cost, and where to buy one.
To get a Senior Pass for national parks, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident age 62 or older and show proof of age and citizenship or residency. NPS lists the Senior Annual Pass at $20 and the Senior Lifetime Pass at $80. You can buy one in person at participating federal recreation sites or order a physical pass online from USGS with added fees and shipping time.
Senior pass options
Senior Annual Pass
$20
Trying the pass for one year
Senior Lifetime Pass
$80
Long-term federal recreation visits
Online USGS order
Pass price plus fees
When shipping time is acceptable
In-person purchase
Usually fastest for a near trip
Call ahead before traveling
Golden Age exchange
Free exchange in person
People with older honored passports
The eligible person must prove eligibility
Senior passes are not gift items. The person receiving the pass must show proof of age and citizenship or residency, and photo identification may be requested when using the pass.
Get the Senior Pass
- 1Confirm you are at least 62 and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- 2Decide between the annual and lifetime pass.
- 3Gather proof of age and citizenship or residency.
- 4Choose in-person purchase if your trip is close, or online/mail if timing allows.
- 5Bring the pass and photo ID when visiting participating federal recreation sites.
FAQ
Who qualifies for the senior national park pass?
U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62 or older qualify for the Senior Annual or Senior Lifetime America the Beautiful pass.
How much does the senior national park pass cost?
NPS lists the Senior Annual Pass at $20 and the Senior Lifetime Pass at $80. Online or mail orders can add processing, shipping, or handling fees.
Can I buy a senior pass as a gift?
No. NPS says senior passes may not be purchased as gifts because the eligible recipient must show proof of age and citizenship or residency.
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 Senior Annual and Senior Lifetime prices, eligibility, pass coverage, non-transferability, and gift-purchase limits.
- Annual Senior PassU.S. Geological Survey · store.usgs.govSupports online-order proof requirements, added processing and handling fees, shipping caveats, and in-person purchase guidance.