U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) – Yard Access Requirements
Posted: 9/1/2026
USNA announced today enhanced Yard access procedures that reflect the need for increased security given the current state of world affairs. The procedures described below specify identification (ID) card requirements and visitor screening measures at the gates.
This information sheet focuses on ID requirements so each reunion attendee can ensure in advance he/she carries an approved form of identification. A subsequent information sheet posted on the class website covering transportation will promulgate bus schedules to accommodate the inevitable access delays due to the Gate 1 screening procedures cited in the memo.
Note these procedures apply only to the Yard. Access procedures for the football game and tailgate at Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium are unchanged (electronic ticket, clear plastic bag/purse, container and bag screening).
The Academy’s memo is reprinted below in its entirety. Note the following important points:
· ID card requirements are listed in detail.
· Foreign nationals must complete vetting in advance.
· If needed, DBIDS applications must be submitted at least 3 weeks in advance. The reunion begins about five weeks after the date of this information sheet.
· The Visitor Control Center is now located in Halligan Hall (181 Wainwright Drive, the large building near Gate 8 adjacent to the baseball and softball fields).
· Attendees with a disability placard or license plate are permitted to drive into the Yard. All occupants of the car must have an approved ID.
The Reunion Committee will post updates to this information sheet as changes warrant.
Recent security enhancements at the U.S. Naval Academy require all visitors and reunion attendees to adhere to updated base access procedures. Please review the requirements below and plan accordingly.
General Access & Identification Requirements
· All visitors aged 18 and older must present a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID from one of the following approved categories:
o Department of War (DoW) Identification (these forms of ID grant access):
– Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard Military ID
– DoW Common Access Card (CAC)
– Retired Military ID
– DoW Civilian ID or Uniformed Services Dependent ID (USID)
o REAL ID-Compliant State ID (Only establishes identity for vetting or GPV access):
– REAL ID driver’s license or state ID card (look for the star symbol in the upper portion of the card)
o Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) (Only establishes identity for vetting or GPV access):
– Issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington
o U.S. Passports (Only establishes identity for vetting or GPV access):
– Valid U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card (Note: Non-U.S. passports are not accepted for standard entry; see Foreign National section below)
· Minors:
o Children and guests under the age of 18 do not require photo identification when accompanied by an adult who possesses valid, approved credentials.
o Military Dependents under 12 do not require an ID
· Foreign nationals (including international alumni, spouses, and Lawful Permanent Residents / Green Card holders) must complete advance vetting:
o Vetting Requirement: Pre-clearance and background vetting through NCIS via the Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS).
o Processing Timeline: Applications must be submitted at least 3 weeks prior to the event/visit date.
· How to Apply:
o Complete DBIDS pre-enrollment online at: https://dbids-global-enroll.dmdc.mil/preenrollui/#/landing-page.
o For detailed submission instructions and coordination, contact Wendy Owen at wendy.owen@usna.com.
o REAL ID Registration/ DBIDS Pass Issuance: Once vetting is approved, visitors will register their REAL ID or collect their DBIDS paper pass at the Visitor Control Center (VCC) located in Halligan Hall.
Bus & Group Arrivals
· Chartered buses and group transport must enter via Gate 1.
· All passengers must disembark and proceed through security screening at Gate 1 and present an approved form of identification and DBIDS pass, if applicable.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Entry & Driving Access
· Attendees with a valid state-issued disability placard or license plate are permitted to drive onto the Yard.
o Entry Requirements:
– The driver must possess a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
– All adult occupants (18+) must present an approved form of identification.
– All vehicles entering the Yard are subject to security search and inspection.
General Public Visitation (Touring & Sightseeing)
· The USNA regularly welcomes members of the general public for tours, museum visits, and sightseeing:
o Access Type: Pedestrian access only. No vehicular access is permitted for GPV.
o Authorized Use: This type of entry is strictly restricted to recreational touring, sightseeing, or public shopping/dining.
o Restrictions: This access pathway is not authorized for individuals conducting official business, vendors/contractors, or those attending closed special events (who must utilize the formal vetting procedures).
Construction Update: Gate 1 Pedestrian Access Control Point (ACP) & VCC
· Please be aware of major ongoing renovations to the Gate 1 pedestrian ACP and administrative offices:
o Pedestrian Screening Security Trailers:
– Temporary Security Trailers have been installed on the Gate 1 sidewalk to handle pedestrian vetting and base entry.
– Pedestrian Entry Hours: 0600 to 2000 daily (Monday–Sunday).
– Turnstiles remain operational 24/7 for credentialed personnel.
· Relocation of Visitor Control Center (VCC):
o All administrative VCC functions (including processing of DBIDS pre-enrollment, paper passes, and 5512 forms) have permanently shifted to Halligan Hall (located at the rear of the building via the accessible ramp).
o Operating Hours: Monday–Friday, 0700–1430 (Closed weekends and Federal Holidays).
· Parking: Dedicated 15-minute visitor parking is located behind Halligan Hall. Overflow parking is available in the Perry Circle lot across from Gate 8.
For further information, visit the USNA website: https://www.usna.edu/Visit/BaseAcce
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