The free lifetime pass, explained
Every US veteran can get a free lifetime pass to national parks and federal recreation lands. The pass is part of the America the Beautiful interagency pass program, and for veterans and Gold Star Family members it is free.
There is a common myth that you need a VA disability rating to qualify. You do not. For this benefit, "veteran" means anyone who served in the US Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves, regardless of disability status.
What the pass covers
The pass covers entrance fees and standard day-use amenity fees at federal recreation sites run by:
- National Park Service (NPS)
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- Bureau of Reclamation
- US Fish and Wildlife Service
- US Forest Service
- US Army Corps of Engineers
It does not cover camping, tours, special recreation permits, reservation fees, or concession fees. Those are charged separately even when you hold the pass.
Proving you are a veteran
Bring one of the following accepted IDs when you pick up a veteran pass in person:
- A Department of Defense (DoD) ID card
- A Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- A VA Veteran ID Card
- A state driver's license or ID card with a veteran designation
How to claim it
You have three options:
- In person, for free. Visit a participating federal recreation site, such as a national park entrance station, and ask for the Military Lifetime Pass. There is no charge in person.
- Free digital pass online. Get a free digital pass through Recreation.gov. You can also add a physical pass at checkout, which carries a $7.50 shipping fee.
- Mailed physical pass. Order a physical pass from the USGS Store for a $10 processing fee. Mailed passes are not digital and can take weeks to arrive.
Bring the pass with you when you visit.